The list of signers in 10:1–27 is similar to the lists of Ezra 2 and Nehemiah 7. There apparently were some others not in this list. The mention of those who “separated themselves from the neighboring peoples” (10:28) may indicate that some Jews who returned from the surrounding areas are included. The covenant includes not only the heads of families but also their wives and children “who are able to understand” (10:28).

The duties specified in 10:30–39 are based on the Pentateuch, but those laws are applied to this new situation. This illustrates early Jewish …