Definition: Then arose Ezra, and made the chief priests, the Levites, and all Israel, to swear that they should do according to this word. And they sware.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezra 10:5. It's a really important moment in Jewish history – it’s about a shift in religious practice after a period of trouble. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it means: “Ezra, a leader, called together a group of people – the priests, the Levites (who were responsible for carrying out rituals), and all of Israel – to swear or make a solemn agreement with God. They reaffirmed their commitment to follow what he says." Let’s unpack it a little further: “Then arose Ezra…” : This tells us that Ezra was the person who initiated this action. “…and made…” : He took the initiative, started the process. “…the chief priests, the Levites, and all Israel…” : This is a big group. It includes leaders of the religious community – the priests, the people responsible for carrying out rituals (like sacrifices), and everyone within the Jewish community. “…to swear that they should do according to this word.” : This is the key part. They were making a declaration – an oath – that they would now obey a specific set of rules or instructions given by God. “And they sware.” : They formally pledged their allegiance and commitment to follow these guidelines. Why was this important? This event happened after a period where there was conflict and perhaps a loss of faith among the Jewish people. The promise of a renewed covenant with God, and the restoration of religious practice, is linked here – this act of swearing signified a return to what they believed to be right and holy. Context is key: It’s important to remember that this passage comes from a very specific historical context. It's part of a larger story about rebuilding and restoring a Jewish community after a time of crisis. --- Do you want me to: Explain a different verse? Provide more detail about the historical context?