Ezra 9:14

shall we again break Your commandments and intermarry with the peoples who commit these abominations? Would You not become so angry with us as to wipe us out, leaving no remnant or survivor?

Study Bible

shall we again break Your commandments
This phrase reflects a deep concern for the repeated disobedience of the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "break" is "parar," which means to violate or annul. Historically, the Israelites had a covenant with God, and breaking His commandments was seen as a serious transgression. This highlights the cyclical nature of sin and repentance in Israel's history, emphasizing the need for vigilance and faithfulness to God's laws.

and intermarry with the peoples
The issue of intermarriage is significant in the context of Ezra. The Hebrew word "chathan" refers to forming alliances through marriage. This was not merely a social concern but a spiritual one, as intermarriage often led to the adoption of pagan practices and idolatry. The historical context shows that such unions could dilute the distinctiveness of the Israelite faith and lead to spiritual compromise.

who commit these abominations
The term "abominations" translates from the Hebrew "toebah," which refers to practices that are detestable or loathsome to God. In the context of the Old Testament, this often included idolatry and immoral practices associated with pagan worship. The use of this term underscores the severity of the sin and the potential for spiritual corruption.

Would You not become so angry with us
This phrase reflects the righteous anger of God, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word for "angry" is "anaph," indicating a deep, passionate response to sin. It serves as a reminder of God's holiness and justice, and the consequences of disobedience. The historical narrative of Israel is replete with instances where God's anger led to judgment, emphasizing the need for repentance and obedience.

that You would destroy us
The concept of destruction here is tied to the Hebrew word "shamad," meaning to annihilate or exterminate. This reflects the ultimate consequence of persistent sin and rebellion against God. The historical context of the Babylonian exile serves as a backdrop, where the Israelites experienced the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, illustrating the seriousness of divine judgment.

leaving no remnant or survivor
The idea of a "remnant" is significant in biblical theology. The Hebrew word "she'erit" refers to a small, surviving group that remains faithful to God. Throughout Israel's history, God preserved a remnant as a testament to His mercy and faithfulness. This phrase underscores the fear of total annihilation due to sin, yet it also hints at the hope that God, in His mercy, often spares a remnant to continue His covenant promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezra
A scribe and priest who led a group of exiles back to Jerusalem. He was deeply concerned about the spiritual and moral state of the returned exiles.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who had returned from Babylonian exile. They were struggling with maintaining their distinct identity and faithfulness to God's commandments.

3. Intermarriage with Foreign Peoples
The Israelites were intermarrying with the surrounding nations, which was against God's commandments due to the risk of idolatry and moral corruption.

4. Jerusalem
The city where the returned exiles were rebuilding the temple and re-establishing their community.

5. God's Commandments
The laws given to the Israelites, which included prohibitions against intermarriage with pagan nations to prevent the adoption of idolatrous practices.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness to God's Commandments
Ezra's prayer highlights the importance of adhering to God's laws, especially in areas that can lead to spiritual compromise.

The Danger of Compromise
Intermarriage with those who do not share the same faith can lead to a dilution of beliefs and practices, drawing individuals away from God.

The Role of Leadership
Ezra's response to the sin of the people shows the responsibility of leaders to guide and correct their communities according to God's word.

Repentance and Restoration
The passage underscores the need for genuine repentance and a return to God's ways to avoid His righteous judgment.

The Importance of a Remnant
God's mercy in preserving a remnant is a recurring theme, emphasizing His faithfulness even when His people are unfaithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. What specific commandments were the Israelites breaking, and why were these commandments important for maintaining their identity as God's people?

2. How does Ezra's response to the sin of intermarriage reflect the seriousness with which we should approach sin in our own lives?

3. In what ways can the account of Solomon's downfall due to foreign marriages serve as a warning for us today?

4. How can we apply the principle of being "in the world but not of the world" in our relationships and interactions with those who do not share our faith?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that we remain faithful to God's commandments in a culture that often promotes compromise?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Nehemiah 13:23-27
Nehemiah also addresses the issue of intermarriage, showing the ongoing struggle of the Israelites to remain faithful to God's laws.

1 Kings 11:1-4
The account of Solomon's marriages to foreign women, which led him to idolatry, serves as a historical example of the dangers Ezra was concerned about.