Ezra 10:12

Then all the congregation answered and said with a loud voice, As thou hast said, so must we do.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּֽעְנ֧וּ

H6030

answered

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

כָֽל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַקָּהָ֛ל

H6951

Then all the congregation

assemblage (usually concretely)

וַיֹּֽאמְר֖וּ

H559

and said

to say (used with great latitude)

ק֣וֹל

H6963

voice

a voice or sound

גָּד֑וֹל

H1419

with a loud

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

כֵּ֛ן

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

כִּדְבָרְיךָ֥

H1697

As thou hast said

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

עָלֵ֖ינוּ

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#10

לַֽעֲשֽׂוֹת׃

H6213

so must we do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ezra. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ezra Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?