This verse, Ezra 10:13, is part of a larger discussion about the Israelite men who had married foreign wives, a practice forbidden under Jewish law. Let's break down the meaning:
"But the people are many...": This refers to the large number of men who had married foreign women. It highlights the widespread nature of the transgression.
"...and it is a time of much rain, and we are not able to stand outside.": This is a practical point. They are convened to deal with this serious issue, but the heavy rain makes it difficult and uncomfortable to conduct the meeting in the open. The weather is a contributing factor to the complexity of the situation.
"This is not a work of one day or two...": Addressing the problem of the intermarriage is a complex and time-consuming task. It involves investigating the cases, dealing with the practical and emotional consequences of divorce, and ensuring proper procedures are followed.
"...for we have greatly transgressed in this matter.": This is the key point. The speakers acknowledge the severity of their sin. The intermarriage is seen as a significant violation of God's law and a threat to the purity of the Israelite community and their covenant with God.
In essence, the verse expresses:
The large scale of the problem (many people involved).
The difficulties and time required to address it (due to the rain and the complexity of the situation).
The seriousness of the transgression (recognizing the gravity of the sin of marrying foreign wives).
The verse sets the stage for a methodical and organized approach to dealing with the issue, despite the challenges. It indicates that the community recognizes the depth of the problem and understands that a careful, deliberate process is needed to rectify the situation.
This verse, Ezra 10:13, is part of a larger discussion about the Israelite men who had married foreign wives, a practice forbidden under Jewish law. Let's break down the meaning:
"But the people are many...": This refers to the large number of men who had married foreign women. It highlights the widespread nature of the transgression.
"...and it is a time of much rain, and we are not able to stand outside.": This is a practical point. They are convened to deal with this serious issue, but the heavy rain makes it difficult and uncomfortable to conduct the meeting in the open. The weather is a contributing factor to the complexity of the situation.
"This is not a work of one day or two...": Addressing the problem of the intermarriage is a complex and time-consuming task. It involves investigating the cases, dealing with the practical and emotional consequences of divorce, and ensuring proper procedures are followed.
"...for we have greatly transgressed in this matter.": This is the key point. The speakers acknowledge the severity of their sin. The intermarriage is seen as a significant violation of God's law and a threat to the purity of the Israelite community and their covenant with God.
In essence, the verse expresses:
The large scale of the problem (many people involved).
The difficulties and time required to address it (due to the rain and the complexity of the situation).
The seriousness of the transgression (recognizing the gravity of the sin of marrying foreign wives).
The verse sets the stage for a methodical and organized approach to dealing with the issue, despite the challenges. It indicates that the community recognizes the depth of the problem and understands that a careful, deliberate process is needed to rectify the situation.