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,
The Israelites who had returned from being prisoners in foreign lands, along with everyone who had turned away from the corrupt practices of the surrounding nations to follow the LORD God of Israel, ate together.
The writer is describing how both returning Jewish exiles and local converts came together to worship God and share a meal, united in their commitment to follow the LORD.
📚 Historical Context
This verse refers to the celebration of Passover after the Jewish exiles returned from Babylon around 538-515 BC and rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem. Some local inhabitants who had adopted pagan practices during the exile chose to abandon those ways and join the returning Jews in worshiping the true God.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.