Ezra 10:1–44 continues the narrative from Ezra 9:1–15 by telling us what happened in the days and months after Ezra's prayer. From the crowd that has gathered to listen to Ezra, a man called Shecaniah makes a proposal regarding what must now be done by the people (Ezra 10:1–5). All those present take an oath just as he suggested (Ezra 10:5–6), and a proclamation is made in the areas around Jerusalem to call the rest of the people to a special gathering (Ezra 10:7–8). Once everyone is present (Ezra 10:9), Ezra speaks to the people (Ezra 10:10–11). In response, all agree to do as Ezra instructed them (Ezra 10:12) and they make practical plans to implement his instructions (Ezra 10:13–14). Though there are some folk who disagree (Ezra 10:15), the plan is adhered to (Ezra 10:16–17) and all those who married pagan women are called to repentance (Ezra 10:18–44).
1 While Ezra prayed and made confession, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, a very great assembly of men, women, and children, gathered to him out of Israel, for the people wept bitterly.