Ezra 2:57
The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Ami.
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 #:
3 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 #:
5 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
הַצְּבָיִ֖ים
of Pochereth of Zebaim
H6380
הַצְּבָיִ֖ים
of Pochereth of Zebaim
Strong's:
H6380
Word #:
7 of 9
pokereth-tsebajim, one of the 'servants of solomon'
Historical Context
This concludes the register of Solomon's servants returning from Babylon (verses 55-57). Though descended from subjugated peoples, they were fully integrated into post-exilic Judean society and temple service. The specificity of "Pochereth of Zebaim" (binder of gazelles) may indicate a specialized trade or location associated with this family.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your identity shift from "wavering" and "trapped" to "my people" illustrate your salvation story?
- What does God's adoption of former enemies and slaves as "my people" reveal about the gospel's reach?
- In what areas of life do you still act like a slave rather than embracing your identity as God's beloved child?
Analysis & Commentary
The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Ami—The final group of Solomon's servants. Shephatiah (שְׁפַטְיָה) means "Yahweh has judged," Hattil means "wavering" or "decaying," Pochereth of Zebaim (פֹּכֶרֶת צְבָיִים) means "binder of gazelles" or "trapper," and Ami (אָמִי) means "my people."
Read theologically, these names trace redemption's arc: "Yahweh has judged" the "wavering" and "trapped," declaring them "my people." This anticipates Hosea's prophecy reversed: "Lo-ammi" (not my people) becomes "Ammi" (my people) through God's covenant faithfulness (Hosea 1:9; 2:23). Peter applies this to Gentile Christians (1 Peter 2:10), showing that all believers are former slaves adopted as God's children.