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Nekoda

Nekoda was the name of two families of temple servants (Nethinim) whose genealogy could not be verified after the Babylonian exile. Their uncertain lineage raised questions about ritual purity and priestly service in the restored temple.

Overview

Nekoda appears twice in the post-exilic records of Israel. One family of Nekoda comprised temple servants whose descendants returned from Babylon but could not prove their genealogy (Ezra 2:48; Nehemiah 7:50). Another group with the same name could not demonstrate their Israelite descent and were therefore excluded from eating the holy food until a priest could consult the Urim and Thummim (Ezra 2:60; Nehemiah 7:62).

Key Scriptures

"The children of Keros, the children of Siaha, the children of Padon, the children of Lebana, the children of Hagaba, the children of Akkub, the children of Hagab, the children of Shalmai, the children of Hanan, the children of Giddel, the children of Gahar, the children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam" (Ezra 2:48, ESV). "The children of Keros, the children of Sia, the children of Padon, the children of Lebana, the children of Hagaba, the children of Shalmai, the children of Hanan, the children of Giddel, the children of Gahar, the children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam" (Nehemiah 7:50, ESV).

Application

This account reminds us that spiritual service requires proper foundations and accountability, reflecting God's concern for maintaining holiness in worship.

Scripture References 4
Full Topical Reference List 4 total — Nave's Topical Bible