Discovery of Cyrus’s Decree

Search and Discovery

In response to the inquiry initiated by Tattenai, governor beyond the River, during the reign of Darius, the Persian king orders a search for the decree issued by Cyrus concerning the temple in Jerusalem. The scroll is eventually found in Achmetha (Ecbatana) in the province of Media, not in Babylon as might have been expected. This document confirms that Cyrus had indeed decreed the rebuilding of the temple, including specific instructions about its dimensions and funding arrangements (Ezra 6:1-5).

Contents of the Decree

The decree not only authorizes the reconstruction of the temple but also orders that the expenses be paid from the royal treasury. Additionally, it directs the return of the temple vessels that Nebuchadnezzar had taken to Babylon, ensuring they are restored to their proper place in Jerusalem (Ezra 6:3-5).

Darius’s Support for the Temple Completion

Reinforcement of the Decree

King Darius not only upholds the decree of Cyrus but also strengthens it with additional orders. He commands Tattenai and his associates not to interfere with the work on the temple. Moreover, Darius decrees that costs are to be fully covered by the royal revenue from the taxes of the Trans-Euphrates, and that the Jewish elders are to be provided with whatever is needed for the sacrifices to the God of heaven, including young bulls, rams, and lambs for offerings, and wheat, salt, wine, and oil, as requested by the priests in Jerusalem (Ezra 6:6-10).

Threat of Penalties

Darius further orders that anyone who alters the decree will suffer severe penalties, showing the seriousness of his commitment to the project. He prays that God would overthrow any king or people who attempts to alter the decree or destroy the temple (Ezra 6:11-12).

Completion and Dedication of the Temple

Completion of the Work

The Jewish leaders continue to build and prosper under the prophesying of Haggai and Zechariah. The temple is completed on the third day of the month Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of Darius, marking a significant achievement for the returning exiles and a testament to God’s faithfulness and provision (Ezra 6:14-15).

Dedication of the Temple

The temple is dedicated with joy. The Israelites offer numerous sacrifices and appoint priests and Levites to their divisions and duties, according to the Book of Moses. This formal dedication signifies a renewal of religious practices and a restoration of proper worship according to the Law (Ezra 6:16-18).

Celebration of the Passover

The returnees also celebrate the Passover on the fourteenth day of the first month. The exiles, purified together with the Levites, all of them pure, partake in the Passover. This celebration includes not only those from the captivity but all who had separated themselves from the impurity of their Gentile neighbors to seek the Lord (Ezra 6:19-21). It marks a full restoration of the community’s religious identity and practices.

Theological Significance

Connection to Jesus Christ

The rebuilding and dedication of the temple prefigure Christ, who proclaimed Himself the true temple (John 2:19-21). In Christ, the physical temple’s significance is transcended by His person and work, establishing a new way for believers to access God through His sacrifice, thus fulfilling and surpassing the temple’s role.

Divine Love and Relationship

The chapter illustrates God’s unwavering commitment to His promises and His loving provision for His people. The successful completion of the temple despite opposition reflects God’s power to fulfill His purposes and His desire for His people to live in a restored relationship with Him.

Contemporary Relevance

Why Ezra 6 Still Matters Today

God’s Faithfulness and Human Cooperation

Ezra 6 teaches that God’s faithfulness often works in concert with human authority and cooperation. It encourages believers to trust in God’s provision and to seek lawful means to achieve godly ends.

Importance of Communal Worship

The dedication of the temple and the celebration of the Passover highlight the importance of communal worship and the joy that comes from corporate religious observance. It reminds modern believers of the value of community in spiritual practices.

Resilience in the Face of Opposition

This narrative inspires resilience and perseverance. It demonstrates that opposition and challenges, even from significant powers, can be overcome by faith and reliance on God’s word and provisions.

Ezra 6 not only recounts the physical completion of the temple but also offers profound lessons on the power of divine provision, the importance of communal faith practices, and the enduring relevance of God’s word in guiding His people through all circumstances.