Adin is the name of a prominent family head whose descendants played a significant role in the Return from the Babylonian Exile to Jerusalem. The name itself is Hebrew, meaning “dainty,” “delicate,” or “adorned.” Unlike many individuals recorded in the genealogies, Adin is chiefly remembered not as a person but as the founder of a large clan whose fidelity to the covenant sustained the rebuilding effort.
The Historical Importance of Adin’s Descendants
The family of Adin is highlighted across the post-exilic books of Ezra and Nehemiah, underscoring their commitment to the re-establishment of the community in Judah.
1. Return with Zerubbabel
The “children of Adin” were a considerable family group among the first wave of exiles who left the settled life in Babylon to return to a desolate Jerusalem under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua.
- KJV Scripture Reference for the First Return (c. 536 B.C.):“The children of Adin, four hundred fifty and four.” (Ezra 2:15, KJV)”The children of Adin, six hundred fifty and five.” (Nehemiah 7:20, KJV)(Note: The discrepancy in the numbers (454 in Ezra vs. 655 in Nehemiah) is common in these parallel census lists, likely reflecting different periods of census taking or the inclusion of various returning contingents.)
2. Return with Ezra
Later, a second group of Adin’s descendants, led by Ebed the son of Jonathan, returned with Ezra the priest and scribe, demonstrating the family’s continuous dedication to the restoration of their homeland and faith.
- KJV Scripture Reference for the Second Return (c. 458 B.C.):“Of the sons also of Adin; Ebed the son of Jonathan, and with him fifty males.” (Ezra 8:6, KJV)
3. Sealing the Covenant
Finally, a representative named Adin is listed among the chief men of the people who publicly signed and sealed the solemn covenant led by Nehemiah. This covenant was a pledge to separate from foreign influences, keep the Sabbath, and support the Temple service in accordance with the Law of God. The presence of the family name here signifies their official and communal commitment to spiritual renewal.
- KJV Scripture Reference for the Covenant Sealing (c. 444 B.C.):“Adonijah, Bigvai, Adin,” (Nehemiah 10:16, KJV)
The numerous references to the descendants of Adin thus serve as an enduring testament to the faithfulness of a lineage that endured the seventy years of captivity and chose to participate actively in the great work of rebuilding Israel.