This verse, Ezra 10:14, is a key part of Ezra's plan to deal with the issue of Jewish men marrying foreign women. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Now let our princes be appointed for all the assembly...": This is suggesting a system of leadership or a committee to oversee the process of addressing the marriages. "Princes" here refers to leaders or officials within the community.
"...and let all those who are in our cities who have married foreign women come at appointed times...": This is directing the men who have married foreign women to appear before the appointed leaders at specific, scheduled times. This is likely for an official hearing or examination.
"...and with them the elders of every city, and its judges...": The men are to bring with them representatives from their local community: the elders (respected, experienced community leaders) and judges (those with authority in legal matters). This is to ensure fairness, local knowledge, and adherence to established customs/laws.
"...until the fierce wrath of our God is turned from us, until this matter is resolved.”: The ultimate goal is to appease God and stop the divine anger believed to be caused by this intermarriage. The process will continue until the problem is fully addressed and a resolution is reached, hopefully averting further divine punishment.
In essence, the verse is outlining a structured, organized, and localized approach to addressing the problem of intermarriage. It emphasizes the importance of local leadership, due process, and a sincere effort to rectify the situation to restore their relationship with God. The hope is that by addressing the transgression methodically, they can regain God's favor.
This verse, Ezra 10:14, is a key part of Ezra's plan to deal with the issue of Jewish men marrying foreign women. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Now let our princes be appointed for all the assembly...": This is suggesting a system of leadership or a committee to oversee the process of addressing the marriages. "Princes" here refers to leaders or officials within the community.
"...and let all those who are in our cities who have married foreign women come at appointed times...": This is directing the men who have married foreign women to appear before the appointed leaders at specific, scheduled times. This is likely for an official hearing or examination.
"...and with them the elders of every city, and its judges...": The men are to bring with them representatives from their local community: the elders (respected, experienced community leaders) and judges (those with authority in legal matters). This is to ensure fairness, local knowledge, and adherence to established customs/laws.
"...until the fierce wrath of our God is turned from us, until this matter is resolved.”: The ultimate goal is to appease God and stop the divine anger believed to be caused by this intermarriage. The process will continue until the problem is fully addressed and a resolution is reached, hopefully averting further divine punishment.
In essence, the verse is outlining a structured, organized, and localized approach to addressing the problem of intermarriage. It emphasizes the importance of local leadership, due process, and a sincere effort to rectify the situation to restore their relationship with God. The hope is that by addressing the transgression methodically, they can regain God's favor.