Book of Nehemiah - Chapter 7 - Verse 14

Within the biblical context, the verse "The children of Zaccai, seven hundred and threescore" is found in the book of Ezra, chapter 2, verse 9. This verse is part of a list of the families and individuals who returned to Jerusalem from exile in Babylon. The mention of seven hundred and threescore (760) people from the family of Zaccai highlights the organized and detailed record-keeping of the Israelites during this historical period. Each family and individual listed in this passage played a crucial role in the restoration of the Jewish community and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The specific mention of Zaccai and the number of individuals from his family serves as a testament to the faithfulness and perseverance of these exiles who answered the call to return to their homeland despite the challenges they faced.

Within this verse, the mention of 'the children of Zaccai, seven hundred and threescore' may seem like a simple enumeration of people. However, when we delve deeper into the theological interpretation, we find that names in the Bible often hold symbolic meanings or significance. In this case, Zaccai means 'pure' or 'innocent' in Hebrew, which can shed light on the character or qualities of the descendants of Zaccai. The number seven hundred and threescore (which is 760) can also be examined for its symbolic meaning. Seven is a number often associated with completeness or perfection in the Bible, while sixty can be linked to abundance or a period of testing. Therefore, the mention of 760 descendants of Zaccai could be seen as a representation of a large, complete, and tested community of pure and innocent individuals. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of purity, innocence, and the completeness of God's people.