IX.
(1) NOW WHEN THESE THINGS WERE DONE. — The remainder of the book is
occupied with the execution of Ezra’s function as a moral reformer.
One chief disorder is mentioned, that of the mixed marriages (Ezra
9:2), which the new lawgiver evidently regarded as fatal to the purity
of the Divine service... [ Continue Reading ]
(5-15) Ezra’s prayer of confession and deprecation.
(5) AND AT THE EVENING SACRIFICE I AROSE UP. — Until the afternoon
Ezra had sat silent and in grief before the Temple, and in presence of
the people. Then, amidst the solemnities of the sacrifice, he uttered
the prayer which he had been meditating.... [ Continue Reading ]