Ezra 10:37

Mattaniah, Mattenai, and Jaasu.

Study Bible

Mattaniah
Mattaniah is a name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often associated with individuals who played significant roles in Israel's history. The name means "Gift of Yahweh," reflecting a common practice of the Israelites to incorporate the name of God into personal names, signifying a dedication or blessing from God. In the context of Ezra 10, Mattaniah is one of the Israelites who had taken foreign wives, which was against the Mosaic Law (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). This highlights the recurring theme of Israel's struggle to maintain purity and obedience to God's commandments. The name also appears in 2 Kings 24:17, where Mattaniah is the original name of King Zedekiah, the last king of Judah, before his name was changed by Nebuchadnezzar. This connection underscores the importance of names and their meanings in biblical narratives.

Mattenai
Mattenai is another name listed among those who had taken foreign wives. The name is similar to Mattaniah, suggesting a possible linguistic or cultural connection. The repetition of similar names in the genealogies and lists of the Bible often indicates the commonality of certain names within the Israelite community, reflecting cultural and familial traditions. The presence of Mattenai in this list serves as a reminder of the widespread nature of the issue Ezra was addressing. It also emphasizes the communal aspect of repentance and reform, as the entire community was called to return to the covenantal faithfulness required by God. This communal repentance is a theme seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in the reforms of King Josiah (2 Kings 23).

Jaasu
Jaasu is another individual mentioned in the list of those who had taken foreign wives. The inclusion of Jaasu, along with others, highlights the personal and communal responsibility in adhering to God's laws. The name Jaasu is less common, and its meaning is not as well-documented as some other biblical names, but it still contributes to the narrative of collective repentance and restoration. The act of listing these names in Ezra 10 serves as a public acknowledgment of sin and a commitment to change, which is a recurring theme in the Bible. This public confession and renunciation of sin can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament call for repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and restoration to all who believe (Acts 3:19).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mattaniah
A name meaning "Gift of Yahweh." In the context of Ezra 10, Mattaniah is one of the Israelites who had taken foreign wives, which was against the Law of Moses. This highlights the issue of intermarriage with pagan nations, which was a significant concern for maintaining the purity of the Israelite community.

2. Mattenai
Another individual listed among those who had taken foreign wives. His inclusion in this list underscores the widespread nature of the problem and the need for communal repentance and reform.

3. Jaasu
Also listed among those who had taken foreign wives. The repetition of names in this chapter emphasizes the collective responsibility and the need for individual accountability in the community's spiritual renewal.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites' disobedience in marrying foreign wives serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's commands. Obedience is crucial for maintaining a relationship with God and ensuring the community's spiritual health.

Community Accountability
The collective action taken by the Israelites to address the issue of intermarriage highlights the role of community in holding each other accountable. As believers, we are called to support and correct one another in love.

Repentance and Renewal
The actions taken in Ezra 10 demonstrate the power of repentance and the possibility of renewal. No matter how far we stray, God offers a path back to Him through genuine repentance.

Guarding Against Compromise
The Israelites' situation warns against compromising one's faith through relationships that can lead us away from God. We must be vigilant in maintaining our spiritual integrity.

The Role of Leadership
Ezra's leadership in addressing the issue of intermarriage shows the importance of strong, godly leadership in guiding a community back to faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the inclusion of specific names in Ezra 10:37 teach us about individual accountability within a community of faith?

2. How can we apply the principle of community accountability in our own church or small group settings?

3. In what ways does the issue of intermarriage in Ezra 10 relate to the New Testament teachings on marriage and spiritual compatibility?

4. How can we guard against spiritual compromise in our personal relationships today?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our leaders are equipped to guide us in faithfulness to God's commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
This passage warns the Israelites against intermarrying with the surrounding nations to prevent them from turning away from God. The situation in Ezra 10 is a direct violation of this command, showing the importance of obedience to God's laws.

Nehemiah 13:23-27
Nehemiah also deals with the issue of intermarriage, reinforcing the theme of maintaining the distinctiveness of God's people and the consequences of disobedience.

1 Corinthians 7:39
In the New Testament, Paul advises believers to marry "only in the Lord," which echoes the Old Testament concern for spiritual compatibility in marriage.