1 esdras 9:50 - This day is holy to the Lord; (now they all wept when they heard the law:)

Generated Verse: 1 esdras 9:50

What does "1 esdras 9:50" mean?


This verse from 1 Esdras 9:50 is part of the account of the restoration of Jewish life after the Babylonian exile. Let's break it down:

"This day is holy to the Lord": This declaration signifies that the day holds religious significance and is dedicated to God. It's a day set apart for worship, remembrance, and obedience to God's law. It's likely referencing a day specifically designated for reading and reflecting on the Law.

"(now they all wept when they heard the law:)": This parenthetical remark explains the reaction of the people. The hearing of the law evoked deep sorrow and repentance.

Meaning in Context

The verses leading up to 9:50 in 1 Esdras 9 (which corresponds to Nehemiah 8 in the canonical book of Nehemiah) narrate:

1. Ezra reading the Law to the assembled people: Ezra (a priest and scribe) reads the Law of Moses to the people who had returned from exile.
2. Understanding and Conviction: As the Law is read and explained, the people begin to understand the extent to which they and their ancestors had disobeyed God's commandments. They recognize their past sins and failures.
3. Mourning and Repentance: This understanding leads to deep mourning and weeping. The people are convicted by the Law and express their sorrow for their transgressions.

Therefore, the verse means:

The day of the reading and explanation of the Law was a sacred occasion. The people, upon hearing the Law and understanding their past disobedience, were overcome with remorse and wept. Their weeping was an expression of their repentance and recognition of their need to return to God's ways. The holy day served to bring about contrition and a turning back to God's covenant.

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