That isn’t the end of the situation, however
The publication from Ezra concludes parhaat paikat tavata naisia verkossa with among the many sadder themes inside redemptive history. After the priest Ezra requires the brand new frontrunners of one’s article-exilic Jewish society, tough of working rebuilding the newest temple when you look at the Jerusalem, he leads the individuals inside recommitting themselves so you’re able to fidelity toward legislation. He then get disturbing information. They are advised your returnees “haven’t split up themselves on the peoples of your own countries having its abominations, on the Canaanites, the latest Hittites, the fresh new Perizzites, the fresh Jebusites, brand new Ammonites, the new Moabites, the new Egyptians, in addition to Amorites.” Instead, the individuals have intermarried: “brand new holy battle provides blended alone towards individuals of one’s lands” (Ezra 9:1-2).
Horrified, Ezra leads individuals during the a method from repentance. One of many Jewish management, Shecaniah, comes to Ezra that have an agenda:
I’ve damaged faith with these God while having hitched international feminine about individuals of one’s home, however, even now there was expect Israel in spite of which. Thus why don’t we build an excellent covenant with these God to place away each one of these wives and their people, according to counsel regarding my personal Lord as well as individuals who tremble on commandment of one’s Jesus, and you can allow it to be done with respect to the Legislation. (Ezra 10:2-3)