Ezra 10:18

Among the descendants of the priests who had married foreign women were found these descendants of Jeshua son of Jozadak and his brothers: Maaseiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah.

Study Bible

Among the descendants of the priests
The priests held a significant role in Israelite society, serving as mediators between God and the people. Their lineage was crucial, as they were descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses. This phrase highlights the importance of maintaining purity within the priestly line, as they were responsible for performing sacred duties in the temple.

who had married foreign women
Marrying foreign women was a direct violation of the Mosaic Law, which prohibited Israelites from intermarrying with surrounding nations (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). This was not an ethnic issue but a spiritual one, as foreign wives often led Israelites to idolatry, as seen in the case of Solomon (1 Kings 11:1-4). The concern was the potential for these marriages to lead the priests and the people away from worshiping Yahweh.

were found these descendants of Jeshua son of Jozadak and his brothers
Jeshua, also known as Joshua, was the high priest who returned with Zerubbabel from the Babylonian exile (Ezra 2:2). He played a crucial role in rebuilding the temple and restoring worship in Jerusalem (Haggai 1:12-14). The mention of his descendants indicates the seriousness of the issue, as even the family of the high priest was not exempt from the transgression.

Maaseiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah
These names represent specific individuals within the priestly families who had taken foreign wives. The listing of names serves to personalize the account, showing that real people were involved in this breach of covenant. It underscores the need for accountability and repentance among the leaders of the community. The inclusion of these names also reflects the biblical principle of individual responsibility for sin, as seen in Ezekiel 18:20.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeshua son of Jozadak
Jeshua was the high priest who returned with Zerubbabel from the Babylonian exile. He played a significant role in rebuilding the temple and restoring worship in Jerusalem.

2. Maaseiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah
These were priests, descendants of Jeshua, who were found to have married foreign women, which was against the Law of Moses.

3. Foreign Women
The term refers to women from surrounding nations who did not follow the God of Israel. Marrying them was prohibited to prevent the Israelites from being led into idolatry.

4. The Event of Repentance
This chapter describes a significant moment of repentance and reform among the Israelites, as they sought to correct their disobedience to God's laws.

5. The Exile and Return
The context of this event is the return of the Israelites from Babylonian exile, a time of rebuilding both physically and spiritually.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
God's commands are given for our protection and spiritual well-being. Disobedience can lead to spiritual compromise and idolatry.

The Role of Leadership in Repentance
Leaders, like the priests in Ezra's time, are called to set an example in obedience and repentance. Their actions can lead others toward or away from God.

The Call to Holiness
As believers, we are called to be set apart for God. This includes making choices that honor Him in our relationships and daily lives.

The Power of Repentance
True repentance involves recognizing sin, confessing it, and taking steps to correct it. This leads to restoration and renewed fellowship with God.

Guarding Against Spiritual Compromise
We must be vigilant in our relationships and associations, ensuring they align with our faith and do not lead us away from God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the consequences for the priests who married foreign women, and how does this reflect the seriousness of disobedience to God's commands?

2. How can we apply the principle of spiritual unity in marriage to our relationships today?

3. In what ways can church leaders today follow the example of Ezra in leading their congregations toward repentance and reform?

4. How does the concept of being "set apart" for God influence your daily decisions and interactions with others?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision to align your life with God's commands. What was the outcome, and how did it affect your relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
This passage provides the original command against intermarriage with foreign nations, highlighting the risk of turning away from God.

Nehemiah 13:23-27
Nehemiah also addresses the issue of intermarriage, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity in worship and obedience to God's commands.

1 Corinthians 7:39
In the New Testament, Paul advises believers to marry "only in the Lord," reinforcing the principle of spiritual unity in marriage.