Book of Ezra - Chapter 10 - Verse 21

The verse 'And of the sons of Harim; Maaseiah, and Elijah, and Shemaiah, and Jehiel, and Uzziah.' is found in the book of Ezra in the Old Testament. This verse is part of a list of names of the heads of families who returned from exile in Babylon to Jerusalem. The sons of Harim were one of the priestly families who were part of the exiles that were allowed to return to Jerusalem by King Cyrus of Persia. The names mentioned in this verse are significant because they represent the lineage and heritage of the Jewish people. Each name carries with it a history and a connection to the past, reminding the readers of the importance of ancestry and tradition in the Jewish faith. By listing these names, the verse emphasizes the unity and continuity of the Jewish people, despite the challenges they faced in exile. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the resilience and faithfulness of the Jewish community as they sought to rebuild their lives and worship in their ancestral homeland.

Within this verse, the mention of the sons of Harim - Maaseiah, Elijah, Shemaiah, Jehiel, and Uzziah - holds theological significance. In biblical genealogy and historical records, names often carry meanings that reflect the character or destiny of the individual. For example, Maaseiah means "work of God," Elijah means "my God is Yahweh," Shemaiah means "heard by God," Jehiel means "God lives," and Uzziah means "my strength is Yahweh." Each of these names conveys a message of faith, dependence on God, and acknowledgment of His sovereignty. The names of the sons of Harim serve not only as identifiers but also as affirmations of the Israelites' relationship with God and their reliance on Him in their lineage and history.