Reading for November 18th

Read Ezra 8.1-14. In 8.1-14: Listing of those returning with Ezra. Presented in the form of a list, this section has a very atificial structure, leading many to question its authenticity. In verse 2: Of the the descendants of Phineas: the list begins with priests first, followed by the descendants in 1 Chr 3 carries the list three or four generations after these individuals. In verse 3: Of Parosh, Zechariah: what follows are twelve distinct family groups of persons with no specific occupations. Given the figures for thenumber of males in each family group, a total of 1, 500 men, and an estimated total of 5, 000 men, women, and children whould have been part of this group. Comments or Questions..