Charles Ellicott Commentary Ezra 8:16

"Then sent I for Eliezer, for Ariel, for Shemaiah, and for Elnathan, and for Jarib, and for Elnathan, and for Nathan, and for Zechariah, and for Meshullam, chief men; also for Joiarib, and for Elnathan, who were teachers." — Ezra 8:16 (ASV)

Men of understanding. —Teachers, and perhaps priests. These were joined with nine chief men as a deputation to Iddo.