Ezra 9:12

Nowe therefore giue not your daughters vnto their sonnes, neither take their daughters vnto your sonnes, nor seeke their peace or their wealth for euer: that ye may bee strong, and eate the good of the land, and leaue it for an inheritance to your children for euer. Ezra 9:12 (KJV)

Now therefore give not your daughters unto their sons, neither take their daughters unto your sons, nor seek their peace or their wealth for ever: that ye may be strong, and eat the good of the land, and leave

it

for an inheritance to your children for ever. Ezra 9:12 (KJV)

The book of Ezra records the events that took place after the Babylonian exile when King Cyrus of Persia allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Ezra’s narrative focuses on the restoration of worship and the community’s covenant fidelity.

The verse commands the people not to give their daughters in marriage to the sons of the neighboring peoples, nor to take the daughters of those peoples for their own sons. This instruction was given to preserve the distinct identity of God’s people and to protect them from the influence of pagan practices and false gods of the surrounding nations.

It also warns against seeking peace or wealth from those neighboring nations. The warning serves as a reminder not to compromise faith or obedience to God’s commandments for temporary worldly benefits. The Israelites were to rely on God’s provision and trust in Him alone rather than forming alliances or depending on the wealth of other peoples.

By remaining separate from the surrounding nations and faithfully following God’s commandments, the Israelites would experience His blessings. They would be strong, enjoy the good of the land, and leave it as an inheritance to their children forever.

While the specific prohibition addresses intermarriage in its ancient context, the underlying principle can be applied today. Believers are called to guard their hearts, avoid compromising their faith for temporary gains or worldly acceptance, and remain distinct from values and practices contrary to biblical teaching. Trusting in God’s provision and seeking His will above all else secures a lasting spiritual inheritance.

Similar language concerning intermarriage is found in Deuteronomy 7:3, which warns the Israelites against marrying the peoples of the land.