Question 1

What does Ezra 10:34 mean?

Accepted Answer

Ezra 10:34 lists three men—Maadai, Amram, and Uel—who are identified as sons of Bani. This verse is part of a record naming individuals involved in a specific situation addressed in the book of Ezra. Ezra is recounting the names of men from the family of Bani who had taken foreign wives, which was a concern for the returned exiles seeking to restore their community’s faithfulness. The verse is part of a longer list, showing the thoroughness with which the community addressed the issue and documented those involved.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Ezra 10:34

Accepted Answer

בְּנֵי (benê, H1121): This word means "sons" and is used here to indicate descendants or members of the family of Bani. It shows the focus on family lines and accountability within the community. בָּנִי (Bani, H1137): This is a personal name, referring to a specific family group among the returned exiles. The mention of Bani helps trace the lineage and responsibility of those listed. מַעֲדַי (Maadai, H4572), עַמְרָם (Amram, H6019), וְאוּאֵל (Uel, H177): These are the names of the individuals being listed. Including their names highlights the personal nature of the record and the seriousness with which the community addressed the issue.

Question 3

Why Ezra 10:34 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse shows the careful documentation of individuals involved in the community’s efforts to return to their religious commitments, emphasizing transparency and accountability. By naming specific people and families, the passage underscores the communal nature of the problem and the collective responsibility to address it. This list connects to the wider passage by illustrating the thorough process of confession and reform that was taking place among the returned exiles.

Ezra 10:34 (KJV)