Ezra 9:10 (KJV)

What does Ezra 9:10 mean?

Ezra 9:10 records Ezra’s prayer to God, expressing deep regret and confusion after realizing that the people of Israel have disobeyed God’s commandments. Ezra admits that they have turned away from what God had clearly instructed, and he wonders what they can even say in response to this failure.

Ezra, a priest and scribe, is speaking directly to God after learning that many Israelites, including leaders, have married people from surrounding nations, which was against God’s laws for them at that time. This verse comes as Ezra is overwhelmed by the seriousness of their disobedience and is searching for words to address their guilt before God. The verse sets the tone for the rest of his prayer, which is marked by humility and confession.

The Hebrew behind Ezra 9:10

• God (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim): This is the common Hebrew word for God, emphasizing His power and authority. Ezra addresses God directly, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
• Say (אָמַר, amar): This word means “to say” or “to speak.” Ezra’s question, “what shall we say after this?” shows his sense of speechlessness and shame in the face of their wrongdoing.
• After (אַחַר, achar): This word means “after” or “following.” Ezra is responding to what has just happened, showing that their actions have brought them to a critical point.
• Forsaken (עָזַב, azav): This word means “to leave” or “to abandon.” Ezra admits that the people have actively turned away from God’s commandments, not just accidentally missed them.
• Commandments (מִצְוָה, mitzvah): This word refers to God’s specific instructions or laws. Ezra’s use of this word underlines that the people’s actions were a direct violation of what God had clearly told them to do.

Why Ezra 9:10 matters

• This verse highlights Ezra’s honesty and humility in prayer, showing that he does not try to excuse or minimize the people’s disobedience.
• Ezra 9:10 connects to the larger theme of the chapter, where Ezra confesses the sins of the people and seeks God’s mercy, setting an example of leadership and repentance.
• The verse clarifies that the issue was not ignorance but a conscious decision to forsake God’s commandments, which deepens the seriousness of their situation.