Ezra 2:67

Their camels, four hundred thirty and five; their asses, six thousand seven hundred and twenty.

Ezra 2:67 (KJV)

Context

The book of Ezra records the return of Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem after King Cyrus of Persia allowed them to go. Chapter 2 lists the people and their possessions, including the animals they brought. This verse gives the number of camels and donkeys that traveled with them. The list is part of a careful inventory, showing that the return was a community effort with each person and animal contributing to the restoration of worship in Jerusalem.

Meaning

Camels were used for long-distance travel and carrying heavy loads, while donkeys served as pack animals for shorter distances. The large numbers, 435 camels and 6,720 donkeys, show that the returning community had substantial resources. These animals were essential for the journey and for transporting belongings to Jerusalem. They also indicate the scale of the return and the practical means God provided for His people.

Biblical connections

This inventory parallels Nehemiah 7:69, which records similar numbers, confirming the historical reliability of the account. The detailed list emphasizes that God cares about the practical needs of His people, not only their spiritual restoration. The returning exiles were not destitute; they had substantial livestock, reflecting God’s provision and the fulfillment of His promise to restore His people.

Application

God’s provision often comes through ordinary means. The camels and donkeys may seem insignificant, but they were crucial for the exiles. This reminds us to recognize God’s faithfulness in the everyday resources He supplies, such as food, shelter, and transportation. We can trust that God equips us for the journeys He calls us to take.

Reflection

The specific numbers encourage trust in the accuracy of Scripture. They also show that the return was a community effort, with each animal contributing to the restoration of worship in Jerusalem. We can thank God for the small provisions that make our service to Him possible, and we can remember that He sees and records even the details of our daily lives.