2 esdras 4:38 - Then answered I and said, O Lord that bear rule, yet even we all are full of impiety:

Generated Verse: 2 esdras 4:38

What does "2 esdras 4:38" mean?


This verse from 2 Esdras 4:38 reflects a moment of profound humility and self-awareness in the speaker, likely Esdras himself. Let's break down the meaning:

"Then answered I and said..." This indicates a response to a prior interaction or teaching. Esdras is engaging in a dialogue, presumably with an angelic being or God.

"O Lord that bear rule..." This is an acknowledgement of God's absolute authority and sovereignty over all things. "Bear rule" emphasizes God's governance and control.

"...yet even we all are full of impiety:" This is the crucial part of the verse. It's a confession of pervasive sinfulness.

"We all" likely refers to the people of Israel, or perhaps even humanity in general. Esdras is not just speaking of individual failings, but a collective condition.
"Full of impiety" This is a strong statement about the extent of sin. "Impiety" means a lack of reverence or respect for God; wickedness, ungodliness, and a violation of religious duty. It suggests a deep-seated moral corruption. The word 'full' emphasizes the pervasive nature of this sinfulness.

In summary, the verse means that Esdras, acknowledging God's supreme authority, admits that he and his people (or humanity) are deeply and pervasively sinful, lacking proper reverence for God and filled with ungodliness.

Context within 2 Esdras:

This verse is significant within the context of 2 Esdras. The book explores themes of suffering, justice, and the apparent delay of God's promised restoration for Israel. Esdras grapples with difficult questions about God's plan and the prevalence of evil in the world. This confession of "impiety" helps to explain the situation. The sinfulness of the people is a major factor in their suffering and the delay of their deliverance. It also highlights the need for divine grace and forgiveness. He struggles with the problem of evil and the apparent injustices in the world, which leads him to question God's ways. This admission of sinfulness is a crucial part of his quest to understand God's plan. It acknowledges the unworthiness of humanity and the need for divine intervention.

The speaker acknowledges God's absolute authority and then confesses a deep-seated corruption within himself and his people. This sentiment reflects a longing for reconciliation with God and a hope for redemption. This verse sets the stage for the further exploration of God's mercy, judgment, and ultimate plan for salvation, which unfolds in the subsequent chapters.

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