Ezra 6:21
And the children of Israel, which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the LORD God of Israel, did eat,
Ezra 6:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Ezra in the Old Testament of the Bible describes a significant moment in the history of the children of Israel. It tells of a time when the Israelites, who had returned from captivity, came together with those who had separated themselves from the ways of the heathen in the land to seek the Lord God of Israel. This gathering was not just a social event or a simple meal; it was a symbolic act of unity and dedication to their faith. By coming together to eat, the people were reaffirming their commitment to following the ways of God and distancing themselves from the impurities of the surrounding culture. This act of shared worship and fellowship served as a powerful testimony to their devotion and loyalty to their God. It also served as a reminder of the importance of staying true to their beliefs and living in accordance with the teachings of the Lord. This verse reminds us of the significance of communal worship and the power of coming together in faith to seek God's presence in our lives.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the children of Israel are depicted as returning from captivity and distancing themselves from the impurities of the heathen in order to seek the Lord God of Israel. The act of separating themselves from the filthiness of the heathen can be seen as a symbolic representation of spiritual purification and a commitment to worshiping the one true God. The word 'filthiness' can be interpreted as referring to idolatry, sin, or immorality that the heathen engaged in. By choosing to separate themselves from these practices, the children of Israel are making a conscious decision to dedicate themselves to seeking the Lord God. This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual purity and devotion in the worship of God. It serves as a reminder to believers to continually strive to distance themselves from sinful influences and to wholeheartedly seek after the Lord in their lives.
Ezra 6:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the children of Israel that were come again out of the captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the nations of the land, to seek Jehovah, the God of Israel, did eat,
World English Bible
The children of Israel who had come again out of the captivity, and all such as had separated themselves to them from the filthiness of the nations of the land, to seek Yahweh, the God of Israel, ate,
Douay-Rheims
And the children of Israel that were returned from captivity, and all that had separated themselves from the filthiness of the nations of the earth to them, to seek the Lord the God of Israel, did eat.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So the children of Israel which were come againe out of captiuitie, and all such as had separated themselues vnto them, from the filthines of the Heathen of the land, to seeke the Lord God of Israel, did eate,