Ezra 2:68

KJV

And [some] of the chief of the fathers, when they came to the house of the LORD which [is] at Jerusalem, offered freely for the house of God to set it up in his place:

KJV (with Strong's)

And some of the chief {H7218} of the fathers {H1}, when they came {H935} to the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068} which is at Jerusalem {H3389}, offered freely {H5068} for the house {H1004} of God {H430} to set it up {H5975} in his place {H4349}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Some of the heads of fathers' clans, when they came to the house of ADONAI in Yerushalayim, made voluntary offerings for rebuilding the house of God on its site.

Berean Standard Bible

When they arrived at the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings to rebuild the house of God on its original site.

American Standard Version

And some of the heads of fathers’ houses, when they came to the house of Jehovah which is in Jerusalem, offered willingly for the house of God to set it up in its place:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 2:68 marks a pivotal moment in the post-exilic return, detailing the immediate and heartfelt commitment of the returning Jewish leaders to the restoration of central worship in Jerusalem. Following a meticulous census of those who returned from Babylonian captivity, this verse highlights their spontaneous and generous contributions toward rebuilding the "house of the LORD," the Temple, on its original site, signifying a profound spiritual priority and renewed hope for the community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the extensive genealogical and numerical lists in [Ezra 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - The List of Returnees"), which meticulously records the families and individuals who returned from Babylon under Zerubbabel and Jeshua. The detailed census underscores the divine preservation of the covenant people and their organized return. Upon their arrival in Jerusalem, Ezra 2:68 transitions from the logistics of the return to the spiritual imperative that drove them: the re-establishment of worship. This act of giving directly precedes the significant events of [Ezra 3](/ezra/3 "Ezra 3 - Rebuilding the Altar and Laying the Temple Foundation"), where the altar is rebuilt and the foundation of the Temple is laid, demonstrating that the financial commitment of the leaders was the necessary precursor to the physical reconstruction. The verse thus serves as a bridge, moving from the *who* of the return to the *what* of their immediate spiritual priorities.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for Ezra 2:68 is the immediate aftermath of the seventy-year Babylonian exile, a period of profound national and spiritual trauma for the Jewish people. The return was made possible by the decree of Cyrus the Great, the Persian king, around 538 BC, allowing the exiles to return to their homeland and rebuild their Temple ([Ezra 1:1-4](/ezra/1-1 "Ezra 1:1-4 - Cyrus's Decree")). Jerusalem, the former capital, lay in ruins, and the Temple, the heart of their religious life, had been utterly destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC. For the returning exiles, the Temple was not merely a building; it was the symbol of God's presence among His people, the place of atonement, and the center of their national identity and covenant relationship with Yahweh. Their voluntary offering reflects a deep cultural and religious understanding that the restoration of their nation was inextricably linked to the restoration of proper worship and God's dwelling place among them.
* **Key Themes:** Ezra 2:68 powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to the book of Ezra and the post-exilic period. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Voluntary and Generous Giving**, emphasizing that the contributions were spontaneous and heartfelt, not coerced, setting a precedent for the entire rebuilding project. Secondly, it showcases **Leadership by Example**, as "the chief of the fathers" took the initiative, demonstrating their commitment to God's house and inspiring the community. This leadership was crucial for mobilizing resources and morale for the daunting task ahead. Thirdly, the verse underscores the **Priority of Worship and God's Presence**, as the immediate focus upon arrival was the "house of the LORD," demonstrating that establishing proper worship was paramount to their identity and covenant. Finally, it speaks to **Restoration and Hope**, symbolizing the beginning of spiritual and national renewal after a long period of exile, representing a renewed hope for God's active presence and blessing in Jerusalem, echoing prophetic promises of restoration found in books like [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - Promises of Restoration").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Chief of the fathers (Hebrew: ראשׁי האבות, _ro'she ha'avot'_):** This phrase refers to the heads of the ancestral houses or clans, the leading figures of the returning community. These were not just any individuals but those holding positions of authority and respect within the tribal and family structures. Their initiative in giving was crucial, as it set a powerful example for the rest of the community and demonstrated a collective commitment from the top leadership. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership in mobilizing resources and fostering devotion within a community.
* **Offered freely (Hebrew: נדב, _nadab'_):** This verb signifies a willing, spontaneous, and generous contribution, often specifically in the context of sacred offerings or voluntary service to God. It implies a cheerful and uncompelled spirit of giving, stemming from devotion rather than obligation or taxation. The use of _nadab_ here is significant, echoing similar voluntary offerings for the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness ([Exodus 35:29](/exodus/35-29 "Exodus 35:29 - Freewill Offerings for the Tabernacle")) and for the Temple in David's time ([1 Chronicles 29:9](/1_chronicles/29-9 "1 Chronicles 29:9 - David's and the People's Freewill Offerings")). It underscores that the rebuilding project was not merely a civic duty but a spiritual act of worship and devotion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And [some] of the chief of the fathers,"**: This phrase identifies the primary actors in this significant act of generosity. It emphasizes that the initiative came from the established leadership, the heads of the family units who had returned from exile. Their position gave weight to their actions, setting a precedent for the entire community. The KJV's "[some]" is an interpretive addition, suggesting that not all the chief fathers necessarily gave, but the core meaning is that the leaders were at the forefront of this movement.
* **"when they came to the house of the LORD which [is] at Jerusalem,"**: This clause specifies the location and the object of their immediate attention. "The house of the LORD" refers to the Temple, which, though in ruins, still occupied its sacred site in Jerusalem. Their arrival at this specific location underscores their spiritual pilgrimage and their immediate focus on the sacred center of their faith, even before settling their own homes. It highlights the profound spiritual significance of the Temple site for the returning exiles.
* **"offered freely for the house of God to set it up in his place:"**: This is the core action and its purpose. "Offered freely" (as discussed above) emphasizes the voluntary, generous, and devoted nature of their contributions. The purpose was explicitly "for the house of God," meaning the Temple, and "to set it up in his place," indicating their intention to rebuild it on its original, divinely appointed foundation. This demonstrates their commitment not just to a building, but to the restoration of proper worship and God's dwelling among them in Jerusalem.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 2:68 employs several subtle but powerful literary devices. **Emphasis** is placed on the voluntary nature of the offering through the use of the verb _nadab_, highlighting a spirit of devotion rather than obligation, which is crucial for the success of such a monumental undertaking. The phrase "chief of the fathers" uses **Synecdoche**, where a part (the leaders) represents the whole (the leading families or even the entire community's initial commitment), implying that their actions set the tone for the broader population. The "house of the LORD" serves as a potent **Symbolism**, representing not just a physical structure but the very presence of God among His people, their national identity, and the covenant relationship. The act of offering for its rebuilding is itself a **Symbolic Act**, signifying renewed hope, faith, and commitment to God's promises after generations of exile.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 2:68 is rich with theological significance, connecting the post-exilic community's actions to enduring principles of faith and worship. The voluntary and generous giving of the "chief of the fathers" underscores the biblical principle that true worship involves not only spiritual devotion but also tangible sacrifice and support for God's work. Their immediate focus on the "house of the LORD" demonstrates a profound understanding of God's centrality to their national and individual lives, recognizing that the restoration of their physical dwelling in the land was intrinsically linked to the restoration of God's spiritual dwelling among them. This act of faith and generosity, even in the face of immense challenges, reflects a deep trust in God's covenant faithfulness and a commitment to re-establishing the foundational elements of their identity as His chosen people. It highlights that God's work often progresses through the willing hearts and resources of His people, led by example.

* [Exodus 35:29](/exodus/35-29 "Exodus 35:29 - Freewill Offerings for the Tabernacle")
* [1 Chronicles 29:9](/1_chronicles/29-9 "1 Chronicles 29:9 - David's and the People's Freewill Offerings")
* [2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 2:68 offers timeless lessons for believers today, particularly concerning our posture towards God's work and the role of leadership. The spontaneous and generous giving of the returning exiles serves as a powerful model for Christian stewardship. Our contributions, whether financial, through time, or by utilizing our talents, should flow from a willing heart, motivated by devotion and love for God, rather than obligation or compulsion. Just as the "chief of the fathers" led by example, those in positions of spiritual leadership within the church are called to model sacrificial giving and unwavering commitment to God's purposes, inspiring and mobilizing the wider community. Furthermore, the exiles' immediate prioritization of the Temple underscores the enduring importance of prioritizing God's presence and corporate worship in our lives. In a world often consumed by personal pursuits, this verse calls us to actively support and participate in the building up of God's spiritual house—the church—fostering environments where God's presence is honored, His Word is proclaimed, and His mission is advanced, much like the commitment shown in [Nehemiah 4:6](/nehemiah/4-6 "Nehemiah 4:6 - The People Had a Mind to Work").

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to "offer freely" to the Lord, beyond just financial contributions?**
* **How does the example of the "chief of the fathers" challenge or inspire your own leadership or participation within your faith community?**
* **What does it mean for you personally to "prioritize the house of the LORD" in your daily life and commitments?**
* **How can your giving reflect a "cheerful" and "willing" heart, rather than a sense of obligation?**

### FAQ

**Why was rebuilding the Temple the immediate priority for the returning exiles?**

Answer: Rebuilding the Temple was the immediate priority because it was the central place of worship, sacrifice, and communion with God for the Jewish people. Its destruction during the Babylonian exile was not just the loss of a building but a profound spiritual trauma, symbolizing the absence of God's manifest presence among them. For the returning exiles, restoring the "house of the LORD" was essential for re-establishing their covenant relationship with God, fulfilling prophetic promises of restoration, and reclaiming their identity as God's chosen people in the land. It signified their commitment to proper worship and their belief that God would once again dwell among them, as seen in the joyous dedication in [Ezra 6:16](/ezra/6-16 "Ezra 6:16 - Dedication of the Temple").

**What is the significance of the phrase "offered freely" for our understanding of giving today?**

Answer: The phrase "offered freely" (Hebrew: _nadab_) emphasizes that the contributions were voluntary, spontaneous, and motivated by devotion rather than compulsion or obligation. For our understanding of giving today, this highlights the biblical principle that God desires gifts that come from a cheerful heart, not grudgingly or under necessity ([2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver")). It signifies that true generosity is an act of worship, reflecting a willing spirit and a deep love for God and His work. It encourages believers to give with joy and purpose, recognizing that all we have comes from God and is to be used for His glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 2:68, with its emphasis on the restoration of the Temple through the free offerings of the leaders, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament. The physical Temple, to which the exiles so eagerly contributed, ultimately pointed to Jesus Christ as the true and ultimate Temple of God. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," referring to His body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). The free and willing offerings of the "chief of the fathers" foreshadow the ultimate, unparalleled free offering of Christ Himself, who "gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity" ([Titus 2:14](/titus/2-14 "Titus 2:14 - Christ Gave Himself for Us")). His sacrifice was not compelled but was a voluntary act of love, fulfilling the very spirit of _nadab_. Furthermore, just as the exiles rebuilt a physical house for God, Christ, through His death and resurrection, is building a spiritual house—the Church—composed of living stones, believers united in Him ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, a Spiritual House")). In Christ, God's presence no longer dwells in a building made with hands, but within His people, the body of Christ, making every believer a part of the new, eternal Temple ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). Thus, the hopeful act of giving in Ezra 2:68 anticipates the greater reality of Christ's self-giving and the establishment of His eternal spiritual kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 9:7

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Exodus 36:3

And they received of Moses all the offering, which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of the sanctuary, to make it [withal]. And they brought yet unto him free offerings every morning.

2 Corinthians 8:3

For to [their] power, I bear record, yea, and beyond [their] power [they were] willing of themselves;

Exodus 35:29

The children of Israel brought a willing offering unto the LORD, every man and woman, whose heart made them willing to bring for all manner of work, which the LORD had commanded to be made by the hand of Moses.

2 Chronicles 3:1

¶ Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD at Jerusalem in mount Moriah, where [the LORD] appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.

Numbers 7:3

And they brought their offering before the LORD, six covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the tabernacle.

Numbers 7:89

And when Moses was gone into the tabernacle of the congregation to speak with him, then he heard the voice of one speaking unto him from off the mercy seat that [was] upon the ark of testimony, from between the two cherubims: and he spake unto him.