What is the meaning of Ezra 10:27? From the descendants of Zattu “From the descendants of Zattu” (Ezra 10:27) places this verse in the long list of men who had married foreign women during the post-exilic resettlement. The family line of Zattu had earlier returned with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:8) and helped seal the covenant of faithfulness in Nehemiah 10:14. Their presence here underscores how widespread the compromise had become—even respected, covenant-signing families were involved. Ezra’s call was not selective; every household was measured against God’s standard in Deuteronomy 7:3-4 and Exodus 34:12-16. Elioenai Elioenai’s name heads the list, reminding us that individual accountability matters. As Ezra 10:11 insists, “Now, therefore, make confession to the LORD… and separate yourselves from the peoples of the land and from your foreign wives”. Elioenai’s response would influence his entire household (cf. Joshua 24:15). Eliashib Eliashib shares the name of the later high priest who struggled with similar compromise (Nehemiah 13:4-9). While not necessarily the same man, the repetition shows that spiritual drift can recur if vigilance slackens (1 Corinthians 10:12). God’s Word charts a consistent course: holiness is not optional for any generation. Mattaniah Mattaniah’s appearance reflects the personal cost of repentance. The men listed in Ezra 10 gave up wives and, in many cases, children (Ezra 10:44). Genuine obedience may demand painful decisions (Luke 14:26-27), yet God honors those who surrender anything that competes with covenant fidelity. Jeremoth Jeremoth reminds us that sin often spreads through social and familial networks. Earlier, Ezra “sat appalled” (Ezra 9:3-4) because the leaders had led the way in compromise. Yet contagious sin can be countered by contagious repentance: “Then all the assembly replied, ‘You are right; we must do as you say’” (Ezra 10:12). Zabad Zabad’s inclusion shows that no sin is hidden from the Lord (Psalm 90:8). While this public register might seem shaming, it actually demonstrates grace: the offenders were being given a path back to purity. Confession and correction mark the doorway to restored fellowship (1 John 1:9). Aziza Aziza completes the six names, a small number within the larger catalog. God records individuals because He values individuals. Just as Revelation 2–3 addresses specific churches, Ezra 10 addresses specific men. God’s dealings are personal, not merely statistical. summary Ezra 10:27 records six men from the house of Zattu who had married foreign wives, spotlighting the depth of Israel’s compromise and the personal nature of repentance. Each name illustrates two unchanging truths: sin never escapes God’s notice, and grace always provides a way back through confession and decisive obedience (Ezra 10:11; Deuteronomy 30:2-3). The verse reminds believers today that holiness is non-negotiable, repentance is specific, and our faithful response influences families, communities, and future generations. |
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