Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Ezra - Chapter 10 - Verse 19

10:19
And they gave their hands that they would put away their wives; and being guilty, they offered a ram of the flock for their trespass.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Ezra, we see a significant consequence for those who had taken foreign wives, going against God's commandment to remain separate from those who did not worship Him. The act of giving their hands signifies a formal oath or agreement to put away their wives, showing their commitment to rectifying their mistake. By offering a ram of the flock for their trespass, they were making amends for their disobedience and seeking forgiveness for their actions. This verse highlights the seriousness of following God's laws and the importance of repentance and making restitution for our sins. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's commands and the need for true repentance and commitment to living according to His will.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Ezra, the act of giving their hands refers to making a vow or agreement before the Lord. The men mentioned in this passage were guilty of taking foreign wives, which was against God's commandments for the Israelites. By offering a ram of the flock for their trespass, they were seeking forgiveness and atonement for their actions. This act of sacrifice symbolized their desire to make amends and turn away from their sinful ways. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness for transgressions. It serves as a reminder that God's laws are to be obeyed and that when we fall short, there is a path to reconciliation through sincere repentance and offering of sacrifices. Word studies on terms such as "trespass" and "ram of the flock" can provide additional insights into the cultural and religious context of this passage, shedding light on the significance of the actions described.

American Standard Version

And they gave their hand that they would put away their wives; and being guilty, [they offered] a ram of the flock for their guilt.
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