May 9, 2025
Do You Really Want to Be Like Ezra?
Ezra 4-7
Casey Crane
Big Book Idea
As the Jewish exiles start to return home, Ezra sets his heart on studying, practicing, and teaching the Law.
Key Verse | Ezra 7:10
For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.
Ezra 4-7
Chapter 4
Adversaries Oppose the Rebuilding
1 Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the returned exiles were building a temple to the LORD, the God of Israel, 2 they approached Zerubbabel and the heads of fathers' houses and said to them, “Let us build with you, for we worship your God as you do, and we have been sacrificing to him ever since the days of Esarhaddon king of Assyria who brought us here.” 3 But Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the rest of the heads of fathers' houses in Israel said to them, “You have nothing to do with us in building a house to our God; but we alone will build to the LORD, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus the king of Persia has commanded us.”
4 Then the people of the land discouraged the people of Judah and made them afraid to build 5 and bribed counselors against them to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia.
6 And in the reign of Ahasuerus, in the beginning of his reign, they wrote an accusation against the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem.
The Letter to King Artaxerxes
7 In the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam and Mithredath and Tabeel and the rest of their associates wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia. The letter was written in Aramaic and translated. 1 4:7 Hebrew written in Aramaic and translated in Aramaic, indicating that 4:86:18 is in Aramaic; another interpretation is The letter was written in the Aramaic script and set forth in the Aramaic language 8 Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe wrote a letter against Jerusalem to Artaxerxes the king as follows: 9 Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their associates, the judges, the governors, the officials, the Persians, the men of Erech, the Babylonians, the men of Susa, that is, the Elamites, 10 and the rest of the nations whom the great and noble Osnappar deported and settled in the cities of Samaria and in the rest of the province Beyond the River. 11 (This is a copy of the letter that they sent.) “To Artaxerxes the king: Your servants, the men of the province Beyond the River, send greeting. And now 12 be it known to the king that the Jews who came up from you to us have gone to Jerusalem. They are rebuilding that rebellious and wicked city. They are finishing the walls and repairing the foundations. 13 Now be it known to the king that if this city is rebuilt and the walls finished, they will not pay tribute, custom, or toll, and the royal revenue will be impaired. 14 Now because we eat the salt of the palace 2 4:14 Aramaic because the salt of the palace is our salt and it is not fitting for us to witness the king's dishonor, therefore we send and inform the king, 15 in order that search may be made in the book of the records of your fathers. You will find in the book of the records and learn that this city is a rebellious city, hurtful to kings and provinces, and that sedition was stirred up in it from of old. That was why this city was laid waste. 16 We make known to the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls finished, you will then have no possession in the province Beyond the River.”
The King Orders the Work to Cease
17 The king sent an answer: “To Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe and the rest of their associates who live in Samaria and in the rest of the province Beyond the River, greeting. And now 18 the letter that you sent to us has been plainly read before me. 19 And I made a decree, and search has been made, and it has been found that this city from of old has risen against kings, and that rebellion and sedition have been made in it. 20 And mighty kings have been over Jerusalem, who ruled over the whole province Beyond the River, to whom tribute, custom, and toll were paid. 21 Therefore make a decree that these men be made to cease, and that this city be not rebuilt, until a decree is made by me. 22 And take care not to be slack in this matter. Why should damage grow to the hurt of the king?”
23 Then, when the copy of King Artaxerxes' letter was read before Rehum and Shimshai the scribe and their associates, they went in haste to the Jews at Jerusalem and by force and power made them cease. 24 Then the work on the house of God that is in Jerusalem stopped, and it ceased until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia.
Chapter 5
Rebuilding Begins Anew
1 Now the prophets, Haggai 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 They also asked them this: 3 5:4 Septuagint, Syriac; Aramaic 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.
Tattenai's Letter to King Darius
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 sent him a report, in which was written as follows: “To Darius the king, all peace. 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. 4 5:10 Aramaic of the men at their heads 11 And this was their reply to us: ‘We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the house 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 gold and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple that was in Jerusalem and brought into the temple of Babylon, these Cyrus the king took out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered to one whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor; 15 and he said to him, “Take these vessels, go and put them in the temple that is in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be rebuilt on its site.” 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.”
Chapter 6
The Decree of Darius
1 Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in Babylonia, in the house of the archives where the documents were stored. 2 And in Ecbatana, the citadel that is in the province of Media, a scroll was found on which this was written: “A record. 3 In the first year of Cyrus the king, Cyrus the king issued a decree: Concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, let the house be rebuilt, the place where sacrifices were offered, and let its foundations be retained. Its height shall be sixty cubits 5 6:3 A cubit was about 18 inches or 45 centimeters and its breadth sixty cubits, 4 with three layers of great stones and one layer of timber. Let the cost be paid from the royal treasury. 5 And also let the gold and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that is in Jerusalem and brought to Babylon, be restored and brought back to the temple that is in Jerusalem, each to its place. You shall put them in the house of God.”
6 “Now therefore, Tattenai, governor of the province Beyond the River, Shethar-bozenai, and your 6 6:6 Aramaic their associates the governors who are in the province Beyond the River, keep away. 7 Let the work on this house of God alone. Let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews rebuild this house of God on its site. 8 Moreover, I make a decree regarding what you shall do for these elders of the Jews for the rebuilding of this house of God. The cost is to be paid to these men in full and without delay from the royal revenue, the tribute of the province from Beyond the River. 9 And whatever is needed—bulls, rams, or sheep for burnt offerings to the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, or oil, as the priests at Jerusalem require—let that be given to them day by day without fail, 10 that they may offer pleasing sacrifices to the God of heaven and pray for the life of the king and his sons. 11 Also I make a decree that if anyone alters this edict, a beam shall be pulled out of his house, and he shall be impaled on it, and his house shall be made a dunghill. 12 May the God who has caused his name to dwell there overthrow any king or people who shall put out a hand to alter this, or to destroy this house of God that is in Jerusalem. I Darius make a decree; let it be done with all diligence.”
The Temple Finished and Dedicated
13 Then, according to the word sent by Darius the king, Tattenai, the governor of the province Beyond the River, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates did with all diligence what Darius the king had ordered. 14 And the elders of the Jews built and prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. They finished their building by decree of the God of Israel and by decree of Cyrus and Darius and Artaxerxes king of Persia; 15 and this house was finished on the third day of the month of Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king.
16 And the people of Israel, the priests and the Levites, and the rest of the returned exiles, celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy. 17 They offered at the dedication of this house of God 100 bulls, 200 rams, 400 lambs, and as a sin offering for all Israel 12 male goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. 18 And they set the priests in their divisions and the Levites in their divisions, for the service of God at Jerusalem, as it is written in the Book of Moses.
Passover Celebrated
19 On the fourteenth day of the first month, the returned exiles kept the Passover. 20 For the priests and the Levites had purified themselves together; all of them were clean. So they slaughtered the Passover lamb for all the returned exiles, for their fellow priests, and for themselves. 21 It was eaten by the people of Israel who had returned from exile, and also by every one who had joined them and separated himself from the uncleanness of the peoples of the land to worship the LORD, the God of Israel. 22 And they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with joy, for the LORD had made them joyful and had turned the heart of the king of Assyria to them, so that he aided them in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.
Chapter 7
Ezra Sent to Teach the People
1 Now after this, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, son of Azariah, son of Hilkiah, 2 son of Shallum, son of Zadok, son of Ahitub, 3 son of Amariah, son of Azariah, son of Meraioth, 4 son of Zerahiah, son of Uzzi, son of Bukki, 5 son of Abishua, son of Phinehas, son of Eleazar, son of Aaron the chief priest— 6 this Ezra went up from Babylonia. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses that the LORD, the God of Israel, had given, and the king granted him all that he asked, for the hand of the LORD his God was on him.
7 And there went up also to Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king, some of the people of Israel, and some of the priests and Levites, the singers and gatekeepers, and the temple servants. 8 And Ezra 7 7:8 Aramaic he came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year of the king. 9 For on the first day of the first month he began to go up from Babylonia, and on the first day of the fifth month he came to Jerusalem, for the good hand of his God was on him. 10 For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.
11 This is a copy of the letter that King Artaxerxes gave to Ezra the priest, the scribe, a man learned in matters of the commandments of the LORD and his statutes for Israel: 12 “Artaxerxes, king of kings, to Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven. Peace. 8 7:12 Aramaic Perfect (probably a greeting) And now 13 I make a decree that anyone of the people of Israel or their priests or Levites in my kingdom, who freely offers to go to Jerusalem, may go with you. 14 For you are sent by the king and his seven counselors to make inquiries about Judah and Jerusalem according to the Law of your God, which is in your hand, 15 and also to carry the silver and gold that the king and his counselors have freely offered to the God of Israel, whose dwelling is in Jerusalem, 16 with all the silver and gold that you shall find in the whole province of Babylonia, and with the freewill offerings of the people and the priests, vowed willingly for the house of their God that is in Jerusalem. 17 With this money, then, you shall with all diligence buy bulls, rams, and lambs, with their grain offerings and their drink offerings, and you shall offer them on the altar of the house of your God that is in Jerusalem. 18 Whatever seems good to you and your brothers to do with the rest of the silver and gold, you may do, according to the will of your God. 19 The vessels that have been given you for the service of the house of your God, you shall deliver before the God of Jerusalem. 20 And whatever else is required for the house of your God, which it falls to you to provide, you may provide it out of the king's treasury.
21 And I, Artaxerxes the king, make a decree to all the treasurers in the province Beyond the River: Whatever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven, requires of you, let it be done with all diligence, 22 up to 100 talents 9 7:22 A talent was about 75 pounds or 34 kilograms of silver, 100 cors 10 7:22 A cor was about 6 bushels or 220 liters of wheat, 100 baths 11 7:22 A bath was about 6 gallons or 22 liters of wine, 100 baths of oil, and salt without prescribing how much. 23 Whatever is decreed by the God of heaven, let it be done in full for the house of the God of heaven, lest his wrath be against the realm of the king and his sons. 24 We also notify you that it shall not be lawful to impose tribute, custom, or toll on anyone of the priests, the Levites, the singers, the doorkeepers, the temple servants, or other servants of this house of God.
25 And you, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God that is in your hand, appoint magistrates and judges who may judge all the people in the province Beyond the River, all such as know the laws of your God. And those who do not know them, you shall teach. 26 Whoever will not obey the law of your God and the law of the king, let judgment be strictly executed on him, whether for death or for banishment or for confiscation of his goods or for imprisonment.”
27 Blessed be the LORD, the God of our fathers, who put such a thing as this into the heart of the king, to beautify the house of the LORD that is in Jerusalem, 28 and who extended to me his steadfast love before the king and his counselors, and before all the king's mighty officers. I took courage, for the hand of the LORD my God was on me, and I gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me.
Footnotes
[1] 4:7 Hebrew written in Aramaic and translated in Aramaic, indicating that 4:8–6:18 is in Aramaic; another interpretation is The letter was written in the Aramaic script and set forth in the Aramaic language[2] 4:14 Aramaic because the salt of the palace is our salt
[3] 5:4 Septuagint, Syriac; Aramaic Then we said to them,
[4] 5:10 Aramaic of the men at their heads
[5] 6:3 A cubit was about 18 inches or 45 centimeters
[6] 6:6 Aramaic their
[7] 7:8 Aramaic he
[8] 7:12 Aramaic Perfect (probably a greeting)
[9] 7:22 A talent was about 75 pounds or 34 kilograms
[10] 7:22 A cor was about 6 bushels or 220 liters
[11] 7:22 A bath was about 6 gallons or 22 liters
Table of Contents
Introduction to Ezra
Timeline
Author and Date
The book of Ezra never declares its author, and the book’s contents make it difficult to determine when it was written. Ezra 1–6 recounts events that occurred long before Ezra’s time. Ezra 7:27–9:15 clearly comes from Ezra’s own hand, since it is written in the first person. Ezra 7:1–26 and 10:1–44 describe events in Ezra’s time, but are written in the third person. It is possible Ezra may have combined the other materials with his autobiographical writings to form the book. Or, a later historian may have collected all the portions to describe Israelite history from c. 538–433 B.C. Many scholars believe that the same author wrote Ezra, Nehemiah, and 1–2 Chronicles. In ancient times, Ezra and Nehemiah were counted as one book. The events narrated in Ezra–Nehemiah occur over a century: Ezra 1–6 covers 538–515 B.C.; Ezra 7–Nehemiah 13 covers 458–433 B.C.
Theme
The theme of Ezra is faithfulness to the Lord, both in keeping the Mosaic law (7:6) and in worship. Because of his concern about worship, Ezra stresses the importance of rebuilding the temple.
Purpose, Occasion, and Background
As the people return from exile in Babylon to the Promised Land, they are under threat from the non-Jews living there. Having been driven from the land previously because of their sin, they also need to learn once again how to live in covenant with God. The land must be restored through the physical presence of God’s people, and the people must revive a spiritual commitment to serve God alone. As the temple is rebuilt and more exiles come back to the land, the people start to reestablish the nation that God had promised Abraham. As the priests return and begin to teach the people how to love God and live according to his ways, the people recommit themselves to the Lord.
The book of Ezra encourages the postexilic community toward pure worship and holy behavior. Ezra calls the people back to covenant loyalty and obedience to the Mosaic law. The book rejoices in God’s provision in returning them to the land, rebuilding the temple, and calling his people back to himself. The book also warns against falling away again through sin and against serving other gods. The remnant of Israel should persevere in hope, repent in humility, and live in obedience.
Key Themes
- The Lord is faithful to his promises, and his mercy is greater than his anger (9:13).
- The Lord works providentially by all means, especially through powerful rulers, to bring about his greater purposes (e.g., 6:22).
- The exiles are the remnant of Israel, the “holy race” (9:2, 8). They are bound by covenant to guard their identity and character as the people of the Lord by obeying his law.
- People belong to the Lord by willingly accepting his covenant. Membership in the covenant community is open to the people of any nation who meet this requirement (6:21).
- Faithfulness to the Lord is demonstrated by proper attention to worship. In Ezra, this is shown especially in the rebuilding of the temple and in the proper ordering of its services. The priests, Levites, gatekeepers, musicians, and other temple servants once again perform their duties (2:36–58; 3:10–11).
- The heart of worship is joy (6:22).
Outline
- Cyrus’s Decree and the Return of Exiles from Babylon (1:1–2:70)
- The Returned Exiles Rebuild the Temple on Its Original Site (3:1–6:22)
- Ezra the Priest Comes to Jerusalem to Establish the Law of Moses (7:1–8:36)
- Ezra Discovers and Confronts the Problem of Intermarriage (9:1–10:44)
The Persian Empire at the Time of Ezra
c. 458 B.C.
During the time of Ezra the Persian Empire had reached its greatest extent, engulfing nearly the entire Near East. In 539 B.C. the Persians under Cyrus the Great defeated the Babylonians and absorbed their territory into the empire, including the lands of Israel and Judah (known as Beyond the River). The next year Cyrus allowed the people of Judah to return home under the leadership of Zerubbabel and rebuild the temple of the Lord. Later, around 458 B.C., another group of Judean exiles returned under Ezra’s leadership.
Fact: How long was the journey from Babylon to Jerusalem?
How long was the journey from Babylon to Jerusalem? It took Ezra and the caravan he was traveling with four months to traverse the nearly 900 miles (1,448 km) from Babylon to Jerusalem. An army could have traveled much faster, but Ezra’s entourage probably included children and elderly people.
Fact: How long did it take to rebuild the temple?
How long did it take to rebuild the temple? The Jews returning from exile faced many obstacles in rebuilding the temple. The non-Jewish people now living in the land resisted their efforts, and the returned exiles often lacked the motivation to work. The temple took 20 years to complete, and it fell far short of the grandeur of Solomon’s temple.
Fact: The prophecy about Cyrus
The prophecy about Cyrus. King Cyrus of Persia would one day make it possible for the Jews to return home from their exile in Babylon (see the book of Ezra). Isaiah predicted this great event, even mentioning Cyrus by name (Isa. 44:28; 45:1), some 150 years before Cyrus’s time.
Fact: Beyond the River
Beyond the River was the name given by Persian rulers to their province that included Judah and Israel (4:11). The “River” refers to the Euphrates River, running through present-day Iraq. From the perspective of people living in Persia, Israel was indeed “beyond the river.”
Fact: The Behistun Inscription
The Behistun Inscription. This 50-by-80-foot (15-by-24 m) inscription was carved into the face of a cliff in western Iran. Using various languages, it provides an autobiography of Darius’s life, lineage, and victories as king of Persia.
The Hebrew Calendar
The Hebrew calendar was composed of 12 lunar months, each of which began when the thin crescent moon was first visible at sunset. They were composed of approximately 29/30 days and were built around the agricultural seasons. Apparently some of the names of the months were changed after the time of Israel’s exile in Babylon (e.g., the first month of Abib changed to Nisan; for dates of the exile, see p. 31). The months of the Hebrew calendar (left column) are compared to the corresponding months of the modern (Gregorian) calendar shown in the center column. Biblical references (in the third column) indicate references to the Hebrew calendar cited in the Bible.
*Periodically, a 13th month was added so that the lunar calendar would account for the entire solar year.
Chronology of Ezra
| Event | Year | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cyrus king of Persia captures Babylon | 539 B.C. | Dan. 5:30–31 |
| First year of King Cyrus; issues proclamation freeing Jewish exiles to return | 538–537 | Ezra 1:1–4 |
| Jewish exiles, led by Sheshbazzar, return from Babylon to Jerusalem | 537? | Ezra 1:11 |
| Altar rebuilt | 537 | Ezra 3:1–2 |
| Temple rebuilding begins | 536 | Ezra 3:8 |
| Adversaries oppose the rebuilding | 536–530 | Ezra 4:1–5 |
| Temple rebuilding ceases | 530–520 | Ezra 4:24 |
| Temple rebuilding resumes (2nd year of Darius) | 520 | Ezra 5:2; compare Hag. 1:14 |
| Temple construction completed (6th year of Darius) | 516 | Ezra 6:15 |
| Ezra departs from Babylon to Jerusalem (arrives in 7th year of Artaxerxes) | 458 | Ezra 7:6–9 |
| Men of Judah and Benjamin assemble at Jerusalem | 458 | Ezra 10:9 |
| Officials conduct three-month investigation | 458–457 | Ezra 10:16–17 |
Afflictions of Assyria against Israel
The Neo-Assyrian period (935–609 B.C.) brought renewed threats from the Assyrians. God used the Assyrians to chasten wayward Israel. In Nah. 1:12 the Lord tells Judah that “Though I have afflicted you [through the Assyrians], I will afflict you no longer.”
| Assyrian Ruler | Reign | Affliction | Significance and Biblical References |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shalmaneser III | 858–824 B.C. | Exacted tribute from “Jehu, son of Omri” according to the Black Obelisk | Defeated at Qarqar in 853 B.C. by a Syrian coalition that included “Ahab the Israelite” |
| Adad-nirari III | 811–783 | Exacted tribute from Jehoash of Israel | His attacks on Damascus enabled Jehoash to recover Israelite cities lost previously to Hazael (2 Kings 13:25) |
| Tiglath-pileser III (Pul) | 745–727 | Invaded the land and exacted tribute | To avoid deportation, Menahem paid tribute to Tiglath-pileser III (Pul) (2 Kings 15:19–20); Pul deported the Transjordanian tribes (2 Kings 15:29; 1 Chron. 5:26); Pul aided Ahaz of Judah against Rezin of Damascus and Pekah of Israel (2 Kings 16:5–10; 2 Chron. 28:16–21) |
| Shalmaneser V | 727–722 | Exacted tribute from Hoshea of Israel; took the northern kingdom (Israel) into exile | Hoshea refused to pay tribute and sought Egypt for help, the Assyrians besieged Samaria (2 Kings 17:3–6; 18:9–12) |
| Sargon II | 722–705 | Took credit for the invasion and exile of the northern kingdom (Israel) that began under Shalmaneser V | Sargon II may be the unnamed king of Assyria in 2 Kings 17:6 |
| Sennacherib | 705–681 | Invaded Judah | Sennacherib besieged Lachish and forced tribute from Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:13–16); he besieged Jerusalem and demanded Hezekiah’s surrender (2 Kings 18:17–19:9); the Lord delivered Jerusalem from Sennacherib (2 Kings 19:10–37). See also 2 Chronicles 32; Isaiah 36–37 |
| Esarhaddon | 681–669 | Exacted tribute from Manasseh of Judah | Mentioned at 2 Kings 19:37 as successor to Sennacherib (see also Ezra 4:2) |
| Ashurbanipal | 669–627 | Exacted tribute | Increasing tensions from Babylonia required Assyria’s direct attention. The increased political freedom of the western city-states is reflected in the reforms instituted by Josiah |
Adversaries Hinder Work
| Ezra 4:5 | The people of the land hired counselors to work against the Israelites from the reigns of Cyrus (539–530 B.C.) to Darius (522–486) |
| Ezra 4:6 | Accusations arose during the reign of Xerxes (Ahasuerus) (486–464) |
| Ezra 4:7–23 | Accusations arose during the reign of Artaxerxes (464–423): |
| • First threat: they will withhold money (v. 13) | |
| • Second threat: the king is dishonored (v. 14) | |
| • Third threat: they have rebelled before (v. 15) | |
| • Fourth threat: they will take over the whole area (v. 16) | |
| Ezra 4:24–6:12 | Work on the temple stopped from 536–520; Darius finally gives order to rebuild it |
Kings of Persia Mentioned in Ezra–Nehemiah
| Cyrus | 539–530 B.C. |
| Darius I | 522–486 |
| Xerxes (Ahasuerus) | 485–464 |
| Artaxerxes I | 464–423 |
Zerubbabel
King Cyrus of Persia decreed that the Jewish exiles in Babylon should return to Jerusalem and rebuild the destroyed temple. Zerubbabel, whom the prophet Haggai refers to as “governor of Judah” (Hag. 1:1), was one of the first exiles to return. Along with the priest Jeshua, he rebuilt the altar of the Lord so that sacrifices could once again be made. The following year, under the guidance and supervision of Zerubbabel and Jeshua, work began on the temple itself. The foundations of the temple were laid, but opposition from local governors prevented its completion for more than 20 years. With the support of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, Zerubbabel and Jeshua resumed and completed the reconstruction of the temple during the reign of King Darius. (Ezra 5:2)
Ezra
Ezra is described as “a man learned in matters of the commandments of the Lord and his statutes for Israel” (7:11). Both a priest and scribe, Ezra was commissioned by King Artaxerxes of Persia to establish the Law of Moses in Jerusalem. The king also gave him money from the royal treasury to beautify the temple. Arriving in Jerusalem 57 years after the temple was rebuilt, Ezra appointed judges to administer the law. Seventy years of Babylonian exile had had a negative effect on the people’s relationship with the Lord. The Lord enabled Ezra to guide Israel as they sought once again to live according to the law. (Ezra 7:1–6)
Ezra 4:1–2 the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin. The area where the returned exiles lived was officially a Persian province called Beyond the River (v. 10; that is, beyond the Euphrates from the perspective of Persia). Its administrative center was in Samaria, the capital of the former northern kingdom of Israel. Its population was largely descended from peoples settled there by Esarhaddon king of Assyria (see 2 Kings 17:24–33). Assyria had been resettling exiles from other lands in this area since conquering it in 722 B.C. Let us build with you, for we worship your God as you do. Indeed, a priest had been sent to teach these peoples’ ancestors the religion of Yahweh (2 Kings 17:24–28), though the account in 2 Kings reports that they worshiped other gods as well (2 Kings 17:29–41).
Adversaries Hinder Work
| Ezra 4:5 | The people of the land hired counselors to work against the Israelites from the reigns of Cyrus (539–530 B.C.) to Darius (522–486) |
| Ezra 4:6 | Accusations arose during the reign of Xerxes (Ahasuerus) (486–464) |
| Ezra 4:7–23 | Accusations arose during the reign of Artaxerxes (464–423): |
| • First threat: they will withhold money (v. 13) | |
| • Second threat: the king is dishonored (v. 14) | |
| • Third threat: they have rebelled before (v. 15) | |
| • Fourth threat: they will take over the whole area (v. 16) | |
| Ezra 4:24–6:12 | Work on the temple stopped from 536–520; Darius finally gives order to rebuild it |
Afflictions of Assyria against Israel
The Neo-Assyrian period (935–609 B.C.) brought renewed threats from the Assyrians. God used the Assyrians to chasten wayward Israel. In Nah. 1:12 the Lord tells Judah that “Though I have afflicted you [through the Assyrians], I will afflict you no longer.”
| Assyrian Ruler | Reign | Affliction | Significance and Biblical References |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shalmaneser III | 858–824 B.C. | Exacted tribute from “Jehu, son of Omri” according to the Black Obelisk | Defeated at Qarqar in 853 B.C. by a Syrian coalition that included “Ahab the Israelite” |
| Adad-nirari III | 811–783 | Exacted tribute from Jehoash of Israel | His attacks on Damascus enabled Jehoash to recover Israelite cities lost previously to Hazael (2 Kings 13:25) |
| Tiglath-pileser III (Pul) | 745–727 | Invaded the land and exacted tribute | To avoid deportation, Menahem paid tribute to Tiglath-pileser III (Pul) (2 Kings 15:19–20); Pul deported the Transjordanian tribes (2 Kings 15:29; 1 Chron. 5:26); Pul aided Ahaz of Judah against Rezin of Damascus and Pekah of Israel (2 Kings 16:5–10; 2 Chron. 28:16–21) |
| Shalmaneser V | 727–722 | Exacted tribute from Hoshea of Israel; took the northern kingdom (Israel) into exile | Hoshea refused to pay tribute and sought Egypt for help, the Assyrians besieged Samaria (2 Kings 17:3–6; 18:9–12) |
| Sargon II | 722–705 | Took credit for the invasion and exile of the northern kingdom (Israel) that began under Shalmaneser V | Sargon II may be the unnamed king of Assyria in 2 Kings 17:6 |
| Sennacherib | 705–681 | Invaded Judah | Sennacherib besieged Lachish and forced tribute from Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:13–16); he besieged Jerusalem and demanded Hezekiah’s surrender (2 Kings 18:17–19:9); the Lord delivered Jerusalem from Sennacherib (2 Kings 19:10–37). See also 2 Chronicles 32; Isaiah 36–37 |
| Esarhaddon | 681–669 | Exacted tribute from Manasseh of Judah | Mentioned at 2 Kings 19:37 as successor to Sennacherib (see also Ezra 4:2) |
| Ashurbanipal | 669–627 | Exacted tribute | Increasing tensions from Babylonia required Assyria’s direct attention. The increased political freedom of the western city-states is reflected in the reforms instituted by Josiah |
Ezra 4:3 we alone will build to the LORD. Their stated reason for refusing the offer of help was that Cyrus’s decree applied only to the returning exiles. No doubt they also understood that the actual intent of the offer was to sabotage the project.
Ezra 4:4–5 The real attitude of these residents, now called the people of the land, becomes clear. They showed their opposition all the days of Cyrus . . . even until the reign of Darius, that is, right up to the completion of the temple in 516 B.C. They apparently turned local officials against the project. Even though the project had the full authority of King Cyrus, these local enemies took advantage of the distance of Jerusalem from the imperial capital in Persia.
Ezra 4:7–8 The occasion of this letter against the Jewish community is not known, but apparently the people had attempted to rebuild the city walls even before the arrival of Nehemiah in 445 B.C. The letter was in Aramaic, the language used by Persian diplomats. When the letter is introduced (v. 7b), the language changes from Hebrew to Aramaic until 6:18. It returns to Hebrew from 6:19 to the end of the book. Citing the letters in Aramaic gives authenticity to Ezra’s account.
Ezra 4:9–10 The people sending the letter give their names, professions, and national origins. Their ancestors were among the foreigners brought in by the conquering Assyrians to resettle the northern kingdom of Israel after 722 B.C.
The City of Nineveh
Nineveh, which was situated at the confluence of the Tigris and Khoser rivers (modern-day Mosul, Iraq), was first settled in the seventh millennium B.C. According to the Bible, Nimrod was the founder of the city (Gen. 10:11). Major excavations took place under the direction of Henry Layard from 1845 to 1854. The diagram pictures the results of those excavations, especially as they reflect the period of the Assyrian Empire (1420–609 B.C.). Around 1000 B.C. there occurred a great revival of Assyrian power, and Nineveh became a royal city. It was a thriving city during the first half of the first millennium, and contained such luxuries as public squares, parks, botanical gardens, and even a zoo. One of the great archaeological finds of the period is the library of King Ashurbanipal (669–627 B.C.; called Osnappar in Ezra 4:10). The size of the city was approximately 1,850 acres. The book of Jonah reflects the flourishing nature of Nineveh at this time (3:1–5). Nineveh eventually fell to the Medes and Babylonians in 612 B.C. The invading armies dammed the rivers that supplied water to the city, causing a flood that broke through one of the perimeter walls, giving the foreign armies access to the city.
Fact: Beyond the River
Beyond the River was the name given by Persian rulers to their province that included Judah and Israel (4:11). The “River” refers to the Euphrates River, running through present-day Iraq. From the perspective of people living in Persia, Israel was indeed “beyond the river.”
Ezra 4:12 that rebellious and wicked city. Actually, the kings of Israel and Judah had often sought compromise with their Assyrian and Babylonian oppressors. The writers of this letter assume that the Persian rulers will be easily convinced that the returned exiles are ready to rebel.
Ezra 4:13–16 The threat of an independence movement in Jerusalem is exaggerated. The imperial records would include those of Assyria and Babylon.
Ezra 4:17–22 The king allowed the work of rebuilding to be stopped by force. This may explain why it was later reported that the walls of Jerusalem lay in ruins (Neh. 1:3).
Ezra 4:6–23 This section interrupts the historical narrative (1:1–4:5), which resumes at 4:24.
Ezra 4:7–23 The author jumps forward again to another hostile episode, when leaders in the province sent a formal letter of complaint to King Artaxerxes I (reigned 464–423 B.C.).
4:1–24 Enemies Stall the Project by Conspiring against It. The rebuilding project encounters opposition from other groups in the region, and the work ceases.
Ezra 4:24 The word then picks up the story from v. 5, going back to the period soon after the first return. It is implied that the temple rebuilding had ceased soon after it began, within about two years after c. 537 B.C. (see 3:8). It resumed in the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia, 520 B.C., about 15 years later.
Chronology of Ezra
| Event | Year | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cyrus king of Persia captures Babylon | 539 B.C. | Dan. 5:30–31 |
| First year of King Cyrus; issues proclamation freeing Jewish exiles to return | 538–537 | Ezra 1:1–4 |
| Jewish exiles, led by Sheshbazzar, return from Babylon to Jerusalem | 537? | Ezra 1:11 |
| Altar rebuilt | 537 | Ezra 3:1–2 |
| Temple rebuilding begins | 536 | Ezra 3:8 |
| Adversaries oppose the rebuilding | 536–530 | Ezra 4:1–5 |
| Temple rebuilding ceases | 530–520 | Ezra 4:24 |
| Temple rebuilding resumes (2nd year of Darius) | 520 | Ezra 5:2; compare Hag. 1:14 |
| Temple construction completed (6th year of Darius) | 516 | Ezra 6:15 |
| Ezra departs from Babylon to Jerusalem (arrives in 7th year of Artaxerxes) | 458 | Ezra 7:6–9 |
| Men of Judah and Benjamin assemble at Jerusalem | 458 | Ezra 10:9 |
| Officials conduct three-month investigation | 458–457 | Ezra 10:16–17 |
Ezra 5:1–2 The prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, are also known from their books. These two books contain prophecies made in the second year of King Darius, 520 B.C. (Hag. 1:1; 2:1; Zech. 1:1, 7; see note on Ezra 4:24; see also 6:14). Haggai says the people had lost sight of their priority of rebuilding the temple (Hag. 1:4–6). Ezra 5:1–2 connects the work of the prophets and the renewed activity. Zerubbabel and Jeshua are simply reconfirming Cyrus’s decree, recognizing it as God’s will.
Chronology of Ezra
| Event | Year | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cyrus king of Persia captures Babylon | 539 B.C. | Dan. 5:30–31 |
| First year of King Cyrus; issues proclamation freeing Jewish exiles to return | 538–537 | Ezra 1:1–4 |
| Jewish exiles, led by Sheshbazzar, return from Babylon to Jerusalem | 537? | Ezra 1:11 |
| Altar rebuilt | 537 | Ezra 3:1–2 |
| Temple rebuilding begins | 536 | Ezra 3:8 |
| Adversaries oppose the rebuilding | 536–530 | Ezra 4:1–5 |
| Temple rebuilding ceases | 530–520 | Ezra 4:24 |
| Temple rebuilding resumes (2nd year of Darius) | 520 | Ezra 5:2; compare Hag. 1:14 |
| Temple construction completed (6th year of Darius) | 516 | Ezra 6:15 |
| Ezra departs from Babylon to Jerusalem (arrives in 7th year of Artaxerxes) | 458 | Ezra 7:6–9 |
| Men of Judah and Benjamin assemble at Jerusalem | 458 | Ezra 10:9 |
| Officials conduct three-month investigation | 458–457 | Ezra 10:16–17 |
Zerubbabel
King Cyrus of Persia decreed that the Jewish exiles in Babylon should return to Jerusalem and rebuild the destroyed temple. Zerubbabel, whom the prophet Haggai refers to as “governor of Judah” (Hag. 1:1), was one of the first exiles to return. Along with the priest Jeshua, he rebuilt the altar of the Lord so that sacrifices could once again be made. The following year, under the guidance and supervision of Zerubbabel and Jeshua, work began on the temple itself. The foundations of the temple were laid, but opposition from local governors prevented its completion for more than 20 years. With the support of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, Zerubbabel and Jeshua resumed and completed the reconstruction of the temple during the reign of King Darius. (Ezra 5:2)
Ezra 5:3–5 The officials Tattenai and Shethar-bozenai are much more neutral than the officials in 4:8–10. Clearly they have no knowledge of Cyrus’s decree, probably because the work had long been stopped. They are interested only in the proper authorization of this work. They do not interfere with its progress. The eye of their God was watching over the builders’ activity and protecting them.
Ezra 5:8 The province of Judah lay within the Persian province Beyond the River (see also note on 2:69). Tattenai (5:6) served as governor of the province, in Samaria. The house of the great God is a diplomatic way of referring to the temple and the God of Israel. It does not imply the letter writers believe in him.
Ezra 5:11 The letter writers probably got their information from the returned exiles themselves, since it reflects their understanding of the situation. Instead of giving their actual names when asked, the returned exiles say, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth. That is, they are serving the one true God of the whole world. The great king of Israel is Solomon.
Ezra 5:12 This verse sums up the message of 1–2 Kings.
Ezra 5:14 Sheshbazzar was one of the early leaders of the returning exiles (see 1:8). Here he is called governor, a name applied to Tattenai himself in 5:3. The term could be used loosely, since Judah would not have had a “governor” on a par with the governor of the entire province Beyond the River (v. 6, etc.). Darius’s reply also refers to a “governor of the Jews” (6:7), a name given to Zerubbabel in Hag. 1:1.
Ezra 5:13–15 These verses repeat information given in 1:2–4. The text stops short of claiming that Cyrus had also commanded that the rebuilding be funded by donations from places in Babylon where the exiles lived (see note on 1:3–4). This was perhaps more than Tattenai or even the exiles cared to suggest at this point.
5:1–17 The Work Is Resumed, and Local Officials Seek Confirmation of Cyrus’s Decree. After a period of inactivity, the leaders resume work on rebuilding the temple, and provincial officials inquire into its legitimacy.
Ezra 5:6–17 Verse 6 introduces the copy of the letter sent by Tattenai and Shethar-bozenai to Darius, and vv. 8–17 recite the letter itself.
Ezra 5:16–17 it has been in building. The period when building had stopped was irrelevant both to the information Tattenai was giving and the request he was making. Tattenai, following the Jews’ own account, wants to link the original authorization and the present building activity. So he portrays Sheshbazzar as having laid the temple’s foundations, since it was under his authority, though that achievement is attributed to Zerubbabel and Jeshua in 3:8–10.
Fact: The Behistun Inscription
The Behistun Inscription. This 50-by-80-foot (15-by-24 m) inscription was carved into the face of a cliff in western Iran. Using various languages, it provides an autobiography of Darius’s life, lineage, and victories as king of Persia.
Ezra 6:1–2 King Darius’s search for Cyrus’s decree is made first in Babylonia. This is where Cyrus had declared himself king in 539 B.C. and where many exiled Jews lived. But the scroll containing it was found in Ecbatana, a summer residence of Persian kings, where Cyrus may have gone soon after his triumph over Babylon. The province of Media was formerly the seat of an empire itself, but Cyrus had made it part of Persia. The document discovered is a record, apparently a memorandum on the decree rather than the decree itself, which would probably have been on a clay tablet.
Zerubbabel’s Temple
The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s temple was done in stages (c. 536–516 B.C.). First, the altar was built, so that sacrifices could again be made (Ezra 3:2–3). The second phase was the laying of the foundation of the temple. This elicited mixed reactions from the people. Some rejoiced that the foundation was laid, while others, especially the elder priests, were sad, presumably because the quality of construction was inferior to that of the previous temple. Due to the opposition of the local population and the lack of motivation among the Jews, it took 20 years to complete the construction of the temple building.
The only information given in the biblical record about the architecture of the temple is the dimensions, which were sixty cubits (90 feet /27 m) high and wide (Ezra 6:3). As there is no mention of the length of the building, these dimensions must refer to the facade of the temple, i.e., the Porch.
Ezra 6:4 Using three layers of great stones and one layer of timber follows the construction of the older temple (1 Kings 6:36; 7:12). While the original decree had required people in Babylon to help pay for the project (Ezra 1:4), this record requires that the cost be met from the royal treasury.
Ezra 6:3–5 This record is not identical with the decree as recorded in 1:2–4. It gives new specifications about the building, its location, its size, and its materials. Perhaps a copy of the original decree had been found (see note on 6:1–2), and instructions may have been added to it. Also, different copies of Cyrus’s original decree may have been made for different purposes (the one in 1:2–4 included wording for public proclamation, while this version in 6:3–5 was for the royal archives). The size of the temple might be specified in order to limit it, since public funds were being used to pay for it. The absence of a length dimension is odd, and the greater breadth than Solomon’s temple is unexpected (compare 1 Kings 6:2), especially in view of Ezra 3:12.
Ezra 6:8–10 Darius confirms Cyrus’s decree and also provides for costs from taxes raised in the province Beyond the River itself (v. 8). He also provides materials for sacrifices (v. 9), with the political condition that the Jews would pray for the life of the king and his sons (v. 10). Darius’s generosity was part of his plan for maintaining Persian power.
Ezra 6:11–12 Darius makes a further decree, backed up with a typical threat. He borrows language from the Israelite way of speaking about God’s presence in Jerusalem (the God who has caused his name to dwell there, compare Deut. 12:5). This does not necessarily mean that Darius believes in the one true God (compare note on Ezra 1:3–4).
Adversaries Hinder Work
| Ezra 4:5 | The people of the land hired counselors to work against the Israelites from the reigns of Cyrus (539–530 B.C.) to Darius (522–486) |
| Ezra 4:6 | Accusations arose during the reign of Xerxes (Ahasuerus) (486–464) |
| Ezra 4:7–23 | Accusations arose during the reign of Artaxerxes (464–423): |
| • First threat: they will withhold money (v. 13) | |
| • Second threat: the king is dishonored (v. 14) | |
| • Third threat: they have rebelled before (v. 15) | |
| • Fourth threat: they will take over the whole area (v. 16) | |
| Ezra 4:24–6:12 | Work on the temple stopped from 536–520; Darius finally gives order to rebuild it |
Zerubbabel’s Temple
The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s temple was done in stages (c. 536–516 B.C.). First, the altar was built, so that sacrifices could again be made (Ezra 3:2–3). The second phase was the laying of the foundation of the temple. This elicited mixed reactions from the people. Some rejoiced that the foundation was laid, while others, especially the elder priests, were sad, presumably because the quality of construction was inferior to that of the previous temple. Due to the opposition of the local population and the lack of motivation among the Jews, it took 20 years to complete the construction of the temple building.
The only information given in the biblical record about the architecture of the temple is the dimensions, which were sixty cubits (90 feet /27 m) high and wide (Ezra 6:3). As there is no mention of the length of the building, these dimensions must refer to the facade of the temple, i.e., the Porch.
Ezra 6:14 God, speaking here through his prophets, is the real power behind events. But the actions of the Persian kings on behalf of the Jews are also acknowledged.
Ezra 6:15 The month of Adar (February/March) was the last month of the year. The sixth year of the reign of Darius was 515 B.C., almost exactly 70 years after the destruction of the first temple (586), fulfilling the prophecy of 70 years of exile (see note on 1:1).
Chronology of Ezra
| Event | Year | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cyrus king of Persia captures Babylon | 539 B.C. | Dan. 5:30–31 |
| First year of King Cyrus; issues proclamation freeing Jewish exiles to return | 538–537 | Ezra 1:1–4 |
| Jewish exiles, led by Sheshbazzar, return from Babylon to Jerusalem | 537? | Ezra 1:11 |
| Altar rebuilt | 537 | Ezra 3:1–2 |
| Temple rebuilding begins | 536 | Ezra 3:8 |
| Adversaries oppose the rebuilding | 536–530 | Ezra 4:1–5 |
| Temple rebuilding ceases | 530–520 | Ezra 4:24 |
| Temple rebuilding resumes (2nd year of Darius) | 520 | Ezra 5:2; compare Hag. 1:14 |
| Temple construction completed (6th year of Darius) | 516 | Ezra 6:15 |
| Ezra departs from Babylon to Jerusalem (arrives in 7th year of Artaxerxes) | 458 | Ezra 7:6–9 |
| Men of Judah and Benjamin assemble at Jerusalem | 458 | Ezra 10:9 |
| Officials conduct three-month investigation | 458–457 | Ezra 10:16–17 |
Fact: How long did it take to rebuild the temple?
How long did it take to rebuild the temple? The Jews returning from exile faced many obstacles in rebuilding the temple. The non-Jewish people now living in the land resisted their efforts, and the returned exiles often lacked the motivation to work. The temple took 20 years to complete, and it fell far short of the grandeur of Solomon’s temple.
Ezra 6:16–17 the people of Israel. Even though the returned exiles consisted of only three tribes (see note on 1:5), they represent all 12, the number of the tribes of Israel. The other divisions, the priests and the Levites and the laity, are a typical way of describing the whole community in Ezra. with joy. The Lord had fulfilled his prophecies and answered his people’s prayers. There is spontaneous joy when God’s people see evidence that he is working in the world. The dedication of this house follows its completion.
Ezra 6:18 The priests and Levites are set in their divisions, grouped according to their temple duties, as King David had done (1 Chronicles 23–27).
The Hebrew Calendar
The Hebrew calendar was composed of 12 lunar months, each of which began when the thin crescent moon was first visible at sunset. They were composed of approximately 29/30 days and were built around the agricultural seasons. Apparently some of the names of the months were changed after the time of Israel’s exile in Babylon (e.g., the first month of Abib changed to Nisan; for dates of the exile, see p. 31). The months of the Hebrew calendar (left column) are compared to the corresponding months of the modern (Gregorian) calendar shown in the center column. Biblical references (in the third column) indicate references to the Hebrew calendar cited in the Bible.
*Periodically, a 13th month was added so that the lunar calendar would account for the entire solar year.
Ezra 6:21 Remarkably, the returning Jews are joined by every one who had . . . separated himself from the uncleanness of the peoples of the land to worship the LORD. The community was based on faith rather than on ancestry. Non-Israelites who expressed faith in God and a willingness to follow his law were welcome.
Ezra 3:1–6:22 The Returned Exiles Rebuild the Temple on Its Original Site. The book of Ezra spans several generations. The returnees begin rebuilding, encounter resistance, and finally receive renewed permission to rebuild.
6:1–22 King Darius Discovers and Reaffirms Cyrus’s Decree, and the Work Is Completed. A record of Cyrus’s decree is discovered, and King Darius confirms that the Jews are to be allowed to continue the work.
Ezra 6:19–22 The text returns from Aramaic to Hebrew in v. 19 (see note on 4:7–8). The Passover is kept on its appointed date, followed immediately by the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which lasts for seven days (see Lev. 23:5–6). Participating are the people of Israel and the people of the land who had joined them (see note on Ezra 6:21). Persia’s king now ruled over the territorial empire of the Assyrians, so he could be called king of Assyria.
Ezra 7:1–7 Ezra is introduced first as a priest, in the line of Aaron the chief priest. He comes to Jerusalem in the seventh year, that is, in 458 B.C., 57 years after the temple dedication.
Ezra 7:6–7 Ezra is a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses. The people badly need instruction in the law. Ezra has apparently asked the king for permission and resources to go to Jerusalem (v. 7). Artaxerxes grants Ezra all that he needs, for the hand of the LORD his God was on him (see note on 1:1). Ezra comes to Judah with a new wave of immigrants.
Ezra 7:9 the first month . . . the fifth month. The journey of 900 miles (1,448 km) from Babylon to Jerusalem took nearly four months. This was a slow pace, probably because the caravan included children and elderly people.
The Hebrew Calendar
The Hebrew calendar was composed of 12 lunar months, each of which began when the thin crescent moon was first visible at sunset. They were composed of approximately 29/30 days and were built around the agricultural seasons. Apparently some of the names of the months were changed after the time of Israel’s exile in Babylon (e.g., the first month of Abib changed to Nisan; for dates of the exile, see p. 31). The months of the Hebrew calendar (left column) are compared to the corresponding months of the modern (Gregorian) calendar shown in the center column. Biblical references (in the third column) indicate references to the Hebrew calendar cited in the Bible.
*Periodically, a 13th month was added so that the lunar calendar would account for the entire solar year.
Chronology of Ezra
| Event | Year | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cyrus king of Persia captures Babylon | 539 B.C. | Dan. 5:30–31 |
| First year of King Cyrus; issues proclamation freeing Jewish exiles to return | 538–537 | Ezra 1:1–4 |
| Jewish exiles, led by Sheshbazzar, return from Babylon to Jerusalem | 537? | Ezra 1:11 |
| Altar rebuilt | 537 | Ezra 3:1–2 |
| Temple rebuilding begins | 536 | Ezra 3:8 |
| Adversaries oppose the rebuilding | 536–530 | Ezra 4:1–5 |
| Temple rebuilding ceases | 530–520 | Ezra 4:24 |
| Temple rebuilding resumes (2nd year of Darius) | 520 | Ezra 5:2; compare Hag. 1:14 |
| Temple construction completed (6th year of Darius) | 516 | Ezra 6:15 |
| Ezra departs from Babylon to Jerusalem (arrives in 7th year of Artaxerxes) | 458 | Ezra 7:6–9 |
| Men of Judah and Benjamin assemble at Jerusalem | 458 | Ezra 10:9 |
| Officials conduct three-month investigation | 458–457 | Ezra 10:16–17 |
Fact: How long was the journey from Babylon to Jerusalem?
How long was the journey from Babylon to Jerusalem? It took Ezra and the caravan he was traveling with four months to traverse the nearly 900 miles (1,448 km) from Babylon to Jerusalem. An army could have traveled much faster, but Ezra’s entourage probably included children and elderly people.
Ezra 7:10 Ezra’s mission was to teach God’s statutes and rules. These appear throughout Exodus to Deuteronomy, especially in Exodus 20–23, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy 12–26.
Ezra 7:12 The title king of kings was used by Persia’s kings. It expresses their sovereignty over many conquered peoples. Ezra is called the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven. This may refer to a responsibility he had in Babylon, even before returning to Jerusalem.
Ezra 7:13–14 The decree from Artaxerxes echoes Cyrus’s decree in authorizing any Jews who wish to go to Jerusalem (compare 1:3). The charge to make inquiries about Judah and Jerusalem according to the Law of your God no doubt reflects Ezra’s own priority, and perhaps his belief that the law is not being properly kept there.
Ezra 7:15–18 Ezra is permitted to gather further resources in the whole province of Babylonia. He is permitted to decide how best to use the resources.
Ezra 7:19–20 vessels . . . for the service of the house of your God. Artaxerxes adds these to the temple treasures previously returned by Cyrus, apparently as his own gift. He also allows Ezra whatever he needs from the public funds in the king’s treasury.
Ezra 7:22 The talent was 75 pounds (34 kg). The amount of silver has been estimated at a quarter to a third of all the annual taxes paid in the province Beyond the River. The wheat, wine, and oil would have been used for cereal offerings, for drink offerings, and for the lamp in the temple (Ex. 27:20; 29:2). The quantities would have supplied the temple’s needs for two years. Salt, supplied without limit, was for preservation and seasoning (Ex. 30:35; Lev. 2:13).
Ezra 7:27 who put such a thing as this into the heart of the king. See note on 1:1. to beautify the house of the LORD. The author uses the same terms as Isa. 60:7 (see note on Isa. 60:5–7); he sees this event as fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy.
7:1–28 King Artaxerxes Gives Ezra Authority to Establish the Mosaic Law. Artaxerxes gives Ezra the authority to establish the Mosaic law in Judah, to appoint officials to administer the law, and to provide for the further adornment of the temple.
Ezra
Ezra is described as “a man learned in matters of the commandments of the Lord and his statutes for Israel” (7:11). Both a priest and scribe, Ezra was commissioned by King Artaxerxes of Persia to establish the Law of Moses in Jerusalem. The king also gave him money from the royal treasury to beautify the temple. Arriving in Jerusalem 57 years after the temple was rebuilt, Ezra appointed judges to administer the law. Seventy years of Babylonian exile had had a negative effect on the people’s relationship with the Lord. The Lord enabled Ezra to guide Israel as they sought once again to live according to the law. (Ezra 7:1–6)
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Listen NowDive Deeper | Ezra 4-7
Around the time Ezra was written, the Babylonian empire was conquered by the Persians. Assyria had become Babylon, which then became Persia; and though these names are used interchangeably in Ezra, Persia ruled differently from its predecessors. Babylon forced its subjects to worship the Babylonian god, but Persia had a more progressive belief—if its subjects worshiped their own gods, their gods would bless them, and then Persia would be blessed.
This mindset is not unlike that of today's culture, which encourages people to "live their truth" and believe whatever they want to believe. The Persian kings issued decrees that allowed the Jewish people to rebuild the temple and reinstitute the worship of God in Jerusalem. Ezra's job was to restore the knowledge of God's Law to God's people and to teach them to keep His commands.
We have all set our hearts on something. We know that insatiable feeling we just cannot shake, no matter how hard we try. Ezra set his heart on studying, practicing, and teaching the Law of the Lord in Israel. He knew the history of the Jews—how they trusted in sinful kings instead of God; worshiped idols instead of God; lived to please themselves instead of God; and disregarded, disobeyed, and even forgot about God's Word. God faithfully disciplined the Jews in their sin by letting them be conquered and exiled, and then He graciously restored them to fellowship and worship. Now that the Jews are back in their land with the new temple finished, how do they respond to God's faithfulness? Ezra's response is to know God through His Word, to teach his people what it says, and to do what it says even if he is the only one doing it.
God was faithful then, and He is faithful today. He was faithful when Jesus Christ gave Himself to suffer death and exile from fellowship with the Father and the Spirit for our sin. Then Jesus rose from the dead, defeating sin and death, to offer us restoration to fellowship and worship. Ezra agrees: God is worth setting your heart on.
This month's memory verse
"The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”
– Job 1:21b
Discussion Questions
1. A repeated theme in Ezra is God moving the hearts of the kings. Verses like Proverbs 21:1 and Psalm 146:3-5 reiterate God's power and sovereignty over political leaders. God used the kings of Babylon and Persia to discipline and restore His people. Do you believe that God can and will move through political leaders today?
2. Do you put your hope in human leaders or in God? Pray for your government leaders.
3. What do you set your heart on other than God's Word? Do you want to be like Ezra? Pray that God will set your heart to know, keep, and teach His Word.