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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Ezra 8:22 For I was ashamed to ask the king for an escort of soldiers and horsemen to protect us from our enemies on the road, since we had told him, "The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek Him, but His great anger is against all who forsake Him."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ezra/8-22.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/2/15_Ezr_08_22.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ezra 8:22 - Fasting for Protection" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For I was ashamed to ask the king for an escort of soldiers and horsemen to protect us from our enemies on the road, since we had told him, The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek Him, but His great anger is against all who forsake Him." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/ezra/8-22.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/ezra/8-22.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/ezra/">Ezra</a> > <a href="/ezra/8.htm">Chapter 8</a> > Verse 22</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad2.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/ezra/8-21.htm" title="Ezra 8:21">◄</a> Ezra 8:22 <a href="/ezra/8-23.htm" title="Ezra 8:23">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/ezra/8.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/ezra/8.htm">New International Version</a> I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, &#8220The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/ezra/8.htm">New Living Translation</a> For I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to accompany us and protect us from enemies along the way. After all, we had told the king, “Our God’s hand of protection is on all who worship him, but his fierce anger rages against those who abandon him.” <a href="/esv/ezra/8.htm">English Standard Version</a> For I was ashamed to ask the king for a band of soldiers and horsemen to protect us against the enemy on our way, since we had told the king, “The hand of our God is for good on all who seek him, and the power of his wrath is against all who forsake him.” <a href="/bsb/ezra/8.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For I was ashamed to ask the king for an escort of soldiers and horsemen to protect us from our enemies on the road, since we had told him, “The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek Him, but His great anger is against all who forsake Him.” <a href="/kjv/ezra/8.htm">King James Bible</a> For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him. <a href="/nkjv/ezra/8.htm">New King James Version</a> For I was ashamed to request of the king an escort of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy on the road, because we had spoken to the king, saying, “The hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, but His power and His wrath are against all those who forsake Him.” <a href="/nasb_/ezra/8.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For I was ashamed to request from the king troops and horsemen to protect us from the enemy on the way, because we had said to the king, “The hand of our God is favorably disposed to all who seek Him, but His power and His anger are against all those who abandon Him.” <a href="/nasb/ezra/8.htm">NASB 1995</a> For I was ashamed to request from the king troops and horsemen to protect us from the enemy on the way, because we had said to the king, &#8220The hand of our God is favorably disposed to all those who seek Him, but His power and His anger are against all those who forsake Him.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/ezra/8.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For I was ashamed to request from the king troops and horsemen to protect us from the enemy on the way, because we had said to the king, “The hand of our God is favorably disposed to all those who seek Him, but His power and His anger are against all those who forsake Him.” <a href="/lsb/ezra/8.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For I was ashamed to ask from the king for a military force and horsemen to help us against the enemy on the way, because we had said to the king, “The hand of our God is upon all those who seek Him, for their good, but His strength and His anger are against all those who forsake Him.” <a href="/amp/ezra/8.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For I was ashamed to request troops and horsemen from the king to protect us from the enemy along the way, because we had told the king, “The hand of our God is favorable toward all those who seek Him, but His power and His anger are against all those who abandon (turn away from) Him.” <a href="/csb/ezra/8.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> I did this because I was ashamed to ask the king for infantry and cavalry to protect us from enemies during the journey, since we had told him, “The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek him, but his fierce anger is against all who abandon him.” <a href="/hcsb/ezra/8.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> I did this because I was ashamed to ask the king for infantry and cavalry to protect us from enemies during the journey, since we had told him, &#8220The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek Him, but His great anger is against all who abandon Him.&#8221 <a href="/asv/ezra/8.htm">American Standard Version</a> For I was ashamed to ask of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way, because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them that seek him, for good; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him. <a href="/cev/ezra/8.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I was ashamed to ask the king to send soldiers and cavalry to protect us against enemies along the way. After all, we had told the king that our God takes care of everyone who truly worships him, but that he gets very angry and punishes anyone who refuses to obey. <a href="/erv/ezra/8.htm">English Revised Version</a> For I was ashamed to ask of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them that seek him, for good; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him. <a href="/gwt/ezra/8.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> I was ashamed to ask the king for an armed escort with cavalry to help us against an enemy attack on the way. We had already told the king, "Our God works things out for the good of everyone who dedicates his life to serving him, but his power and his anger oppose everyone who abandons him." <a href="/gnt/ezra/8.htm">Good News Translation</a> I would have been ashamed to ask the emperor for a troop of cavalry to guard us from any enemies during our journey, because I had told him that our God blesses everyone who trusts him, but that he is displeased with and punishes anyone who turns away from him. <a href="/isv/ezra/8.htm">International Standard Version</a> because I was ashamed to ask the king for a contingent of soldiers and cavalry to protect us from enemies we might encounter on the way. After all, we had told the king, "The hand of our God seeks the good of all who seek him, but his power and anger are against everyone who forsakes him." <a href="/msb/ezra/8.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For I was ashamed to ask the king for an escort of soldiers and horsemen to protect us from our enemies on the road, since we had told him, ?The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek Him, but His great anger is against all who forsake Him.? <a href="/net/ezra/8.htm">NET Bible</a> I was embarrassed to request soldiers and horsemen from the king to protect us from the enemy along the way, because we had said to the king, "The good hand of our God is on everyone who is seeking him, but his great anger is against everyone who forsakes him." <a href="/nheb/ezra/8.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For I was ashamed to ask of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way, because we had spoken to the king, saying, "The hand of our God is on all those who seek him, for good; but his power and his wrath is against all those who forsake him." <a href="/wbt/ezra/8.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken to the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him. <a href="/web/ezra/8.htm">World English Bible</a> For I was ashamed to ask of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy on the way, because we had spoken to the king, saying, “The hand of our God is on all those who seek him, for good; but his power and his wrath is against all those who forsake him.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/ezra/8.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for I was ashamed to ask from the king a force and horsemen to help us because of the enemy in the way, for we spoke to the king, saying, “The hand of our God [is] on all seeking Him for good, and His strength and His wrath [is] on all forsaking Him.” <a href="/ylt/ezra/8.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for I was ashamed to ask from the king a force and horsemen to help us because of the enemy in the way, for we spake to the king, saying, 'The hand of our God is upon all seeking Him for good, and His strength and His wrath is upon all forsaking Him.' <a href="/slt/ezra/8.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For I was ashamed to ask from the king strength and horsemen to help us from the enemy in the way: for we said to the king, saying, The hand of our God upon all seeking him for good; and his strength and his anger against all forsaking him.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/ezra/8.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For I was ashamed to ask the king for aid and for horsemen, to defend us from the enemy in the way: because we had said to the king: The hand of our God is upon all them that seek him in goodness: and his power and strength, and wrath upon all them that forsake him. <a href="/cpdv/ezra/8.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For I was ashamed to petition the king for assistance and for horsemen, who would defend us from the enemy along the way. For we had said to the king: “The hand of our God is over all those who seek him in goodness. And his authority, and his strength and fury, is over all those who forsake him.” <a href="/nabre/ezra/8.htm">New American Bible</a> For I was ashamed to ask the king for troops and horsemen to protect us against enemies along the way, since we had said to the king, “The favoring hand of our God is over all who seek him, but his fierce anger is against all who forsake him.” <a href="/nrsvce/ezra/8.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For I was ashamed to ask the king for a band of soldiers and cavalry to protect us against the enemy on our way, since we had told the king that the hand of our God is gracious to all who seek him, but his power and his wrath are against all who forsake him.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/ezra/8.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For I was ashamed to ask of the king a band of soldiers, an army and horsemen to help us against the enemy on the way, because we had spoken to the king, saying, The hand of our God is with all of those who seek him for good; but his power and his wrath are against all who forsake him. <a href="/hpbt/ezra/8.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Because I was embarrassed that I would ask from the King an army and horsemen that they would help us from our enemies in the way, because we were saying to the King: “The hand of God is with everyone who seeks him for good, and his strength and his anger is against all who leave him.”<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/ezra/8.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> For I was ashamed to ask of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way; because we had spoken unto the king, saying: 'The hand of our God is upon all them that seek Him, for good; but His power and His wrath is against all them that forsake Him.' <a href="/sep/ezra/8.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> For I was ashamed to ask of the king a guard and horsemen to save us from the enemy in the way: for we had spoken to the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all that seek him, for good; but his power and his wrath are upon all that forsake him. <a href="/parallel/ezra/8-22.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sh6ec6iQe9M?start=2096" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/ezra/8.htm">Fasting for Protection</a> 21And there by the Ahava Canal I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask Him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. 22<a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">For</a> <a href="/hebrew/954.htm" title="954: ḇō·šə·tî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- To be ashamed. A primitive root; properly, to pale, i.e. By implication to be ashamed; also to be disappointed or delayed.">I was ashamed</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: ham·me·leḵ (Art:: N-ms) -- King. From malak; a king.">to ask the king</a> <a href="/hebrew/7592.htm" title="7592: liš·’ō·wl (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To ask, inquire. Or shael; a primitive root; to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand.">for</a> <a href="/hebrew/2428.htm" title="2428: ḥa·yil (N-ms) -- From chuwl; probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength.">an escort of soldiers</a> <a href="/hebrew/6571.htm" title="6571: ū·p̄ā·rā·šîm (Conj-w:: N-mp) -- A steed, a driver, cavalry. From parash; a steed (compare cuwc); also a driver, i.e. cavalry.">and horsemen</a> <a href="/hebrew/5826.htm" title="5826: lə·‘ā·zə·rê·nū (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf:: 1cp) -- To help, succor. A primitive root; to surround, i.e. Protect or aid.">to protect us</a> <a href="/hebrew/4480.htm" title="4480: min- (Prep) -- From. Or minniy; or minney; for men; properly, a part of; hence, from or out of in many senses.">from</a> <a href="/hebrew/341.htm" title="341: mê·’ō·w·yêḇ (Prep-m:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- Hating, an adversary. Or owyeb; active participle of 'ayab; hating; an adversary.">our enemies</a> <a href="/hebrew/1870.htm" title="1870: bad·dā·reḵ (Prep-b, Art:: N-cs) -- Way, road, distance, journey, manner. From darak; a road; figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb.">on the road,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">since</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: ’ā·mar·nū (V-Qal-Perf-1cp) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">we had told him,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: lam·me·leḵ (Prep-l, Art:: N-ms) -- King. From malak; a king."></a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: lê·mōr (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3027.htm" title="3027: yaḏ- (N-fsc) -- Hand (indicating power, means, direction, etc.)">“The hand</a> <a href="/hebrew/430.htm" title="430: ’ĕ·lō·hê·nū (N-mpc:: 1cp) -- Plural of 'elowahh; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used of the supreme God">of our God</a> <a href="/hebrew/2896.htm" title="2896: lə·ṭō·w·ḇāh (Prep-l:: N-fs) -- Pleasant, agreeable, good.">is gracious</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: kāl- (N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">all</a> <a href="/hebrew/1245.htm" title="1245: mə·ḇaq·šāw (V-Piel-Prtcpl-mpc:: 3ms) -- To seek. A primitive root; to search out; by implication, to strive after.">who seek Him,</a> <a href="/hebrew/5797.htm" title="5797: wə·‘uz·zōw (Conj-w:: N-msc:: 3ms) -- Strength, might. Or rowz; from azaz; strength in various applications.">but His great</a> <a href="/hebrew/639.htm" title="639: wə·’ap·pōw (Conj-w:: N-msc:: 3ms) -- A nostril, nose, face, anger. From 'anaph; properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also ire.">anger</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">is against</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: kāl- (N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">all</a> <a href="/hebrew/5800.htm" title="5800: ‘ō·zə·ḇāw (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mpc:: 3ms) -- To loosen, relinquish, permit. A primitive root; to loosen, i.e. Relinquish, permit, etc.">who forsake Him.”</a> 23So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and He granted our request.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/proverbs/3-5.htm">Proverbs 3:5-6</a> Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; / in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. <a href="/psalms/34-7.htm">Psalm 34:7</a> The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. <a href="/psalms/37-5.htm">Psalm 37:5</a> Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it. <a href="/isaiah/41-10.htm">Isaiah 41:10</a> Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. <a href="/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8</a> And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house I will occupy.” And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests. <a href="/psalms/121-7.htm">Psalm 121:7-8</a> The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul. / The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore. <a href="/2_chronicles/16-9.htm">2 Chronicles 16:9</a> For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him. You have acted foolishly in this matter. From now on, therefore, you will be at war.” <a href="/psalms/91-11.htm">Psalm 91:11</a> For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. <a href="/psalms/146-5.htm">Psalm 146:5</a> Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God, <a href="/isaiah/43-2.htm">Isaiah 43:2</a> When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze. <a href="/1_peter/5-7.htm">1 Peter 5:7</a> Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6-7</a> Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. / And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. <a href="/matthew/6-33.htm">Matthew 6:33</a> But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. <a href="/romans/8-28.htm">Romans 8:28</a> And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. <a href="/hebrews/13-5.htm">Hebrews 13:5-6</a> Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” / So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken to the king, saying, The hand of our God is on all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him.I was ashamed<a href="/1_corinthians/9-15.htm">1 Corinthians 9:15</a> But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.<a href="/2_corinthians/7-14.htm">2 Corinthians 7:14</a> For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.The hand<a href="/ezra/7-6.htm">Ezra 7:6,9,28</a> This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he was a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him… <a href="/1_chronicles/28-9.htm">1 Chronicles 28:9</a> And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.<a href="/2_chronicles/16-9.htm">2 Chronicles 16:9</a> For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.his power and his wrath<a href="/joshua/23-16.htm">Joshua 23:16</a> When ye have transgressed the covenant of the LORD your God, which he commanded you, and have gone and served other gods, and bowed yourselves to them; then shall the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and ye shall perish quickly from off the good land which he hath given unto you.<a href="/2_chronicles/15-2.htm">2 Chronicles 15:2</a> And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.<a href="/psalms/21-8.htm">Psalm 21:8,9</a> Thine hand shall find out all thine enemies: thy right hand shall find out those that hate thee… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_chronicles/30-15.htm">Ashamed</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/25-9.htm">Band</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/26-13.htm">Enemy</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/29-6.htm">Forsake</a> <a href="/ezra/8-18.htm">Good</a> <a href="/ezra/8-18.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/ezra/7-9.htm">Help</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/16-8.htm">Horsemen</a> <a href="/ezra/4-23.htm">Power</a> <a href="/ezra/7-21.htm">Require</a> <a href="/ezra/8-21.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/28-14.htm">Soldiers</a> <a href="/ezra/8-21.htm">Way</a> <a href="/ezra/7-23.htm">Wrath</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/ezra/9-6.htm">Ashamed</a> <a href="/nehemiah/1-3.htm">Band</a> <a href="/ezra/8-31.htm">Enemy</a> <a href="/nehemiah/9-17.htm">Forsake</a> <a href="/ezra/8-27.htm">Good</a> <a href="/ezra/8-26.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/ezra/8-36.htm">Help</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-9.htm">Horsemen</a> <a href="/nehemiah/1-10.htm">Power</a> <a href="/nehemiah/5-12.htm">Require</a> <a href="/ezra/8-23.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/isaiah/15-4.htm">Soldiers</a> <a href="/ezra/8-31.htm">Way</a> <a href="/ezra/10-14.htm">Wrath</a><div class="vheading2">Ezra 8</div>1. <a href="/ezra/8-1.htm">The companions of Ezra, who returned from Babylon</a> 15. <a href="/ezra/8-15.htm">He sends to Iddo for ministers for the temple</a> 21. <a href="/ezra/8-21.htm">He keeps a fast</a> 24. <a href="/ezra/8-24.htm">He commits the treasures to the custody of the priests</a> 31. <a href="/ezra/8-31.htm">From Ahava they come to Jerusalem</a> 33. <a href="/ezra/8-33.htm">The treasure is weighed in the temple</a> 36. <a href="/ezra/8-36.htm">The commission is delivered</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ezra/8.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ezra/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/ezra/8.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For I was ashamed to ask the king for an escort of soldiers and horsemen to protect us from our enemies on the road Ezra expresses a sense of shame in requesting military protection from the Persian king, Artaxerxes. This reflects a deep reliance on God rather than human strength, aligning with the biblical theme of faith over fear. The journey from Babylon to Jerusalem was fraught with danger, including bandits and hostile territories. Ezra's decision not to ask for an escort demonstrates his trust in God's providence, echoing the faith of other biblical figures like Nehemiah, who also faced opposition but relied on divine protection. This reliance on God over earthly powers is a recurring theme in Scripture, seen in passages like <a href="/psalms/20-7.htm">Psalm 20:7</a>, which contrasts trust in chariots and horses with trust in the name of the Lord.since we had told him, “The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek Him Ezra had previously testified to the king about God's gracious hand, which is a metaphor for divine favor and protection. This phrase underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where seeking God leads to experiencing His grace. The concept of seeking God is prevalent throughout the Bible, as seen in passages like <a href="/jeremiah/29-13.htm">Jeremiah 29:13</a>, which promises that those who seek God with all their heart will find Him. This assurance of God's grace is foundational to the faith journey, encouraging believers to pursue a relationship with God, confident in His benevolence and support.but His great anger is against all who forsake Him.” This phrase highlights the dual nature of God's character—His grace towards those who seek Him and His anger towards those who abandon Him. The concept of divine anger is consistent with the covenantal framework of blessings and curses found in <a href="/deuteronomy/28.htm">Deuteronomy 28</a>. Forsaking God leads to consequences, as seen in the history of Israel's exile due to their disobedience. This serves as a warning and a call to faithfulness, reminding believers of the importance of remaining steadfast in their relationship with God. The balance of grace and judgment is also reflected in the New Testament, where Jesus speaks of the blessings for the faithful and the consequences for those who reject Him (<a href="/matthew/25-31.htm">Matthew 25:31-46</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/e/ezra.htm">Ezra</a> A scribe and priest who led a group of exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. He was committed to teaching the laws of God and restoring the spiritual life of the Jewish people. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_king.htm">The King</a> Refers to King Artaxerxes of Persia, who allowed Ezra and the exiles to return to Jerusalem and provided them with resources for the journey and the rebuilding of the temple. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_journey.htm">The Journey</a> The exiles' journey from Babylon to Jerusalem, which was fraught with potential dangers from enemies and bandits along the way. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_hand_of_god.htm">The Hand of God</a> A phrase indicating God's providence, protection, and favor upon those who seek Him. 5. <a href="/topical/e/enemies_on_the_road.htm">Enemies on the Road</a> Represents the physical and spiritual threats faced by the exiles during their journey back to Jerusalem.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/f/faith_over_fear.htm">Faith Over Fear</a> Ezra's decision not to ask for military protection demonstrates a profound trust in God's providence. Believers are encouraged to place their faith in God's ability to protect and provide, even when circumstances seem daunting. <a href="/topical/i/integrity_in_witness.htm">Integrity in Witness</a> Ezra had already testified to the king about God's power and protection. His actions needed to align with his words, teaching us the importance of living out our faith consistently. <a href="/topical/g/god's_hand_in_our_lives.htm">God's Hand in Our Lives</a> The phrase "the hand of our God" signifies His active involvement in the lives of those who seek Him. Believers are reminded to seek God's guidance and trust in His plans. <a href="/topical/c/consequences_of_forsaking_god.htm">Consequences of Forsaking God</a> The verse warns of God's power and anger against those who forsake Him, highlighting the importance of remaining faithful and obedient to God. <a href="/topical/p/prayer_and_preparation.htm">Prayer and Preparation</a> While Ezra did not ask for military protection, he did prepare spiritually by fasting and praying. This teaches the importance of spiritual preparation in facing life's challenges.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ezra_8.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ezra 8</a> <a href="/q/is_artaxerxes'_decree_in_ezra_8_reliable.htm">How reliable is the depiction of Artaxerxes' decree in Ezra 8 when extant Persian documents make no mention of this event?</a> <a href="/q/evidence_of_safe_passage_without_guards.htm">Ezra 8:21-23 portrays a successful journey relying solely on divine protection; is there historical or archaeological evidence of such a safe passage without royal guards?</a> <a href="/q/why_is_darius_called_'king_of_assyria'.htm">Why is Darius called 'king of Assyria' in Ezra 6:22 when he was actually ruler of the Persian Empire?</a> <a href="/q/literal_vs._metaphorical_in_2_samuel_22.htm">(2 Samuel 22) How can we tell which elements of this praise song are meant literally versus those intended as metaphorical or hyperbolic language?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ezra/8.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(22) Because we had spoken unto the king.--The whole verse goes back to the past. Ezra had magnified God's providence before the king: His "hand" upon his own "for good"--the habitual tribute to Providence in this book and Nehemiah--and His power "against" His enemies "for evil" not being expressed. This sublime testimony made the "seeking" God a condition of safety. Hence the solemn fasting and prayer, following many precedents (<a href="/judges/20-26.htm" title="Then all the children of Israel, and all the people, went up, and came to the house of God, and wept, and sat there before the LORD, and fasted that day until even, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the LORD.">Judges 20:26</a>; <a href="/1_samuel/7-6.htm" title="And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the LORD, and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the LORD. And Samuel judged the children of Israel in Mizpeh.">1Samuel 7:6</a>).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ezra/8.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 22. - I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers. Before he apprehended danger Ezra had boasted to Artaxerxes of the power and goodness of God, and had spoken of himself and his brethren as assured of the Divine protection. Now that peril threatened he found himself afraid, and would have been glad of such an escort as Nehemiah obtained at a later date (<a href="/nehemiah/2-9.htm">Nehemiah 2:9</a>). But after his boasts he was ashamed to confess his fear. Who the enemy in the way was it is impossible to decide; but we may gather from ver. 31 that it was no imaginary foe. Probably some of the Arab tribes, who owed no allegiance to Persia, had formed a design to intercept the caravan and plunder it. <a href="/commentaries/ezra/8-22.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>For כִּ֣י (kî) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction I was ashamed בֹ֗שְׁתִּי (ḇō·šə·tî) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_954.htm">Strong's 954: </a> To pale, to be ashamed, to be disappointed, delayed to ask the king הַמֶּ֙לֶךְ֙ (ham·me·leḵ) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4428.htm">Strong's 4428: </a> A king for לִשְׁא֤וֹל (liš·’ō·wl) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7592.htm">Strong's 7592: </a> To inquire, to request, to demand an [escort of] soldiers חַ֣יִל (ḥa·yil) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2428.htm">Strong's 2428: </a> A force, an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength and horsemen וּפָרָשִׁ֔ים (ū·p̄ā·rā·šîm) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6571.htm">Strong's 6571: </a> A steed, a driver, cavalry to protect לְעָזְרֵ֥נוּ (lə·‘ā·zə·rê·nū) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct | first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5826.htm">Strong's 5826: </a> To surround, protect, aid us from מִן־ (min-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4480.htm">Strong's 4480: </a> A part of, from, out of our enemies מֵאוֹיֵ֖ב (mê·’ō·w·yêḇ) Preposition-m | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_341.htm">Strong's 341: </a> Hating, an adversary on the road, בַּדָּ֑רֶךְ (bad·dā·reḵ) Preposition-b, Article | Noun - common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1870.htm">Strong's 1870: </a> A road, a course of life, mode of action since כִּֽי־ (kî-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction we had told him, אָמַ֨רְנוּ (’ā·mar·nū) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say “The hand יַד־ (yaḏ-) Noun - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3027.htm">Strong's 3027: </a> A hand of our God אֱלֹהֵ֤ינוּ (’ĕ·lō·hê·nū) Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative is gracious לְטוֹבָ֔ה (lə·ṭō·w·ḇāh) Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2896.htm">Strong's 2896: </a> Pleasant, agreeable, good to עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against all כָּל־ (kāl-) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> The whole, all, any, every who seek Him, מְבַקְשָׁיו֙ (mə·ḇaq·šāw) Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1245.htm">Strong's 1245: </a> To search out, to strive after but His great וְעֻזּ֣וֹ (wə·‘uz·zōw) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5797.htm">Strong's 5797: </a> Strength, might anger וְאַפּ֔וֹ (wə·’ap·pōw) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_639.htm">Strong's 639: </a> The nose, nostril, the face, a person, ire is against עַ֖ל (‘al) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against all כָּל־ (kāl-) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> The whole, all, any, every who forsake Him.? עֹזְבָֽיו׃ (‘ō·zə·ḇāw) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5800.htm">Strong's 5800: </a> To loosen, relinquish, permit <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/ezra/8-22.htm">Ezra 8:22 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/ezra/8-22.htm">OT History: Ezra 8:22 For I was ashamed to ask (Ezr. Ez) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ezra/8-21.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ezra 8:21"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ezra 8:21" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ezra/8-23.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ezra 8:23"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ezra 8:23" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>