Ezra 10:3 (KJV)

What does Ezra 10:3 mean?

Ezra 10:3 describes a proposal to make a binding agreement with God to send away foreign wives and their children, following the advice of those who deeply respect God's command and in line with the law. The verse shows a group decision to correct what they saw as a violation of their religious law by separating from marriages that were not permitted.

In this verse, Shecaniah is speaking to Ezra in front of the assembled people of Israel, after it was discovered that many had married foreign women, which was against their religious rules at the time. The verse highlights the seriousness with which the community wanted to address the issue, emphasizing both obedience to God's commands and the desire to act according to the law (the Torah).

The Hebrew behind Ezra 10:3

• "make" (כָּרַת, karat): This word often means "to cut" and is used for making covenants, suggesting a formal, solemn agreement that is not easily broken.
• "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit): This term refers to a binding promise or agreement, especially one with God, showing the seriousness of their commitment.
• "tremble" (חָרֵד, chared): This word describes those who deeply respect or fear God's commandment, highlighting that the proposal comes from people who are especially careful to honor God's law.
• "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah): This means the instruction or law, referring specifically to the teachings given by God, which were the standard for their actions.

Why Ezra 10:3 matters

• Ezra 10:3 shows that the community's response was not just emotional but organized and rooted in their understanding of God's law, stressing the importance of collective responsibility.
• The verse clarifies that the action was taken after careful counsel and with respect for God's commandments, not out of prejudice or haste.
• This verse connects to the larger theme of Ezra, where returning exiles are trying to restore their identity and faithfulness to God after a long period of exile and compromise.