Ezra 10:1 - Now while Ezra prayed and made confession, weeping and casting himself down before God’s house, there was gathered together to him out of Israel a very great assembly of men and women and children; for the people wept very bitterly.

Generated Verse: Ezra 10:1

What does "Ezra 10:1" mean?


This verse from Ezra 10:1 describes a powerful and emotional scene in the aftermath of Ezra's discovery that many Jewish men had married foreign women, violating God's law. Let's break it down:

"Now while Ezra prayed and made confession...": Ezra is leading the people in prayer, acknowledging their sin and seeking God's forgiveness. His prayer is likely a mix of praise for God's mercy, lament for the people's disobedience, and a plea for guidance.
"...weeping and casting himself down before God’s house...": This paints a picture of Ezra's deep sorrow and humility. He is physically humbling himself before the Temple, demonstrating his contrition and grief over the situation.
"...there was gathered together to him out of Israel a very great assembly of men and women and children...": People are drawn to Ezra because they are convicted by his actions and words. The fact that the assembly includes men, women, and children emphasizes the widespread impact of the sin and the collective responsibility.
"...for the people wept very bitterly.": This indicates the profound impact of Ezra's confession and their own realization of wrongdoing. Their tears signify remorse, sorrow for their sin, and a desire for repentance. The phrase "very bitterly" suggests the intensity of their grief.

In summary, the verse portrays a scene of collective repentance and mourning. Ezra's sincere prayer and humble demeanor inspire the people to gather around him, acknowledging their sin and expressing deep sorrow. It sets the stage for the subsequent actions taken to address the issue of intermarriage and to renew their commitment to God's law.