Ezra 9:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezra 9:10
10 And now, O our God, what shall we say after this? for we have forsaken thy commandments,
Chapter Context
Ezra 9 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, sacrifice, faith. Written during the post-exilic return (c. 458-440 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The Persian Empire allowed religious freedom while maintaining political control.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-15: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezra and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezra 9:10
10 And now, O our God, what shall we say after this? for we have forsaken thy commandments,
Analysis
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.
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.
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?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)