Application Questions:

How are the 42,000 returning exiles in Ezra 2 grouped? What significance can be found in these categories?

What do Old Testament genealogies teach about God?

Why were 652 exiles excluded from service in the priesthood and eating the holy food? How would their exclusion be resolved?

Does worship of the Living God occupy the same interest in your life as it did for the returning exiles? How are you known for your involvement in a worshipping community?