Question 1

What does Ezra 10:35 mean?

Accepted Answer

Ezra 10:35 lists the names Benaiah, Bedeiah, and Chelluh as part of a record. This verse is part of a longer list naming individuals involved in a specific event addressed in the book of Ezra. Ezra, a priest and scribe, is documenting the names of those among the Israelites who had taken foreign wives, which was considered a serious issue at that time. The verse simply records three individuals by name, showing their inclusion in this group. This list helps establish a historical record of the people involved and the seriousness with which the community addressed the situation.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Ezra 10:35

Accepted Answer

בְּנָיָה (Benaiah, transliterated "Benaiah") means "Yahweh has built" or "Yahweh builds." The name reflects a common practice of embedding references to God in personal names, highlighting the religious context of the community. בְּדֵעְיָה (Bedeiah, transliterated "Bedeiah") means "Yahweh knows." This name again points to a theologically conscious community, where names often express trust in God's knowledge or oversight. כֶּלּוּהַ (Chelluh, transliterated "Chelluh") has an uncertain meaning, but it is preserved here as a personal name. Its inclusion alongside the other names underscores the thoroughness of the record.

Question 3

Why Ezra 10:35 matters

Accepted Answer

Ezra 10:35 is part of a detailed list that shows the community's commitment to accountability and transparency as they dealt with a difficult issue. The verse connects to the wider passage by emphasizing that the response to intermarriage was not abstract but involved real people, each named and remembered. The careful recording of names in Ezra 10 highlights the importance of individual responsibility within the community’s efforts to return to faithfulness.

Ezra 10:35 (KJV)