Ezra 2:55
The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Peruda,
Original Language Analysis
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
1 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
4 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
The children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
6 of 9
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
Solomon employed forced labor from conquered Canaanite populations (Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, Jebusites) for temple construction and other projects. Unlike the Nethinim (given to temple service), Solomon's servants performed royal and civil duties. Their descendants' inclusion in the return census shows full integration into post-exilic Judean society.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the voluntary return of Solomon's servants teach about finding identity in service rather than freedom from obligation?
- How does this passage challenge modern individualism's emphasis on autonomy over covenant community?
- In what ways are you a voluntary bondservant of Christ, embracing servanthood as freedom?
Analysis & Commentary
The children of Solomon's servants (בְּנֵי עַבְדֵי שְׁלֹמֹה)—A distinct category from Nethinim, these were descendants of Canaanite peoples Solomon subjected to forced labor (1 Kings 9:20-21). Sotai means "straying," Sophereth (סוֹפֶרֶת) means "scribe" or "numberer," and Peruda means "kernel" or "separated."
That avdei Shlomo (Solomon's slaves) maintained distinct identity for 500+ years is remarkable. Their voluntary return from exile—where they lived as free men—to resume temple service demonstrates covenant loyalty transcending their servile origins. Paul later applies this metaphor: Christians are "bondservants of Christ" (Romans 1:1), finding true freedom in voluntary service.