Ezra 5:10

Authorized King James Version

We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאַ֧ף
also
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
#2
שֻׁם
the names
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#3
שְׁאֵ֥לְנָא
We asked
to ask
#4
לְּהֹ֖ם
H0
#5
לְהוֹדָֽעוּתָ֑ךְ
to certify
to inform
#6
דִּ֛י
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
#7
נִכְתֻּ֥ב
thee that we might write
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
#8
שֻׁם
the names
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#9
גֻּבְרַיָּ֖א
of the men
a person
#10
דִּ֥י
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
#11
בְרָֽאשֵׁיהֹֽם׃
that were the chief
the head; figuratively, the sum

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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