Book of Nehemiah - Chapter 7 - Verse 21

When looking at the verse "The children of Ater of Hezekiah, ninety and eight," it is important to understand the context in which it is found. This verse is part of the genealogies listed in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which trace the lineage of the Israelites who returned from exile in Babylon to Jerusalem. In this specific verse, the focus is on the descendants of Ater and Hezekiah, who were among the leaders and heads of families that returned to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The mention of "ninety and eight" likely refers to the number of people in this particular family line, underscoring the importance of keeping track of lineage and heritage among the returning exiles. By including these specific names and numbers, the biblical authors sought to provide a comprehensive account of the families involved in the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple, thus emphasizing the continuity and legitimacy of the Israelite community in the post-exilic period.

The verse "The children of Ater of Hezekiah, ninety and eight." mentions a specific group of people in the lineage of Ater, who is linked to Hezekiah. In theological interpretation, the mention of these individuals is significant as it highlights the importance of genealogy in the Bible. The Bible often includes detailed genealogies to establish the historical context and lineage of key figures. In this case, Ater and Hezekiah are mentioned to provide a sense of continuity and connection to the past, emphasizing the importance of family and heritage in the biblical narrative. Word studies may focus on the meanings of the names Ater and Hezekiah, uncovering their significance in relation to the overall message of the verse. Additionally, the specific number "ninety and eight" could be studied for its symbolic significance in numerology or biblical context. Overall, this verse underscores the meticulous detail and rich symbolism found throughout the Bible, inviting readers to delve deeper into the text to uncover its layers of meaning and significance.