EZRA 9

EZRA’S CONCERN ABOUT THE WIVES OF THE EXILES

Ezra is approached by Israelite officials and told that many of the recently returned Israelites are marrying people from foreign nations, including the Canaanites, Hittites, Moabites, Ammonites, and Egyptians. Ezra is appalled by this news, mourning and ashamed before God.

Without context, this passage of scripture can appear nationalistic or even racist. It is important to note that God is not opposing interracial or international marriage. Instead, Ezra is concerned that the newly returned Israelites are vulnerable and sees marrying across enemy nations as unwise or sinful. Many of these nations listed have previously oppressed or opposed Israel and celebrated their earlier downfall.

Ezra deeply desires for the Israelites to remain faithful to God and not become rebellious once again. Ezra’s concern about their foreign marriages shows his worry around spiritual and political implications or distractions.