10 We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that were the chief of them.
10 We also asked them their names, so that we could write down the names of their leaders for your information.
10 We also asked them their names, for your information, that we might write down the names of their leaders.
10 We also asked for their names so we could pass them on to you and have a record of the men at the head of the construction work.
10 We also asked them their names to inform you, that we might write the names of the men who were chief among them.
10 And we demanded their names so that we could tell you who the leaders were.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ezra 5:10
Commentary on Ezra 5:3-17
(Read Ezra 5:3-17)
While employed in God's work, we are under his special protection; his eye is upon us for good. This should keep us to our duty, and encourage us therein, when difficulties are ever so discouraging. The elders of the Jews gave the Samaritans an account of their proceedings. Let us learn hence, with meekness and fear, to give a reason of the hope that is in us; let us rightly understand, and then readily declare, what we do in God's service, and why we do it. And while in this world, we always shall have to confess, that our sins have provoked the wrath of God. All our sufferings spring from thence, and all our comforts from his unmerited mercy. However the work may seem to be hindered, yet the Lord Jesus Christ is carrying it on, his people are growing unto a holy temple in the Lord, for a habitation of God through the Spirit.