Ezra 2:21 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

The children of Bethlehem, an hundred twenty and three.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

The people from Bethlehem: 123.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

This verse records that 123 people from the town of Bethlehem returned from exile in Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem.

📚 Historical Context

This verse is part of a detailed census list of Jewish exiles who returned from Babylon to Jerusalem around 538 BC, after King Cyrus of Persia allowed them to go back and rebuild their temple. The list carefully records people by their family names and hometown origins to establish proper genealogies and land rights. Bethlehem, though a small town, was significant as the birthplace of King David and later Jesus Christ.

Explore Similar Verses

Matthew 2:6

And you, Bethlehem, in Judah — don't think you're small or forgotten among all the important cities in Judah. Because from your little town is going to come a Leader who will guide my people Israel.

Matthew 2:1

So Jesus was born in Bethlehem (in Judea) while Herod was king. And guess what? These wise men from way out east showed up in Jerusalem.

1 Chronicles 2:54

The descendants of Salma included the people of Bethlehem, the Netophathites, Ataroth, the family of Joab, half of the Manahethites, and the Zorites.

Ask the AI Assistant

Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.

Share or Save

📚 Historical Context

Explore Similar Verses

Ask the AI Assistant

Translation & Methodology Sources