Ezra 3:5

KJV

And afterward [offered] the continual burnt offering, both of the new moons, and of all the set feasts of the LORD that were consecrated, and of every one that willingly offered a freewill offering unto the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And afterward {H310} offered the continual {H8548} burnt offering {H5930}, both of the new moons {H2320}, and of all the set feasts {H4150} of the LORD {H3068} that were consecrated {H6942}, and of every one that willingly offered {H5068} a freewill offering {H5071} unto the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and afterwards the regular burnt offering, the offerings for Rosh-Hodesh and those for all the designated times set apart for ADONAI, as well as those of everyone who volunteered a voluntary offering to ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

After that, they presented the regular burnt offerings and those for New Moons and for all the appointed sacred feasts of the LORD, as well as all the freewill offerings brought to the LORD.

American Standard Version

and afterward the continual burnt-offering, and the offerings of the new moons, and of all the set feasts of Jehovah that were consecrated, and of every one that willingly offered a freewill-offering unto Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Upon their return from Babylonian exile, the Jewish community in Jerusalem, led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua, immediately prioritized the re-establishment of divine worship. Ezra 3:5 details their comprehensive restoration of the Mosaic sacrificial system, including the daily burnt offerings, the monthly sacrifices for new moons, all the annual set feasts ordained by the Lord, and the voluntary contributions of freewill offerings. This meticulous adherence to God's commands underscored their profound covenant commitment, their renewed identity as a consecrated people, and their foundational act of rebuilding communal life centered entirely on Yahweh's prescribed worship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 3:5 is situated within the crucial narrative of the returned exiles' initial efforts to re-establish their spiritual and communal life in Jerusalem. Following Cyrus's decree, the first wave of returnees, under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua, gathered in Jerusalem. The preceding verses, specifically [Ezra 3:1-2](/ezra/3-1-2 "Ezra 3:1-2 - Rebuilding the Altar"), describe the people assembling "as one man" and their courageous act of rebuilding the altar of God, despite the fear of surrounding peoples. This foundational step enabled them to immediately resume the daily burnt offerings. Verse 5 then expands upon this initial act, detailing the full scope of offerings reinstated, indicating a comprehensive and systematic return to the prescribed worship. This meticulous re-establishment of the sacrificial system sets the stage for the subsequent laying of the temple foundation in [Ezra 3:8-9](/ezra/3-8-9 "Ezra 3:8-9 - Laying the Temple Foundation"), highlighting that spiritual restoration preceded physical reconstruction. The detailed enumeration of offerings emphasizes the exiles' dedication to divine law as the bedrock of their restored community.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in Ezra 3:5 transpired shortly after the Jewish people's return from seventy years of Babylonian exile (c. 538 BC), a period during which the Temple in Jerusalem lay in ruins and formal temple worship had entirely ceased. For ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was the divinely ordained heart of their covenant relationship with Yahweh, meticulously detailed in the Torah (e.g., [Leviticus 1-7](/leviticus/1-7 "Leviticus 1-7 - Laws of Offerings")). Upon returning to a desolate Jerusalem, the immediate priority was not the grand temple structure itself, but the re-establishment of the altar and the sacrificial system. This was a profound act of cultural and religious reorientation, signaling a decisive break from the pagan influences of Babylon and a return to their ancestral faith and covenant obligations. The "new moons" and "set feasts" were not merely religious holidays; they were crucial calendrical markers and communal gatherings that reinforced national identity, theological understanding, and the rhythm of life centered on God's appointed times. Resuming these practices demonstrated a deep commitment to their heritage and a re-anchoring in their unique identity as God's chosen people.

* **Key Themes:** Ezra 3:5 powerfully articulates several key themes central to the book of Ezra and the post-exilic period. Foremost is the **Restoration of Worship**, emphasizing that the re-establishment of the sacrificial system was not merely a ritualistic act but a spiritual and communal imperative, marking a return to God's prescribed order after decades of disruption. This restoration underscores the theme of **Obedience to God's Law**, as the exiles meticulously followed the divine ordinances concerning the "continual burnt offering," "new moons," and "set feasts," demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the Mosaic covenant (e.g., the detailed instructions in [Numbers 28-29](/numbers/28-29 "Numbers 28-29 - Prescribed Offerings")). Furthermore, the inclusion of "freewill offerings" introduces the profound theme of **Heartfelt Devotion and Willingness**. This highlights that beyond mere obligation, the people offered out of genuine love and gratitude, reflecting a spiritual revival and a desire to give generously to the Lord, a sentiment deeply rooted in Israel's history of giving for sacred purposes (e.g., [Exodus 35:29](/exodus/35-29 "Exodus 35:29 - Freewill Offerings for the Tabernacle")). These themes collectively portray a community rebuilding its identity and future upon a renewed foundation of faith, obedience, and sincere devotion.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Continual (Hebrew, _tâmîyd'_):** From an unused root meaning "to stretch," this word signifies continuance, constancy, or perpetuity. In the context of the "continual burnt offering" (`‘ôlâh tâmîyd`), it emphasizes the unbroken, perpetual nature of the daily morning and evening sacrifices (e.g., [Numbers 28:3](/numbers/28-3 "Numbers 28:3 - The Daily Burnt Offering")). Its immediate re-establishment by the exiles underscores their commitment to the foundational, uninterrupted rhythm of worship as a constant expression of Israel's covenant relationship with God and their ongoing need for atonement and communion.
* **Set Feasts (Hebrew, _môwʻêd'_):** This term, derived from the root `ya‘ad` (to appoint, to meet), properly refers to an "appointed time" or "season," specifically a festival or solemn assembly. These were not merely celebrations but divinely ordained convocations, sacred assemblies at specific times of the year (e.g., Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles, as detailed in [Leviticus 23](/leviticus/23 "Leviticus 23 - The Feasts of the Lord")). The term highlights God's initiative in setting these times and Israel's obligation to meet with Him in worship according to His calendar. Their restoration signified a return to God's established order for communal life and worship, reinforcing national identity and covenant fidelity.
* **Freewill Offering (Hebrew, _nᵉdâbâh'_):** From the root `nâdab` (to impel, to volunteer), this word denotes spontaneity or a spontaneous/abundant gift. It refers to a voluntary offering, given out of spontaneous generosity and devotion, not as a mandatory requirement (e.g., [Leviticus 7:16](/leviticus/7-16 "Leviticus 7:16 - Freewill Offerings")). Unlike the prescribed daily or feast offerings, the `nədâbâh` came from the heart of the individual, reflecting a personal, uncompelled desire to honor God. Its inclusion in Ezra 3:5 demonstrates that the exiles' worship was not merely rote obedience but also flowed from genuine spiritual revival and personal commitment, indicating a vibrant faith beyond mere ritual.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And afterward [offered] the continual burnt offering,"**: This clause signifies the immediate and foundational re-establishment of the daily sacrifices. The "continual burnt offering" (Hebrew: `‘ôlâh tāmîd`) was offered every morning and evening, symbolizing perpetual atonement, communion, and dedication. Its prompt resumption by the returned exiles marked the restoration of the most basic and constant act of worship, signifying their commitment to an ongoing relationship with God after decades of disruption.
* **"both of the new moons,"**: Following the daily offerings, the exiles also reinstated the monthly sacrifices prescribed for the beginning of each new lunar month (e.g., [Numbers 28:11-15](/numbers/28-11-15 "Numbers 28:11-15 - Offerings for the New Moons")). These offerings marked the sacred calendar and involved specific burnt offerings and sin offerings, emphasizing the monthly renewal of the community's dedication and need for purification before the Lord, aligning their time with His divine rhythms.
* **"and of all the set feasts of the LORD that were consecrated,"**: This comprehensive clause indicates the full restoration of the annual pilgrimage festivals and other appointed times (Hebrew: `mô‘ădîm`) that God had consecrated, meaning set apart as holy. These included major celebrations like Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles (as detailed in [Leviticus 23](/leviticus/23 "Leviticus 23 - The Feasts of the Lord")), which were vital for national identity, communal worship, and remembering God's redemptive acts throughout their history. Their re-establishment underscored a complete return to God's divinely ordered calendar and covenant life.
* **"and of every one that willingly offered a freewill offering unto the LORD."**: This final phrase highlights the personal and voluntary dimension of the restored worship. Beyond the mandatory communal offerings, individuals were moved by their own devotion to bring `nədâbâh` (freewill offerings). This demonstrates that the spiritual revival extended beyond mere ritual adherence to include heartfelt, spontaneous generosity and commitment, signifying a deep personal engagement with God's covenant and a desire to give out of love and gratitude, not compulsion.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 3:5 employs several literary devices to underscore the thoroughness and spiritual significance of the exiles' actions. The most prominent is **Enumeration**, as the verse meticulously lists the various categories of offerings: the "continual burnt offering," "new moons," "set feasts," and "freewill offerings." This detailed listing serves to emphasize the comprehensive nature of the restoration of worship, demonstrating that no aspect of the divinely prescribed sacrificial system was overlooked. Furthermore, there is a clear sense of **Emphasis** through cumulative detail, moving from the daily, foundational offering to the monthly, then the annual, and finally to the individual, voluntary contributions. This progression builds a rich picture of a community fully engaged in worship at all levels—daily, calendrical, and personal. The phrase "every one that willingly offered" also subtly uses **Inclusivity**, highlighting that this was not merely an act of the leaders but a widespread spiritual movement involving the entire community, indicating a collective and heartfelt commitment to God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 3:5 is a profound theological statement on the centrality of worship and obedience in the life of God's covenant people. The immediate re-establishment of the sacrificial system upon return from exile signifies that right relationship with God, expressed through prescribed worship, was paramount to their identity and future. It underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant and the people's renewed commitment to its stipulations, even after severe discipline. This act of worship was not merely ritualistic but a declaration of faith, a re-anchoring of their communal life in God's divine order, and an acknowledgment of their dependence on His provision and atonement. The inclusion of freewill offerings further reveals a spiritual revival where obedience was coupled with heartfelt devotion, demonstrating that true worship encompasses both prescribed duties and spontaneous expressions of love and gratitude.

* [Numbers 28:1-31](/numbers/28-1-31 "Laws for Daily, Sabbath, and Monthly Offerings")
* [Leviticus 23:1-44](/leviticus/23-1-44 "The Feasts of the Lord")
* [Deuteronomy 12:5-7](/deuteronomy/12-5-7 "Choosing a Place for Worship")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 3:5 presents a powerful model for believers today, emphasizing the foundational importance of prioritizing corporate and personal worship in the journey of faith. Just as the exiles, facing daunting challenges and fear, first rebuilt the altar and re-established the sacrificial system before embarking on the grand temple structure, we are called to prioritize our spiritual disciplines and our relationship with God above all else. This verse reminds us that consistent, intentional worship—whether through daily devotion, participation in corporate gatherings, or observance of spiritual rhythms—is essential for nurturing our covenant relationship with God and for building a life that truly honors Him. Furthermore, the inclusion of "freewill offerings" challenges us to move beyond mere obligation, encouraging a spirit of generosity, willing service, and heartfelt devotion that flows from love and gratitude, not just duty. Our worship should be both ordered and spontaneous, reflecting both obedience to God's commands and the overflow of a grateful heart.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "altar" in your life needs to be rebuilt or prioritized for consistent worship before other "temple" projects or personal aspirations can truly flourish?**
* **How can you cultivate a spirit of "freewill offering" in your daily walk, moving beyond religious obligation to heartfelt devotion and generosity in your service to God and others?**
* **In what ways do you integrate both prescribed spiritual disciplines (like regular Bible reading, prayer, or church attendance) and spontaneous, joyful expressions of worship into your life?**

### FAQ

**Why was it so important for the exiles to re-establish the sacrificial system immediately?**

Answer: The re-establishment of the sacrificial system was critically important for several reasons. First, it was the divinely ordained means of atonement and communion with God under the Mosaic Covenant. Without it, the people could not properly address their sin or draw near to God. Second, it was a tangible act of obedience to God's commands, signaling their renewed commitment to the covenant after decades of exile, which was a direct consequence of their disobedience. Third, it served as a powerful symbol of their restored identity as God's chosen people and a foundational step in rebuilding their communal and spiritual life in Jerusalem. It was a declaration that despite their past failures and current challenges, their future would be centered on Yahweh and His prescribed worship, as seen in their immediate actions described in [Ezra 3:2-3](/ezra/3-2-3 "Ezra 3:2-3 - Rebuilding the Altar and Daily Offerings").

**What is the difference between "set feasts" and "freewill offerings"?**

Answer: The "set feasts" (Hebrew: `mô‘ădîm`) were mandatory, divinely appointed annual festivals that all Israel was commanded to observe, such as Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles (e.g., [Leviticus 23](/leviticus/23 "Leviticus 23 - The Feasts of the Lord")). They were part of the communal covenant obligations and marked specific times in God's redemptive calendar. "Freewill offerings" (Hebrew: `nədâbâh`), on the other hand, were voluntary gifts given by individuals out of spontaneous generosity, devotion, or gratitude (e.g., [Leviticus 7:16](/leviticus/7-16 "Leviticus 7:16 - Freewill Offerings")). They were not required by law but were an expression of personal love and commitment to the Lord, demonstrating a heart that desired to give beyond what was strictly commanded. Both were vital components of a holistic worship life, showcasing both obedience and heartfelt devotion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 3:5, with its meticulous detailing of the re-established sacrificial system, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The "continual burnt offering" pointed to the ongoing need for atonement, a need fully met by Christ's singular, once-for-all sacrifice on the cross, which perfected for all time those who are being sanctified (see [Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10-14 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). The "new moons" and "set feasts" were shadows of things to come, with the substance and reality found in Christ (see [Colossians 2:16-17](/colossians/2-16-17 "Colossians 2:16-17 - Christ is the Substance")). For instance, Passover finds its glorious fulfillment in Christ, our true Passover Lamb, who was sacrificed for us (see [1 Corinthians 5:7](/1_corinthians/5-7 "1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ Our Passover Lamb")), and Pentecost in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, ushering in the new covenant. Jesus is the true and living Temple (see [John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")), making physical altars and animal sacrifices obsolete. Furthermore, the "freewill offering" of the exiles, given out of willing hearts, beautifully prefigures Christ's own willing offering of Himself—not as a compelled duty, but out of infinite love for the Father and for humanity (see [John 10:17-18](/john/10-17-18 "John 10:17-18 - Jesus Lays Down His Life Willingly")). In Christ, the entire sacrificial system finds its perfect and eternal fulfillment, providing not just temporary covering for sin but complete redemption and eternal access to God through His shed blood (see [Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")).

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 29:39

These [things] ye shall do unto the LORD in your set feasts, beside your vows, and your freewill offerings, for your burnt offerings, and for your meat offerings, and for your drink offerings, and for your peace offerings.

Numbers 29:2

And ye shall offer a burnt offering for a sweet savour unto the LORD; one young bullock, one ram, [and] seven lambs of the first year without blemish:

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.

Leviticus 1:3

¶ If his offering [be] a burnt sacrifice of the herd, let him offer a male without blemish: he shall offer it of his own voluntary will at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD.

Numbers 28:27

But ye shall offer the burnt offering for a sweet savour unto the LORD; two young bullocks, one ram, seven lambs of the first year;

Numbers 28:3

And thou shalt say unto them, This [is] the offering made by fire which ye shall offer unto the LORD; two lambs of the first year without spot day by day, [for] a continual burnt offering.