Book of Ezra - Chapter 8 - Verse 12

The verse "And of the sons of Azgad; Johanan the son of Hakkatan, and with him an hundred and ten males." is found in the book of Ezra in the Old Testament of the Bible. This verse lists the descendants of Azgad, a prominent Israelite who returned from exile in Babylon back to Jerusalem. Johanan, the son of Hakkatan, is mentioned as one of the descendants along with 110 other males. This genealogy is significant as it highlights the detailed record-keeping and lineage tracing that was important in biblical times. It serves as a reminder of the historical context of the Israelites' journey from captivity to freedom and the importance of family heritage. Each name mentioned in the Bible has a specific purpose and significance, and this verse is no different. By understanding and studying these genealogies, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture of the Israelites as well as the meticulous preservation of their lineage.

When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse mentioning Johanan the son of Hakkatan, we can delve into the significance of names in the Bible. Johanan means 'God is gracious' in Hebrew, indicating that this individual was seen as a recipient of God's favor. Additionally, the mention of Hakkatan, which means 'the youngest' or 'the smallest', could suggest that Johanan was considered insignificant or overlooked by others. However, in God's eyes, even the seemingly smallest or least important individuals have a crucial role to play in His plans. This verse also emphasizes the importance of community and lineage, as Johanan was listed among the sons of Azgad along with a specific number of males. This highlights the idea of unity and strength in numbers within the context of the Jewish community during that time. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's grace towards even the seemingly insignificant individuals and the significance of familial and communal ties within the larger narrative of the Bible.