Ezra 10:38

From the descendants of Binnui: Shimei,

Study Bible

From the descendants of Binnui:
The mention of Binnui connects to the broader narrative of the return from Babylonian exile. Binnui is listed among the leaders who returned with Zerubbabel (Ezra 2:10). This highlights the importance of lineage and family heritage in post-exilic Israel, as the community sought to reestablish itself in the Promised Land. The emphasis on descendants underscores the continuity of God's covenant with Israel, despite the exile.

Shimei,
Shimei is a common name in the Old Testament, and it is important to distinguish this Shimei from others, such as the one who cursed David (2 Samuel 16:5-13). The inclusion of Shimei in this list reflects the efforts of the returned exiles to purify their community by addressing intermarriage with foreign women, which was seen as a threat to their religious and cultural identity. This action was part of a larger reform movement led by Ezra to restore adherence to the Law of Moses. The focus on individual names signifies the personal responsibility and commitment required to maintain the holiness of the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bani
A member of the Israelite community who was involved in the issue of intermarriage with foreign women, which was against the Law of Moses. Bani is listed among those who pledged to put away their foreign wives in obedience to God's command.

2. Binnui
Another Israelite who was part of the group that had taken foreign wives. His inclusion in this list signifies his commitment to rectify the situation by adhering to the covenant renewal led by Ezra.

3. Shimei
Also an Israelite involved in the intermarriage issue. Shimei's presence in this list highlights the widespread nature of the problem and the collective effort required to address it.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' decision to put away foreign wives demonstrates the importance of aligning our lives with God's Word, even when it requires difficult choices.

Community Accountability
The collective action taken by the Israelites underlines the role of community in encouraging and holding each other accountable to live according to God's standards.

Repentance and Renewal
True repentance involves not just feeling sorry for sin but taking concrete steps to correct it, as seen in the actions of Bani, Binnui, and Shimei.

Guarding Against Compromise
The issue of intermarriage serves as a warning against compromising our faith and values, reminding us to remain vigilant in our spiritual walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. What steps did the Israelites take to address the issue of intermarriage, and how can we apply similar principles of obedience in our lives today?

2. How does the community's response in Ezra 10 reflect the importance of accountability among believers? Can you think of a situation where you have experienced or provided such accountability?

3. In what ways does the issue of intermarriage in Ezra relate to the New Testament teachings on marriage and spiritual unity?

4. How can we guard against spiritual compromise in our own lives, and what role does community play in this?

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

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 9
Provides the background to Ezra 10, where Ezra learns of the intermarriages and prays in confession and repentance on behalf of the people.

Nehemiah 13
Nehemiah also deals with the issue of intermarriage, showing the ongoing struggle of the Israelites to maintain their distinct identity and obedience to God's laws.

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
God's command to Israel not to intermarry with the surrounding nations, emphasizing the importance of remaining faithful to Him.

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