עזרא, פרק ז׳, פסוק ז׳

A new wave of migration to Jerusalem brings together representatives from every corner of the nation and the Temple service, marking a vital step in the return to Zion. This journey, led by Ezra, is not the initial return. Rather, it is an additional group joining those who had already traveled to the land earlier under the leadership of Zerubbabel [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

A diverse gathering makes up this traveling company. Among them are the singers and the gatekeepers, who served as the guards of the gates [מצודת ציון]. Although they are listed as distinct groups, they are actually members of the tribe of Levi [רלב״ג]. The specific details regarding why these particular Levites joined the journey will be clarified as the historical account continues [אבן עזרא]. Another distinct group participating in the journey is the Nethinim. The primary approach among commentators is that these individuals are the descendants of the Gibeonites. They received this specific title because they were completely given over and dedicated to the service of the House of God.

Historically, this migration takes place in the seventh year of King Artaxerxes. This timing is significant because it occurs exactly one year after the construction of the Temple was finally completed. The ruler referred to in this era as Artaxerxes is actually King Darius [רש״י].