Ezra 9:6 Meaning and Explanation
“And said, O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the heavens.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Ezra begins his prayer confessing shame, saying the people's sins have risen over their heads and their guilt reaches to the heavens.
What Does Ezra 9:6 Mean?
Here Ezra's great prayer of confession begins. He speaks as though too ashamed to lift his face, identifying himself with the people by saying 'our iniquities.' The images are vivid: sin like a flood rising past the head, guilt piled so high it reaches heaven itself.
Notice that Ezra prays 'our,' not 'their.' He stands with the guilty rather than apart from them, a stance that anticipates the One who would fully take His people's burden upon Himself. Honest shame before God is not self-hatred but truthfulness; only when sin is named for what it is can mercy be sought in earnest.
Ezra 9:6 in the Original Language
avon (עָוֹן), 'iniquities' -- guilt that bends and weighs a person down.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra 9:6
What does Ezra 9:6 mean?
Ezra begins his prayer confessing shame, saying the people's sins have risen over their heads and their guilt reaches to the heavens.