God's Blessing

Ezra 5 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

1 Now the prophets, Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah and Jerusalem, in the name of the God of Israel who was over them.
2 Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel and Jeshua the son of Jozadak arose and began to rebuild the house of God that is in Jerusalem, and the prophets of God were with them, supporting them.
3 At the same time Tattenai the governor of the province Beyond the River and Shethar-bozenai and their associates came to them and spoke to them thus: “Who gave you a decree to build this house and to finish this structure?”
4 Then we said to them, “What are the names of the men who are building this building?”
5 But the eye of their God was on the elders of the Jews, and they did not stop them until the report should reach Darius and then an answer be returned by letter concerning it.
6 This is a copy of the letter that Tattenai the governor of the province Beyond the River and Shethar-bozenai and his associates, the governors who were in the province Beyond the River, sent to Darius the king.
7 They also asked them, “What are the names of the men who are building this building?”
8 Be it known to the king that we went to the province of Judah, to the house of the great God. It is being built with huge stones, and timber is laid in the walls. This work goes on diligently and prospers in their hands.
9 Then we asked those elders and spoke to them thus: ‘Who gave you a decree to build this house and to finish this structure?’
10 We also asked them their names, for your information, that we might write down the names of their leaders.
11 And this was their reply to us: ‘We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the temple that was built many years ago, which a great king of Israel built and finished.
12 But because our fathers had angered the God of heaven, he gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this house and carried away the people to Babylonia.
13 However, in the first year of Cyrus king of Babylon, Cyrus the king made a decree that this house of God should be rebuilt.
14 And the vessels that have been given you for the service of the house of your God, you shall deliver before the God of Jerusalem.
15 They delivered it into the hands of the workmen, the officials, and the elders of the Jews, who built for us the house of our God as we rebuilt the house that was destroyed many years ago.
16 Then this Sheshbazzar came and laid the foundations of the house of God that is in Jerusalem, and from that time until now it has been in building, and it is not yet finished.
17 Therefore, if it seems good to the king, let search be made in the royal archives there in Babylon, to see whether a decree was issued by Cyrus the king for the rebuilding of this house of God in Jerusalem. And let the king send us his pleasure in this matter.”

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The True Meaning of Ezra 5

The book of Ezra was written by the prophet Ezra, a scribe and priest who played a crucial role in the restoration of the Jewish people after their exile in Babylon. We witness the continuation of the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem in this chapter, a project that had faced significant opposition and challenges.

The events described in Ezra 5 take place during the reign of Darius, the Persian king who had granted the Jews permission to rebuild their temple. However, the local governors in the region were not pleased with this development and sought to hinder the progress of the construction. This chapter highlights the determination of the Jewish leaders, Zerubbabel and Jeshua, to persevere in the face of adversity, and the intervention of the Persian authorities to ensure the completion of the temple. Haggai and Zechariah, the prophets, played a vital role in encouraging the people to continue their work, reminding them of God’s promises and the importance of this sacred undertaking as we delve into this passage. The chapter also provides insights into the political dynamics between the Jewish community and the surrounding nations, as well as the importance of seeking divine guidance and support during times of challenge and uncertainty.

Ezra 5:1-2

The Bible states in Ezra 5:1-2 that the prophets Haggai and Zechariah prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel who was over them. Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel and Jeshua the son of Jozadak arose and began to rebuild the house of God that is in Jerusalem, and the prophets of God were with them, supporting them.”

This verse is significant in several ways. Firstly, it introduces the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, who played a crucial role in encouraging the Jews to resume the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Haggai’s prophetic message urged the people to prioritize the reconstruction of the temple, emphasizing the importance of honoring God and His house (Haggai 1:4). Zechariah also shared visions and messages from God that provided hope and encouragement to the returning exiles (Zechariah 1:3).

Secondly, the mention of Zerubbabel and Jeshua is noteworthy as they were key figures in leading the Jewish community in the restoration of the temple. Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, was appointed as the governor of Judah by King Cyrus of Persia (Ezra 2:2). Jeshua, the high priest, played a central role in the religious leadership of the people as they sought to reestablish their worship practices in Jerusalem.

The collaboration between the prophets and the leaders in rebuilding the temple underscores the importance of spiritual guidance and earthly leadership working hand in hand for the restoration of God’s house and the community. This passage highlights the synergy between the prophetic word and human action in fulfilling God’s purposes. It also emphasizes the need for believers to be attentive to the messages of the prophets and to act upon them in faith and obedience.

The events described in Ezra 5:1-2 remind us of the interconnectedness of God’s divine plan with human agency. The prophets’ exhortations and the leaders’ actions demonstrate the partnership between God’s messengers and His chosen instruments on earth. This harmonious collaboration serves as a timeless lesson for believers today, stressing the importance of heeding God’s word through His appointed messengers and actively participating in His redemptive work in the world.

Ezra 5:3-5

  1. Section Breakdown:
  2. Ezra 5:3 – “At that time Tattenai, the governor of Trans-Euphrates, and Shethar-Bozenai and their associates went to them and asked, ‘Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and to finish it?’”
  3. Ezra 5:4 – “They also asked, ‘What are the names of those who are constructing this building?’”

  4. Ezra 5:5 – “But the eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received.”

  5. Tattenai, the governor of the region beyond the Euphrates River, along with Shethar-Bozenai and others, confront the Jewish elders who were working on the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem in these verses, marking a pivotal moment. Their questions are pointed towards the authorization and individuals involved in the construction process. This interaction signifies the opposition and challenges faced by the Jewish people in their efforts to rebuild the temple.

  6. Tattenai and his associates represent the local authorities and officials who are questioning the legitimacy of the temple’s reconstruction. This reflects a recurrent theme in the Bible where God’s people face opposition when they are trying to fulfill His commands or rebuild what has been destroyed. Throughout the Bible, we see instances where God’s people face challenges from outside forces when they are working towards God’s purposes.
  7. The statement in verse 5, “But the eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews,” is crucial as it underscores the divine protection and providence that the Jewish elders received during this difficult time. It shows that even in the face of opposition and questioning from earthly authorities, God was watching over His people and ensuring that His plans would come to fruition. This highlights the concept of divine intervention and protection which is a recurring motif in the Bible.
  8. This situation also brings to mind verses like Psalm 121:4 which says, “Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep,” reinforcing the idea that God is always vigilant and protective of His people. The episode also reminds us of the reassurance given in Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  9. The unfolding events in Ezra 5 serve as a reminder to believers that even in the face of challenges, opposition, and questioning of our faith or actions, God is always watching over us and working things out according to His divine plan. It encourages believers to trust in God’s providence and sovereignty, knowing that His protection and guidance are ever-present, no matter the circumstances we may face.

Ezra 5:6-10

The verses in Ezra 5:6-10 can be broken down into three main sections: the leaders of the Jews writing a letter to King Darius, King Darius responding, and the leaders of the Jews taking subsequent action.

The first section describes a letter that was sent to King Darius from Tattenai, the governor of the province Beyond the River, and Shethar-bozenai and their associates, questioning the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem by the Jews. They inquire about who authorized the rebuilding and request to know the names of the people leading this project. This letter was an attempt to halt the construction of the temple by questioning its legitimacy and authority. King Darius responds to the letter he received in the next part of the passage. He orders a search to be made in the archives to ascertain the facts regarding the Jews’ claim of rebuilding the temple. King Darius was known for his fairness and wisdom, and instead of immediately issuing a decree based on the accusations, he sought to investigate the matter thoroughly before making a decision. This demonstrates his commitment to justice and due process.

Finally, in the last section, we see the action taken as a result of King Darius’ investigation. It is revealed that King Cyrus had indeed issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Not only does King Darius confirm this decree, but he also commands Tattenai and his associates to support the Jews in their endeavors. This turn of events is significant as it not only legitimizes the Jews’ actions but also shows how God’s will can prevail even in the face of opposition.

The timeless message in this passage is one of trust in God’s providence and faithfulness. Despite the challenges and opposition faced by the Jews in their efforts to rebuild the temple, God’s hand was evident in ensuring that the work would continue. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking justice and truth, as demonstrated by King Darius in thoroughly investigating the matter before making a decision.

This passage also echoes the theme of God’s faithfulness to His promises throughout the Bible. The decree issued by King Cyrus aligns with the prophecy of Jeremiah that the Jewish exiles would return to Jerusalem after seventy years. This fulfillment of prophecy emphasizes the sovereignty of God and His faithfulness in keeping His word. Ezra 5:6-10 highlights the themes of justice, faithfulness, and the providence of God. It serves as a testament to how, even in the face of opposition, God’s plans will ultimately prevail, and those who seek truth and justice will be upheld.

Ezra 5:11-17

King Darius presented a decree to the Jewish leaders concerning the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem in Ezra 5:11-17. The sections of this verse can be broken down as follows:

  1. “This is the answer they gave us: ‘We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the temple that was built many years ago, one that a great king of Israel built and finished.’” – The Jewish leaders, responding to the inquiry of the king, boldly proclaim their identity as servants of the God of heaven and earth. This declaration not only underscores their unwavering faith and commitment to God but also emphasizes the significance of the temple as a place of worship and connection to their divine source. They are anchoring their current actions in the rich heritage and traditions of their ancestors by referencing the history of its construction by a great king of Israel, highlighting the continuity and importance of their spiritual legacy.

  2. “But because our ancestors angered the God of heaven, he gave them into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar the Chaldean, king of Babylon, who destroyed this temple and deported the people to Babylon.” – Here, the Jewish leaders acknowledge the consequences of their ancestors’ disobedience to God, leading to the destruction of the temple and their exile to Babylon. This recognition of past mistakes serves as a powerful lesson on the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s commandments. It highlights the cyclical nature of sin, punishment, repentance, and restoration that is woven throughout the biblical narrative and reinforces the idea that God’s faithfulness endures despite human failings.

  3. “However, in the first year of Cyrus king of Babylon, King Cyrus issued a decree to rebuild this house of God.” – The reference to King Cyrus’s decree to rebuild the house of God marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Jewish people. Cyrus, as foretold by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 44:28), was used by God to facilitate the return of the exiles to Jerusalem and the reconstruction of the temple. This act of divine intervention through a pagan ruler illustrates God’s sovereignty over all nations and His ability to accomplish His purposes through unexpected means. It also emphasizes the theme of restoration and renewal, demonstrating God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.

  4. King Cyrus also took the gold and silver articles of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar had removed from the temple in Jerusalem and brought to the temple in Babylon. Then King Cyrus gave them to a man named Sheshbazzar, whom he had appointed governor.”** – The mention of the return of the sacred articles from the temple in Babylon to Jerusalem under the supervision of Sheshbazzar, appointed by King Cyrus, signifies the beginning of the restoration of the temple worship and the reinstatement of Jewish religious practices. This act of repatriation symbolizes the reclaiming of their identity as God’s chosen people and the reestablishment of their spiritual center. It underscores the concept of God’s providential care and His ability to reverse the effects of past transgressions, offering hope and redemption to those who turn back to Him in repentance. Ezra 5:11-17 encapsulates themes of faithfulness, restoration, repentance, and divine intervention within the historical context of the Jewish people’s return from exile and the rebuilding of the temple. It serves as a reminder of God’s enduring faithfulness to His covenant promises and His willingness to forgive and restore those who humble themselves before Him. Through the actions of King Cyrus and the Jewish leaders, we see God’s sovereignty at work, orchestrating events for the fulfillment of His purposes and the advancement of His kingdom.

After Ezra 5

The people of Judah and Benjamin continued their work on rebuilding the temple, despite the opposition they faced. Tattenai, the governor of the region, questioned their authority to do so. But the elders of the Jews stood firm, reminding him of the decree issued by King Cyrus years earlier. Tattenai sent a report to King Darius, seeking a decision on this matter. The people of Judah and Benjamin pressed on with their task, facing both challenges and encouragement. The Lord was with them, and their faith sustained them through the difficulties. Yet, the ultimate outcome remained uncertain, as they awaited the king’s response. The next chapter will reveal how the Lord would guide them through this pivotal moment, strengthening their resolve and vindicating their cause.