Ezra 2:67
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezra 2:67
67 Their camels, four hundred thirty and five; their asses, six thousand seven hundred and twenty.
Chapter Context
Ezra 2 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, wisdom, covenant. Written during the post-exilic return (c. 458-440 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The Persian Empire allowed religious freedom while maintaining political control.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-70: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezra and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezra 2:67
67 Their camels, four hundred thirty and five; their asses, six thousand seven hundred and twenty.
Analysis
The livestock continues: 'Their mules, two hundred forty and five.' Mules (crossbreed of horse and donkey) were valuable work animals. The possession of 245 mules demonstrates agricultural and transportation capacity. The accumulating inventory (horses, mules) shows God provided comprehensive resources for the enormous tasks ahead. Material provision accompanied spiritual calling.
Historical Context
Mules combined horses' strength with donkeys' sure-footedness, making them ideal for mountainous terrain and heavy work. The 245 mules would have been essential for construction work, agricultural labor, and transportation in Judah's hilly geography. Their cost and maintenance requirements show returning community had significant economic resources. Archaeological evidence confirms mules were valuable and relatively rare in the ancient Near East.
Reflection
- How does provision of work animals demonstrate that spiritual callings involve practical responsibilities requiring material resources?
- What does God's provision of specific tools (mules) for specific tasks teach about His attention to practical details?