Ezra 10:22 (KJV)

What does Ezra 10:22 mean?

Ezra 10:22 lists the names of six men who were descendants of Pashur and were identified as part of a group involved in a specific issue being addressed in this chapter. The verse is part of a larger record naming those who had taken foreign wives, which was a concern for the community at that time.

Ezra, a priest and scribe, is leading the returned exiles in Jerusalem as they seek to restore their community according to the Law of Moses. This verse is found in a section where individuals are named to show accountability and transparency in dealing with intermarriage, which was seen as a threat to the religious identity of the people. The mention of these names highlights the seriousness with which the community approached this matter.

The Hebrew behind Ezra 10:22

• בְּנֵי (bənê, "sons"): This word means "sons" or "descendants," emphasizing that the list refers to family lines, not just individuals, showing the broader impact on entire households.
• פַשְׁחוּר (Pashur, "Pashur"): Pashur is a family name, likely referencing a priestly lineage. The mention of this name connects these individuals to a recognized priestly family, which would have made their actions particularly significant in the community.

Why Ezra 10:22 matters

• This verse helps clarify that the issue of intermarriage was not limited to ordinary people but also involved prominent families, including those of priestly descent.
• By naming individuals, the passage underlines the importance of personal and communal responsibility in maintaining the distinctiveness of the returned exiles.
• The detailed record in Ezra 10, including this verse, shows the community’s commitment to transparency and reform as they sought to align themselves with their religious traditions.