Ezra 2:59
What does Ezra 2:59 mean?
A plain-English look at Ezra 2:59 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Ezra 2:59 means
This verse names groups from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addan, and Immer who could not demonstrate their fathers’ houses or seed, whether they were of Israel. They returned with the others but lacked documentation to prove Israelite lineage. The record acknowledges their presence while signaling a problem that requires careful handling. In a time when identity determined rights and roles—especially in temple service—uncertainty could not be ignored. This sets the stage for prudent restrictions meant not to shame but to protect the integrity of the restored community and its worship.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And these were they that went up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addan, andImmer; but they could not show their fathers’ houses, and their seed, whether they were of Israel:
KJV
King James Version · 1611And these were they which went up from Tel–melah, Tel–harsa, Cherub, Addan, and Immer: but they could not shew their father’s house, and their seed, whether they were of Israel:
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And these were they that went up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addan, andImmer; but they could not show their fathers’ houses, and their seed, whether they were of Israel:
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And these were the people who went up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addan, and Immer. But having no knowledge of their fathers' families or offspring, it was not certain that they were Israelites;
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And these <FI>are<Fi> those going up from Tel-Melah, Tel-Harsa, Cherub, Addan, Immer, and they have not been able to declare the house of their fathers, and their seed, whether they <FI>are<Fi> of Israel:
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And these are they that came up from Thelmela, Thelharsa, Cherub, and Adon, and Emer. And they could not shew the house of their fathers and their seed, whether they were of Israel.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And these are they that went up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub-Addan, Immer; but they could not shew their fathers' house, nor their seed, whether they were of Israel.
Context
Having detailed those with clear genealogies and roles, the narrative now turns to returnees whose lineage could not be established (vv. 59–63). This issue is especially sensitive for priests, because purity of descent is required for sacred service. The following verses will specify which families were affected, the investigation into their records, and the temporary measures imposed until proper confirmation could be obtained, preserving holiness in temple functions.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Nehemiah 7:61
And these were they that went up from Tel-melah, Tel-harsha, Cherub, Addon, and Immer; but they could not show their fathers’ houses, nor their seed, whether they were of Israel: