Ezra CommentaryThe Bible Says Commentary on Ezra

The Book of Ezra describes the return of Jewish exiles from Babylon and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Traditionally, the book is attributed to Ezra, a scribe and priest who came to Jerusalem from Babylon to help restore proper worship and study of the law. This period follows the seventy years of captivity prophesied by Jeremiah, and it highlights the Jewish community’s effort to rebuild the sacred institutions that had been destroyed. Beyond mere physical construction, the narrative underscores God’s faithfulness to His people and their need to follow His commands.

The story begins with the decree of King Cyrus of Persia (who reigned approximately 559-530 BC) around 538 BC, permitting the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Cyrus, having overthrown the Babylonian Empire, sought to allow subject peoples to reclaim their homelands and deities, ensuring political stability throughout his domain. Jerusalem itself, located in the region of Judah, had been devastated by the Babylonians in 586 BC and required significant effort to restore. The people who returned dedicated themselves first to the altar, so they could offer sacrifices according to the law. They then proceeded with laying the foundation for the new temple, as reflected in the text: “Then they set up the altar on its foundation…” (Ezra 3:3).

Opposition arose during the rebuilding process, resulting in delays until King Darius (who reigned from 522-486 BC) reissued support for the project. Eventually, the temple was completed and dedicated with great joy, demonstrating God's hand in restoring what had been lost. Later, Ezra himself arrived in Jerusalem with a second wave of exiles, armed with permission from King Artaxerxes (who reigned from 465-424 BC) to teach and apply the law among the returned community. Ezra led a renewed focus on spiritual commitment, calling on the people to uphold the covenant, unify in worship, and preserve the purity of their faith and practices. This restored religious environment was crucial in preparing the way for the Jewish community’s future growth and commitment to their God-given identity.