Since the days of our fathers have we been in a great trespass unto this day; and for our iniquities have we, our kings, and our priests, been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, and to a spoil, and to confusion of face, as it is this day.
From the time of our ancestors until now, we have been guilty of great sins. Because of our wrongdoing, we, our kings, and our priests have been handed over to foreign rulers who have conquered us with the sword, taken us captive, robbed us, and brought shame upon us, just as we see today.
Ezra is acknowledging that Israel's long history of disobedience to God has led to generations of defeat, exile, and shame at the hands of foreign nations.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Ezra, which describes the Jewish people's return from exile in Babylon around 458 BC, this verse is part of Ezra's heartfelt prayer of confession on behalf of the nation. He reflects on how their ancestors' persistent sins, such as idolatry and disobedience to God's laws, led to generations of punishment including conquest, captivity, and humiliation by foreign kings. This moment highlights the ongoing effects of sin even after the exiles had begun rebuilding their lives in Jerusalem.
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