Question 1

What does Ezra 10:22 mean?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Ezra 10:22

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

Why Ezra 10:22 matters

Accepted Answer

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.

Ezra 10:22 (KJV)