Only a few of the Jews were disposed to return to their land, not quite fifty thousand of them, and these are named by their towns to the number of twenty-nine thousand eight hundred and eighteen men. Among them were priests, Levites, singers, doorkeepers of the temple. Nethinims (subordinate temple servants) whom David and the princes had appointed, and the children of Solomon's servants.
Some who went to the land of Judah could not show their father's house, nor whether they were of Israel at all; and of the children of the priests, there were those who could not show their genealogical register, and as polluted, they were removed from the priesthood; these were told that they should not eat of the most holy things—should not have the full priestly privilege—till there stood up a priest with the Urim and Thummim, that is, till the Lord Jesus comes and reigns, and disentangles all the confusion.
It was rightful that those who professed to bear the name of the Lord; of being near to God, should be required to prove their title; profession without reality, will not do today either.
There was great weakness, the throne of David was not restored, but there was not negligence of what was due to God,— nor was idolatry practiced now; here then was gain from the captivity, for the neglect of what was due to God, and the bringing in of idolatry, were what had brought the hand of God heavily upon them.