Ezra 8:10
And of the sons of Shelomith; the son of Josiphiah, and with him an hundred and threescore males.
Ezra 8:10 (KJV)
Context
The book of Ezra records the return of the Israelites from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 8 lists the families who traveled with Ezra back to the holy city. This verse names Shelomith, the son of Josiphiah, and reports that one hundred and sixty males from his family joined the journey. The number “threescore” means sixty, so “an hundred and threescore” is one hundred and sixty.
This list is part of a formal record of family heads and their male descendants. Such records verified that each family fulfilled its part in the return and helped organize the community for the long trip. The placement of this family between the larger group of Joab and the smaller group of Bebai shows that the families varied in size, yet each contributed to the whole mission.
Meaning
The verse emphasizes the identity of the family head and the exact number of men. This precision shows that God values order and faithful participation. Every person counted had a role in restoring worship in Jerusalem. The naming of Shelomith and his men highlights that God’s work advanced through the willing cooperation of many families, not through a single leader alone.
Biblical connections
Some translations, such as the ESV and CSB, include the phrase “of the sons of Bani” before Shelomith’s name, indicating that Shelomith was a descendant of Bani. The Wycliffe translation also includes this reference. Bani appears in other lists of returning exiles, such as Ezra 2:10, linking the returnees in Ezra 8 with those who had returned earlier. This connection shows continuity in God’s plan for His people.
Application
Ezra’s careful recording of names and numbers teaches the importance of remembering those who serve in God’s purposes. It honors the faithfulness of the returnees and models accountability and teamwork for believers today. The journey from Babylon to Jerusalem involved real dangers and logistical challenges, yet the people remained committed to rebuilding the temple and reestablishing proper worship.
Modern believers can learn that God’s purposes are often fulfilled through coordinated effort, humility, and a willingness to serve alongside others. Each person’s contribution, however small or large, matters in the community of faith.
Reflection
This verse invites readers to consider their own place in God’s work. Just as Shelomith’s family was counted and remembered, every believer’s service is known to God. The unity and obedience of the returning exiles encourage us to participate faithfully in the mission of the church, trusting that God sees and values our part.
