Ezra 9:10
And now, O our God, what shall we say after this? for we have forsaken thy commandments,
Original Language Analysis
וְעַתָּ֛ה
H6258
מַה
H4100
מַה
Strong's:
H4100
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
אֱלֹהֵ֖ינוּ
And now O our God
H430
אֱלֹהֵ֖ינוּ
And now O our God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
4 of 9
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
אַֽחֲרֵי
after
H310
אַֽחֲרֵי
after
Strong's:
H310
Word #:
5 of 9
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
כִּ֥י
H3588
כִּ֥י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
7 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Historical Context
The rhetorical question emphasizes that after experiencing God's covenant faithfulness (return from exile, temple restoration, Persian favor), renewed sin is inexcusable. They had no ignorance excuse—Torah was clear, recent history demonstrated consequences, and they sinned anyway. The confession's direct, unvarnished language ('we have forsaken thy commandments') avoids euphemism or excuse-making. This brutal honesty characterizes biblical repentance versus worldly regret that justifies, minimizes, or blames others.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the question 'what shall we say after this?' demonstrate that genuine repentance has no excuses, only confession?
- What does straightforward admission 'we have forsaken thy commandments' teach about avoiding euphemism or excuse-making in confession?
Analysis & Commentary
The rhetorical question: 'And now, O our God, what shall we say after this? for we have forsaken thy commandments.' This acknowledges speechlessness before God—what defense can be offered after receiving mercy? The confession 'we have forsaken thy commandments' admits willful violation, not ignorant mistake. This is covenant breaking, not mere failure. The question format demonstrates that genuine repentance recognizes it has no excuse, no justification, no mitigation to plead. Standing guilty before God with no defense is the beginning of true repentance.