The Pulpit Commentary on Ezra 9:6

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

I am ashamed and blush. Jeremiah had complained that in his day those who "committed abominations were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush" (Jeremiah 6:15; Jeremiah 8:12). Ezra, with these words in his thoughts possibly, begins his confession with a protestation that he at any rate is not open to this reproach—he blushes and burns with shame for the sins of his people.

Our iniquities are increased over our head. i.e. have kept on rising like a flood; "gone over our head" (Psalms 38:4), and overwhelmed us. And our trespass is grown up unto the heavens. Has grown to such a height that it has attracted the notice of God, and made him angry with us.

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