Definition: And they gave their hands that they would put away their wives; and [being] guilty, [they offered] a ram of the flock for their trespass.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezra 10:19. It’s a really powerful and disturbing story about a serious mistake. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: A Problem: The Jewish people in the time of Ezra were experiencing a significant problem – they had lost faith and weren't following God’s laws properly. They were essentially living in a state of rebellion against God. A Choice: They made a terrible choice: They gave their hands . This is a really shocking and symbolic action. It meant they willingly surrendered their hands, which are typically associated with intimacy and connection – like being part of a family unit. The Punishment: As a consequence of this act, they offered a ram of the flock (a valuable animal) as a sacrifice to God. Offering a sacrifice was a way for people to show remorse and ask for forgiveness. What it Means on a Deeper Level: This verse speaks to a profound moment of shame and regret. It's not just about giving up a hand; it’s about completely abandoning their connection with God and with each other. It highlights: Broken Faith: They had lost their faith in the way they were living. Loss of Community: Their actions broke the bonds of their community, which was vital for maintaining their religious practices and moral standards. Severe Consequences: The offering of a ram – a significant animal – is a clear sign that they were deeply humbled and facing severe consequences for their transgression. Important Note: The verse doesn’t tell us why they made this choice. It's a moment of intense shame and a turning point in their history. In short, Ezra 10:19 describes a devastating act – a deliberate surrender of connection and trust – that led to a significant punishment for the Jewish people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this passage within the larger story of Israel’s history? Or perhaps delve into the symbolism behind giving your hands?