Ezra 10:18 Meaning and Explanation
“And among the sons of the priests there were found that had taken strange wives: namely, of the sons of Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren; Maaseiah, and Eliezer, and Jarib, and Gedaliah.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The list of those involved begins with priests, including descendants of the high priest Jeshua.
What Does Ezra 10:18 Mean?
The roll of those found in this trespass now begins, and strikingly it opens with the priests, the men set apart to serve at the altar and to teach God's law. Among them were descendants of Jeshua, son of Jozadak, the high priest who had helped rebuild the temple. Four are named: Maaseiah, Eliezer, Jarib, and Gedaliah. The reform spares no one on account of office.
That the list begins with priests is sobering. Those nearest to holy things were not exempt from failure, and they are named first, not last. Spiritual privilege brings greater accountability, not immunity. Scripture is honest about the sins of its leaders, recording them without flattery, so that no reader mistakes position for righteousness. The priesthood pointed forward to a greater High Priest, holy and undefiled, who alone among all who have served never needed to confess a sin of His own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra 10:18
What does Ezra 10:18 mean?
The list of those involved begins with priests, including descendants of the high priest Jeshua.