Of the sons of Hashum; Mattenai, Mattathah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, and Shimei.
The verse belongs to the period of Ezra and Nehemiah with its Babylonian historical setting. It stands within the detailed account of the people's practical separation from the surrounding nations and the heathen under Ezra, a separation undertaken before they could be taught the law. It names seven men among the sons and family of Hashum — Mattenai, Mattathah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, and Shimei — who had married foreign wives and women and were thus included in Ezra's effort to separate the people from the heathen.
It is part of God's clear counsel and warning against marrying outside the Lord, which is to be carefully and prayerfully studied and willingly and cheerfully obeyed. Heeding this instruction gives important guidance and timely warning that prevents deep heartache and bitter anguish of heart, long years of painful regret, and repeated and frequent disappointment in marriage. Failing to study the duties of marriage beforehand leads to remorse and repentance that is both too soon and too late.
The verse belongs to the period of Ezra and Nehemiah with its Babylonian historical setting. It stands within the detailed account of the people's practical separation from the surrounding nations and the heathen under Ezra, a separation undertaken before they could be taught the law. It names seven men among the sons and family of Hashum — Mattenai, Mattathah, Zabad, Eliphelet, Jeremai, Manasseh, and Shimei — who had married foreign wives and women and were thus included in Ezra's effort to separate the people from the heathen.
It is part of God's clear counsel and warning against marrying outside the Lord, which is to be carefully and prayerfully studied and willingly and cheerfully obeyed. Heeding this instruction gives important guidance and timely warning that prevents deep heartache and bitter anguish of heart, long years of painful regret, and repeated and frequent disappointment in marriage. Failing to study the duties of marriage beforehand leads to remorse and repentance that is both too soon and too late.