Bible Dictionary
Azgad
Azgad was the ancestor of a large family that returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel. Members of the family also returned with Ezra, and its leaders joined in the covenant during Nehemiah’s time.
Definition
Azgad was the ancestor or family head whose descendants returned from Babylon. The children of Azgad returned with Zerubbabel, and another group returned with Ezra. Azgad’s leaders later joined in sealing the covenant associated with Nehemiah.
Biblical Usage
The family is listed among the returning exiles and among those who entered the covenant after the restoration. The recorded number is 1,222 in Ezra and 2,322 in Nehemiah; 110 males returned with their chief under Ezra.
Historical Background
The name is associated with the meaning “strong is Gad” or “strength of fortune.” The family participated in the postexilic restoration from Babylon.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(strength of fortune). The children of Azgad, to the number of 1222 (2322 according to) (Nehemiah 7:17) were among the laymen who returned with Zerubbabel. (Ezra 2:12; 8:12) With the other heads of the People they joined in the covenant with Nehemiah. (Nehemiah 10:15) (B.C. 536.)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>az'-gad (`azgadh, "strong is Gad"): In the list of those who returned from Babylon with Zerubbabel are mentioned "the children of Azgad" (1,222, Ezr 2:12; 2,322, Ne 7:17). 110 males with their chief returned with Ezra (Ezr 8:12). Azgad was among the leaders who signed the Covenant after Nehemiah (Ne 10:15).</p>