3 When I heard this report, I tore my tunic and robe, pulled out some of the hair from my head and beard, and sat down devastated.e

EZRA’S CONFESSION

4 Everyone who trembled at the words of the God of Israelf gathered around me, because of the unfaithfulness of the exiles,g while I sat devastated until the evening offering.h 5 At the evening offering, I got up from my time of humiliation, with my tunic and robe torn. Then I fell on my knees and spread out my hands to the Lord my God.i 6 And I said:j

My God, I am ashamed and embarrassed to lift my face toward you, my God, because our iniquities are higher than our heads and our guilt is as high as the heavens.k