Ezra 8:9

Authorized King James Version

Of the sons of Joab; Obadiah the son of Jehiel, and with him two hundred and eighteen males.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בֶּן
Of the sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
יוֹאָ֔ב
of Joab
joab, the name of three israelites
#3
עֹֽבַדְיָ֖ה
Obadiah
obadjah, the name of thirteen israelites
#4
בֶּן
Of the sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
יְחִיאֵ֑ל
of Jehiel
jechiel (or jechavel), the name of eight israelites
#6
וְעִמּ֕וֹ
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#7
מָאתַ֛יִם
and with him two hundred
a hundred; also as a multiplicative and a fraction
#8
וּשְׁמֹנָ֥ה
and eighteen
a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth
#9
עָשָׂ֖ר
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
#10
הַזְּכָרִֽים׃
males
properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezra, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ezra.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection