Ezra 10:26

From the descendants of Elam: Mattaniah, Zechariah, Jehiel, Abdi, Jeremoth, and Elijah.

Study Bible

From the descendants of Elam
The mention of "Elam" here refers to a family lineage within the Israelite community. Historically, Elam was a region east of Mesopotamia, but in this context, it signifies a clan or family group among the Israelites. The descendants of Elam were part of the exiles who returned to Jerusalem. This highlights the importance of family and tribal identity in post-exilic Israel, emphasizing the restoration of the community according to ancestral lines.

Mattaniah
The name "Mattaniah" means "gift of Yahweh" in Hebrew. This name reflects the deep-seated tradition of naming children in a way that acknowledges God's sovereignty and benevolence. In the context of Ezra, it underscores the hope and renewal that the returning exiles experienced, as they saw themselves as recipients of God's grace and favor.

Zechariah
"Zechariah" means "Yahweh remembers." This name is significant in the context of the return from exile, as it serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. The inclusion of Zechariah in this list symbolizes the hope that God has not forgotten His people, even after their period of judgment and exile.

Jehiel
The name "Jehiel" translates to "God lives" or "may God live." This name is a testament to the enduring belief in the living God who sustains and preserves His people. In the post-exilic community, such names would have been a source of encouragement, affirming their faith in God's active presence and involvement in their restoration.

Abdi
"Abdi" means "my servant" in Hebrew. This name reflects a posture of humility and service before God. In the context of Ezra, it highlights the call for the Israelites to return to a life of obedience and service to God, aligning themselves with His will as they rebuild their community and temple.

Jeremoth
The name "Jeremoth" is less clear in its meaning, but it is often associated with "heights" or "elevations." This could symbolize aspirations towards spiritual elevation or a return to a higher standard of living according to God's laws. In the narrative of Ezra, it may represent the community's desire to rise above their past failures and live in accordance with God's commandments.

Elijah
"Elijah" means "my God is Yahweh." This name is a powerful declaration of faith and allegiance to the one true God. In the context of the return from exile, it serves as a bold statement of identity and commitment to Yahweh amidst a world of competing deities and influences. Elijah's inclusion in this list reinforces the central theme of covenant faithfulness and the re-establishment of Israel's unique relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elam
A family or clan within the Israelite community. The descendants of Elam were among those who had taken foreign wives, which was against the Law of Moses.

2. Mattaniah
One of the descendants of Elam who was involved in the issue of intermarriage with foreign women.

3. Zechariah
Another descendant of Elam, sharing in the same transgression as Mattaniah.

4. Jehiel
Also a descendant of Elam, listed among those who had married foreign women.

5. Abdi, Jeremoth, and Elijah
Additional descendants of Elam, all implicated in the same issue of intermarriage.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites' disobedience in marrying foreign women was a direct violation of God's commands. This highlights the importance of adhering to God's Word in all aspects of life.

Community Accountability
The listing of names signifies the communal responsibility in addressing sin. It reminds us that our actions affect the broader community of believers.

Repentance and Restoration
The chapter emphasizes the need for repentance and the steps toward restoration. It encourages believers to seek forgiveness and make amends when they stray from God's path.

Guarding Against Compromise
The issue of intermarriage serves as a metaphor for spiritual compromise. Believers are called to guard their hearts and lives against influences that can lead them away from God.

The Role of Leadership
Ezra's leadership in addressing the sin of intermarriage underscores the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide their communities in righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the inclusion of specific names in Ezra 10:26 teach us about personal accountability in our spiritual lives?

2. How can the issue of intermarriage in Ezra 10 be related to modern-day challenges of maintaining spiritual purity?

3. In what ways does the community's response to sin in Ezra 10 serve as a model for how the church should address sin today?

4. How do the commands in Deuteronomy 7:3-4 relate to the events in Ezra 10, and what can we learn about the consequences of disobedience?

5. What role does repentance play in restoring one's relationship with God, and how can we apply this in our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 9
Provides context for Ezra 10, detailing the problem of intermarriage and the spiritual and communal implications for Israel.

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
Offers the original command against intermarriage with foreign nations, highlighting the risk of turning away from God.

Nehemiah 13:23-27
Describes a similar issue of intermarriage and the steps taken to address it, reinforcing the importance of maintaining purity in worship and community.