Ezra 10:23 (KJV)

What does Ezra 10:23 mean?

Ezra 10:23 lists the names of certain Levites—Jozabad, Shimei, Kelaiah (also called Kelita), Pethahiah, Judah, and Eliezer—who are being singled out in the context of a larger account. These Levites are identified among those who had taken foreign wives, an issue being addressed in this chapter.

Ezra, the priest and scribe, is overseeing a process of confession and reform among the returned exiles in Jerusalem. This verse is part of a detailed record naming those involved, showing that even religious leaders, like the Levites (H3881), were not exempt from the community’s problems. The verse highlights the seriousness and thoroughness with which the community is dealing with matters of faithfulness to their laws.

The Hebrew behind Ezra 10:23

• לְוִיִּם (Levites, lĕviyyim, H3881): This term refers to members of the tribe of Levi, who had special responsibilities in temple worship. Their inclusion here emphasizes that the call to repentance and reform extended to all levels of society, including religious leaders.
• כְּלָיָה (Kelaiah, kĕlāyāh, H7041) and קְלִיטָא (Kelita, qĕlîtā’, H7042): The verse notes that Kelaiah is also called Kelita, showing that some individuals were known by more than one name. This detail helps clarify identity in historical records.

Why Ezra 10:23 matters

• This verse makes it clear that the issue of intermarriage was not limited to the general population but included the Levites, who were expected to set an example for others.
• By naming individuals, the text underlines the seriousness of accountability and the public nature of the community’s repentance.
• The verse connects to the broader narrative in Ezra 10, where the returned exiles are working to restore their identity and faithfulness after the exile, showing the depth of the reforms being undertaken.