Ezra 10:41

Azarel, Shelemiah, Shemariah,

Study Bible

Azarel
Azarel is a name that appears in various contexts within the Old Testament, often associated with the tribe of Levi or other priestly lines. The name means "God has helped," which reflects a common theme in Hebrew names where the character or destiny of a person is tied to their relationship with God. In the context of Ezra 10, Azarel is listed among those who had taken foreign wives, which was against the Mosaic Law. This highlights the ongoing struggle of the Israelites to maintain their distinct identity and covenant relationship with God amidst surrounding pagan cultures. The call to separate from foreign influences is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, emphasizing the need for holiness and purity in worship.

Shelemiah
Shelemiah is another name that appears multiple times in the Old Testament, often associated with priestly or Levitical duties. The name means "God has repaid" or "God is peace," indicating a divine recompense or tranquility. In Ezra 10, Shelemiah is listed among those who had intermarried with foreign women, which was a significant issue for the post-exilic community striving to reestablish their identity and faithfulness to God's commandments. This reflects the broader narrative of Israel's history, where obedience to God's law was crucial for receiving His blessings and maintaining peace within the community. The inclusion of Shelemiah in this list underscores the importance of repentance and returning to God's ways.

Shemariah
Shemariah, meaning "God has kept" or "God guards," is a name that signifies divine protection and faithfulness. In the context of Ezra 10, Shemariah is among those who had taken foreign wives, highlighting the challenge of remaining faithful to God's covenant in a diverse and often hostile cultural environment. This situation is reminiscent of other biblical accounts where the Israelites struggled with idolatry and assimilation into surrounding nations, leading to spiritual and social consequences. The call to separate from foreign influences and return to God's law is a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament, pointing to the need for a faithful remnant who would uphold God's standards and prepare the way for the coming Messiah.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Azarel
A member of the Israelite community who was involved in the issue of intermarriage with foreign women, which was against the Mosaic Law.

2. Shelemiah
Another individual listed among those who had taken foreign wives, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem.

3. Shemariah
Also part of the group needing to repent and separate from foreign influences to restore covenant faithfulness.

Teaching Points

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

Repentance and Restoration
The actions taken in Ezra 10 demonstrate the necessity of repentance to restore one's relationship with God. True repentance involves both confession and action.

Guarding Against Compromise
The intermarriages represented a compromise of faith. Believers today must be vigilant against influences that can lead them away from their commitment to God.

Community Accountability
The communal response to the sin of intermarriage shows the role of community in holding each other accountable to God's standards.

The Role of Leadership
Ezra's leadership was crucial in guiding the people back to faithfulness. Spiritual leaders today have a responsibility to lead with integrity and courage.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the consequences of the Israelites' disobedience in marrying foreign women, and how does this apply to our lives today?

2. How does the concept of repentance in Ezra 10 compare to New Testament teachings on repentance?

3. In what ways can we guard against spiritual compromise in our personal and communal lives?

4. How can we as a church community support each other in maintaining faithfulness to God's commands?

5. What qualities of Ezra's leadership can we emulate in our own roles within the church and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 9
Provides context for Ezra 10, where Ezra learns of the intermarriages and prays for the people's repentance.

Deuteronomy 7:3-4
The law against intermarriage with foreign nations, which was intended to prevent the Israelites from turning to other gods.

Nehemiah 13:23-27
Nehemiah also deals with the issue of intermarriage, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity in worship and community.

1 Corinthians 7:39
Discusses the importance of marrying "in the Lord," which echoes the principle of maintaining spiritual unity in marriage.