Definition: All these had taken strange wives: and [some] of them had wives by whom they had children.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezra 10:44. It’s a really important and somewhat unsettling part of the book of Ezra. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where some people in ancient Israel were engaging in a practice that was considered deeply wrong and shameful. It essentially says that a group of individuals had become involved in a ritualistic marriage – essentially, they were marrying partners who weren't related by blood, but through a secretive and often immoral arrangement. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “All these had taken strange wives…” This is the key phrase. “Strange wives” means that these individuals were participating in a practice called circumcision . This wasn't just a regular, simple circumcision; it was a ritualistic one, often involving a secret agreement and a ritualistic ceremony. “[Some] of them had wives by whom they had children.” This tells us that some of these individuals were married to women who weren’t their own blood relatives. This is the most concerning part. It suggests a lack of proper family connection, potentially involving deception or a violation of religious laws. What's the Significance? This verse is significant because it highlights: Moral Corruption: It points to a period when there was a serious problem with morality and faithfulness within the Jewish community. The practice of circumcision was central to Jewish identity, and this verse reveals a deviation from that tradition. Disobedience to God’s Law: The practice of marrying partners who weren't related by blood was considered a breach of God’s law and covenant with Israel. It demonstrated a lack of respect for the established religious guidelines. Important Context (Briefly): Ezra 10:44 is part of a larger narrative in Ezra 1-5, which focuses on the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem after a period of exile. This verse reveals a significant challenge to the Jewish community’s adherence to God’s law and their commitment to rebuilding their nation. In short, this passage describes a situation where some members of the Jewish community were involved in a ritual marriage that violated religious laws and traditions. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Ezra 10? Discuss the historical context more deeply? Translate it into simpler language?