THE PROBLEM OF FOREIGN WIVES IS BROUGHT TO EZRA'S ATTENTION (EZRA 9:1). It is noteworthy that the problem in question was drawn to Ezra's attention by some of the ‘princes' of Israel. This suggests that something had made them become concerned about a situation that they were well aware of. And this... [ Continue Reading ]
EZRA DEALS WITH THE PROBLEM OF RETURNEES WHO HAVE BEEN LED ASTRAY INTO IDOLATRY HAVING TAKEN FOREIGN WIVES (EZRA 9:1 TO EZRA 10:44). It is important here to recognise that what was in question was not the taking of foreign wives who willingly turned away from all false gods and became worshippers of... [ Continue Reading ]
EZRA'S ADMISSION OF ISRAEL'S GUILT BEFORE YHWH ON BEHALF OF THE PEOPLE (EZRA 9:5). When the time of the evening sacrifice came, no doubt feeling that this act of atonement and dedication on the behalf of the whole of Israel was a suitable time, Ezra then rose from his sitting position and fell on h... [ Continue Reading ]