Ezra 9:5

Ezr 9:5 And at the evening sacrifice I arose up from my heaviness; and having rent my garment and my mantle, I fell upon my knees, and spread out my hands unto the LORD my God,

Ver. 5. I arose up from my heaviness ] In affliction, sc. of spirit, wherewith his heart was leavened and soured, as David’s was, Psalms 73:21 ; embittered, as Peter’s, Matthew 26:75 ; poured out upon him, as Job’s, Job 30:16 . He did really afflict himself with voluntary sorrows for the transgressions of his people.

And having rent, &c. ] See Ezra 9:3 .

I fell upon my knees ] This gesture did both evidence and increase the ardency of his affection.

And spread out my hands ] With the palms open toward heaven, in a having, craving way, as beggars. This was the Jewish manner of praying, and it was very becoming.