Ezra 3:3

KJV

And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear [was] upon them because of the people of those countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, [even] burnt offerings morning and evening.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they set {H3559} the altar {H4196} upon his bases {H4350}; for fear {H367} was upon them because of the people {H5971} of those countries {H776}: and they offered {H5927} burnt offerings {H5930} thereon unto the LORD {H3068}, even burnt offerings {H5930} morning {H1242} and evening {H6153}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They set up the altar on its former bases. Despite feeling threatened by the peoples of the [surrounding] countries; they offered on it burnt offerings to ADONAI, the morning and evening burnt offerings.

Berean Standard Bible

They set up the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the LORD—both the morning and evening burnt offerings—even though they feared the people of the land.

American Standard Version

And they set the altar upon its base; for fear was upon them because of the peoples of the countries: and they offered burnt-offerings thereon unto Jehovah, even burnt-offerings morning and evening.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 3:3 describes the immediate and courageous action of the Jewish exiles returning to Jerusalem to re-establish proper worship of the Lord. Despite palpable fear of the hostile local populations, Zerubbabel and Jeshua led the community in setting up the altar on its original foundations and meticulously resuming the daily burnt offerings, signifying their unwavering commitment to God's covenant and prescribed worship even before the Temple structure was rebuilt. This act highlights their spiritual priority and faith amidst significant adversity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated early in the book of Ezra, following King Cyrus's decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their Temple ([Ezra 1](/ezra/1 "Ezra 1 - Cyrus's Decree")). After the initial list of returnees in [Ezra 2](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - List of Returnees"), [Ezra 3](/ezra/3 "Ezra 3 - The Altar Rebuilt and Offerings Resumed") opens with the gathering of the people in Jerusalem in the seventh month. Before any work began on the Temple itself, the immediate priority, as seen in [Ezra 3:2](/ezra/3-2 "Ezra 3:2 - Jeshua and Zerubbabel Build the Altar"), was to rebuild the altar. This verse then details the actual setting of the altar and the resumption of sacrifices, establishing the spiritual foundation for the community's restoration. The subsequent verses in [Ezra 3](/ezra/3 "Ezra 3 - The Altar Rebuilt and Offerings Resumed") describe the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles and the laying of the Temple's foundation, reinforcing the chronological and spiritual progression.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Ezra 3:3 unfold in the post-exilic period, specifically around 538 BC, following the seventy-year Babylonian captivity. The returning exiles, a relatively small and vulnerable group, found themselves in a land that had been inhabited by various peoples during their absence. These "people of those countries" (often referring to the Samaritans and other local groups) viewed the Jewish return with suspicion and hostility, actively opposing their rebuilding efforts, as later detailed in [Ezra 4](/ezra/4 "Ezra 4 - Opposition to Rebuilding the Temple"). Culturally, the altar was the focal point of Israelite worship, the designated place for sacrifices that atoned for sin and expressed devotion to God. The daily morning and evening burnt offerings were a central component of the Mosaic Law, prescribed in passages like [Exodus 29:38-42](/exodus/29-38 "Exodus 29:38-42 - The Daily Burnt Offering") and [Numbers 28:3-8](/numbers/28-3 "Numbers 28:3-8 - Daily Offerings"). Their immediate restoration of these rituals underscored their commitment to the covenant and their national identity, which was deeply intertwined with their religious practices.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the book of Ezra and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Restoration of Worship** as the paramount priority for the returning exiles. The rebuilding of the altar and the resumption of daily sacrifices was not merely a ritualistic act but a foundational step in re-establishing their relationship with God and their spiritual identity as His covenant people. This spiritual renewal preceded and enabled the physical rebuilding of the Temple and the city. Secondly, the phrase "for fear was upon them because of the people of those countries" introduces the theme of **Faith Amidst Fear**. Despite genuine and understandable apprehension from surrounding adversaries, their fear did not paralyze them but rather spurred them to immediate obedience and reliance on God. This demonstrates a profound trust that God would protect them as they honored Him, echoing the sentiment found in [Psalm 56:3-4](/psalm/56-3 "Psalm 56:3-4 - Trusting God in Fear"). Finally, the meticulous act of setting the altar "upon his bases" and offering "burnt offerings morning and evening" underscores the theme of **Obedience to God's Ordinances**. Their commitment to the specific commands of the Torah regarding sacrificial worship was a testament to their desire to live in accordance with God's revealed will, recognizing that true national restoration began with spiritual fidelity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Altar (Hebrew, _mizbeakh'_):** This term refers to the sacrificial altar, the central place of worship in ancient Israel. Its immediate reconstruction signifies the people's priority to re-establish communion with God through prescribed offerings. The emphasis on setting it "upon his bases" suggests a precise, intentional effort to restore it according to its original, divinely ordained location and specifications.
* **Fear (Hebrew, _pakhad'_):** While often associated with dread or terror, here "fear" functions as a catalyst rather than a deterrent. The presence of hostile neighbors instilled a sense of vulnerability, prompting the exiles to seek divine protection and favor through immediate and obedient worship. This "fear" was not paralyzing but motivating, driving them to God as their refuge.
* **Burnt Offerings (Hebrew, _'olah'_):** Literally meaning "that which goes up," the _'olah_ was a whole burnt offering, completely consumed by fire on the altar, with the smoke ascending to God. This sacrifice symbolized complete dedication and atonement. The resumption of these offerings "morning and evening" indicates a return to the daily, continuous worship prescribed by the Mosaic Law, signifying an ongoing commitment to reconciliation and communion with the Lord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they set the altar upon his bases":** This phrase emphasizes the deliberate and precise nature of their action. "His bases" refers to the original foundations or site of the altar, indicating a desire for authentic restoration in accordance with divine command and tradition, rather than merely erecting an altar anywhere. It speaks to their commitment to proper, ordered worship.
* **"for fear [was] upon them because of the people of those countries":** This clause provides the immediate context and motivation for their urgency. The returning exiles were acutely aware of the hostile local populations who opposed their presence and rebuilding efforts. This external threat, rather than deterring them, seems to have intensified their resolve to seek divine protection and favor through immediate acts of worship and obedience.
* **"and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, [even] burnt offerings morning and evening":** This describes the core act of worship. The "burnt offerings" (Hebrew _'olah_) were a fundamental part of Israelite worship, symbolizing complete devotion and atonement. The specification "morning and evening" highlights their adherence to the daily sacrificial regimen prescribed in the Torah ([Exodus 29:38-42](/exodus/29-38 "Exodus 29:38-42 - The Daily Burnt Offering")), signifying a consistent and disciplined recommitment to God's covenant.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 3:3 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Juxtaposition** is prominent, setting the "fear... because of the people of those countries" against the immediate and resolute action of setting the altar and offering sacrifices. This contrast highlights the exiles' faith and obedience as transcending their very real apprehension. The **Symbolism** of the altar is central; it represents not just a physical structure but the very heart of Israel's covenant relationship with God, a place of atonement, communion, and dedication. Its restoration signifies the spiritual renewal of the people. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of "burnt offerings" ("offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, even burnt offerings") serves to emphasize the significance and centrality of this act of worship, underscoring its foundational importance to their spiritual and national identity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 3:3 stands as a powerful testament to the enduring priority of worship and obedience in the life of God's people, even in the face of daunting circumstances. The immediate rebuilding of the altar, before the Temple itself, underscores the theological truth that relationship with God, expressed through worship and atonement, is paramount and foundational to any other endeavor. Their fear, rather than leading to paralysis, propelled them to seek God's favor and protection through prescribed means, illustrating a deep trust in His sovereignty and provision. This act served as a public declaration of their renewed covenant with Yahweh, affirming His rightful place as their God and protector amidst a hostile world. It reminds us that true spiritual restoration begins not with grand structures, but with humble, obedient worship.

* [Exodus 29:38-42](/exodus/29-38 "Exodus 29:38-42 - The Daily Burnt Offering Prescribed")
* [Psalm 56:3-4](/psalm/56-3 "Psalm 56:3-4 - Trusting God in Times of Fear")
* [Nehemiah 4:16-18](/nehemiah/4-16 "Nehemiah 4:16-18 - Building with Sword and Trowel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The actions of the returning exiles in Ezra 3:3 offer profound lessons for believers today. Their immediate prioritization of worship, even amidst palpable fear and daunting external opposition, challenges us to examine our own priorities. Are we quick to re-establish our spiritual foundations when life feels uncertain or hostile? Do we allow fear or external pressures to dictate our devotion, or do they instead drive us more deeply into God's presence and prescribed ways? The exiles understood that their security and success depended not on their numbers or strength, but on God's favor, accessed through obedient worship. This calls us to consider what "altars" in our own lives—our daily disciplines of prayer, study, and communion with God—might need to be rebuilt or re-prioritized. Their example encourages us to act in faith, knowing that true security is found in God alone, and that our worship is a powerful declaration of our trust in Him, regardless of the circumstances.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to prioritize worship and obedience to God, even when facing fear or opposition?**
* **How does fear typically impact your spiritual life? Does it lead you closer to God or cause you to withdraw?**
* **What "altars" or foundational spiritual practices in your personal life or community might need to be rebuilt or re-emphasized today?**

### FAQ

**Why did they rebuild the altar before the Temple itself?**

Answer: The decision to rebuild the altar before the main Temple structure was a profound theological and practical priority. The altar was the place of sacrifice, essential for atonement and communion with God under the Mosaic Law. By re-establishing the daily burnt offerings, the exiles immediately restored the prescribed means of reconciliation with God and sought His favor and protection. This demonstrated their understanding that spiritual purity and right relationship with God were paramount, even more urgent than the physical edifice of the Temple. It was a declaration that worship and atonement were the true foundation of their national and spiritual identity, and thus, the most immediate act of obedience required.

**Who were "the people of those countries" that caused them fear?**

Answer: "The people of those countries" primarily refers to the various non-Jewish inhabitants who had settled in the land of Judah and Samaria during the Babylonian exile. This included groups like the Samaritans, who were a mixed population with their own religious practices, and other local peoples. These groups viewed the returning Jews with suspicion and hostility, often seeing them as a threat to their own influence and control. Their opposition to the rebuilding efforts is explicitly detailed later in [Ezra 4](/ezra/4 "Ezra 4 - Opposition to the Temple Rebuilding"), where they actively sought to hinder the Jews' work through various means, including intimidation and official complaints to the Persian authorities.

**What was the significance of offering burnt offerings "morning and evening"?**

Answer: The "morning and evening" burnt offerings were a direct adherence to the specific commands given in the Mosaic Law for daily public worship, as detailed in passages like [Exodus 29:38-42](/exodus/29-38 "Exodus 29:38-42 - The Daily Burnt Offering") and [Numbers 28:3-8](/numbers/28-3 "Numbers 28:3-8 - Daily Offerings"). These daily sacrifices symbolized a continuous act of atonement, dedication, and communion between God and His people. By meticulously resuming these offerings, the exiles demonstrated their commitment to God's covenant, their desire for ongoing forgiveness, and their consistent reliance on His presence and provision throughout each day. It was a foundational practice signifying their return to a life of ordered obedience and worship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 3:3, with its focus on the re-establishment of the altar and daily burnt offerings amidst fear, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The temporary, repeated sacrifices on the altar in Jerusalem, offered "morning and evening" for the atonement of sins, pointed forward to the once-for-all, perfect sacrifice of the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") on the cross. The fear that drove the exiles to seek God's protection through these offerings foreshadows humanity's universal need for deliverance from the fear of sin and death, a deliverance fully accomplished through Christ's atoning work. He is our ultimate altar, and His body, broken for us, is the perfect offering, making all subsequent sacrifices obsolete ([Hebrews 10:1-18](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1-18 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Through His finished work, believers are now called to offer spiritual sacrifices—lives of worship, obedience, and service—as a "living sacrifice" ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - A Living Sacrifice")) and to become a "holy priesthood" offering "spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" ([1_peter/2-5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Spiritual Sacrifices")). The fear of external enemies that spurred the exiles to worship is transformed in Christ into a reverent awe that compels us to trust in our Savior, who has overcome the world and all its threats.

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

Numbers 28:2

Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, My offering, [and] my bread for my sacrifices made by fire, [for] a sweet savour unto me, shall ye observe to offer unto me in their due season.

Numbers 28:8

And the other lamb shalt thou offer at even: as the meat offering of the morning, and as the drink offering thereof, thou shalt offer [it], a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.

Ezra 4:4

Then the people of the land weakened the hands of the people of Judah, and troubled them in building,

Exodus 29:38

¶ Now this [is that] which thou shalt offer upon the altar; two lambs of the first year day by day continually.

Exodus 29:42

[This shall be] a continual burnt offering throughout your generations [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD: where I will meet you, to speak there unto thee.

2 Chronicles 4:1

¶ Moreover he made an altar of brass, twenty cubits the length thereof, and twenty cubits the breadth thereof, and ten cubits the height thereof.

Ezra 4:11

This [is] the copy of the letter that they sent unto him, [even] unto Artaxerxes the king; Thy servants the men on this side the river, and at such a time.