Ezra 10:35

Benaiah, Bedeiah, Chelluh,

Ezra 10:35 (KJV)

Context

Ezra 10:35 appears in a long list of names (Ezra 10:18–44). These men had married foreign wives during the return from exile in Babylon. The people had sinned against God by marrying those who worshiped other gods. Ezra led the nation in prayer and confession, and the people made a covenant to obey God’s law. This list records those who took part in that promise.

Meaning

Benaiah, Bedeiah, and Chelluh are not described in detail. Their importance comes from being named publicly as people who confessed their sin and agreed to put away their foreign wives. This was a costly and humbling step. The listing of each name shows that God values every person. Repentance is not only a group action; it is personal. Each man had to take responsibility for his own choices.

Biblical connections

The command against intermarriage with pagan nations goes back to Deuteronomy 7:3–4. God warned that such marriages could turn the hearts of His people away from Him. This warning had already come true, leading to the exile. In Ezra’s time, the people had to act decisively to restore holiness and keep their covenant with God.

Application

These names remind us that sin is not just a general problem. It shows up in specific choices. When we discover compromise in our lives, we must deal with it directly. We may need the support of other believers to take difficult steps. True repentance leads to concrete change, not just regret.

Reflection

God knows each of us by name, just as He knew these men. He sees our failures and our willingness to be corrected. The grace of God provides a way back through confession and turning from sin. This verse encourages us to examine our own hearts and to trust that God forgives those who humble themselves.