1 esdras 9:48 - Also Jesus, Annus, Sarabias, Iadinus, Jacubus, Sabateus, Auteas, Maiannas, and Calitas, Azarias, and Jozabdus, and Ananias, Phalias, the Levites, taught the law of the Lord, and read to the multitude the law of the Lord, making them withal to understand it.

Generated Verse: 1 esdras 9:48

What does "1 esdras 9:48" mean?


This verse from 1 Esdras 9:48 (which corresponds to Nehemiah 8:7 in the canonical Old Testament) describes a group of Levites who were instrumental in teaching the Jewish people the law of the Lord after their return from exile in Babylon. Let's break down what the verse conveys:

"Also Jesus, Annus, Sarabias, Iadinus, Jacubus, Sabateus, Auteas, Maiannas, and Calitas, Azarias, and Jozabdus, and Ananias, Phalias, the Levites..." This is a list of names of specific Levites. Levites were members of the tribe of Levi, who had priestly and service duties in the temple. These individuals were designated for the important work of educating the people.

"...taught the law of the Lord..." This highlights their primary role: instructing the people in the laws given by God. This involved explaining the commandments, statutes, and ordinances found in the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament).

"...and read to the multitude the law of the Lord..." They publicly read the scriptures to the assembled people. This was crucial because many people were likely illiterate and needed to hear the law to understand it.

"...making them withal to understand it." This is the most important part. They didn't just read the law, but they explained its meaning and significance. They translated and interpreted the scriptures so that the people could comprehend them and apply them to their lives. This likely involved breaking down complex concepts, providing context, and answering questions.

In summary:

The verse emphasizes the crucial role of these Levites in re-establishing the religious foundation of the Jewish community after the exile. They were responsible for:

Disseminating the law: Making it accessible to the people through public readings.
Explaining the law: Ensuring that the people understood the meaning and implications of the law.
Applying the law: Helping the people integrate the law into their daily lives and their relationship with God.

This passage highlights the importance of not only having scripture but also having qualified teachers to interpret and apply it so that it can transform lives and communities.