Ezra 3:7

Ezra 3:7 details the practical steps taken by the returning Jewish exiles to gather materials and labor for the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This verse highlights the financial and logistical preparations made, specifically for acquiring valuable cedar timber from Lebanon, reminiscent of the First Temple's construction.

Context

This verse is situated early in the book of Ezra, following the return of the first wave of Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity to Judah. Under the leadership of Zerubbabel (the governor) and Jeshua (the high priest), the community had first re-established the altar and resumed sacrifices (Ezra 3:2-3). With the foundational spiritual elements in place, Ezra 3:7 describes the move towards the physical construction of the temple structure itself. Their efforts were directly supported by the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia, which not only allowed their return but also provided resources for the temple's restoration.

Key Themes

• Cooperation and Resourcefulness: The verse illustrates the community's active engagement in the rebuilding project. They secured both skilled labor (masons, carpenters) and essential materials (cedar) through strategic procurement and payment.
• Divine Provision through Human Means: The ability to acquire valuable materials like Lebanese cedar, and the necessary funds, was fundamentally enabled by the grant from Cyrus. This underscores God's sovereignty, working through secular authorities and human generosity to accomplish His purposes.
• Priority of God's House: The immediate focus on rebuilding the temple after the return demonstrates the exiles' deep commitment to restoring proper worship and God's dwelling place among them.

Historical/Cultural Insights

• Phoenician Expertise and Resources: The mention of "them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre" bringing cedar from Lebanon points to a well-established historical precedent. Phoenician cities like Tyre and Sidon were renowned for their maritime skills and access to the rich cedar forests of Lebanon. This arrangement directly mirrors the agreement King Solomon made with Hiram of Tyre for the construction of the First Temple.
• Trade and Logistics: The payment in "money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil" indicates a comprehensive system of compensation for labor and goods. The timber was transported by sea to "the sea of Joppa," modern-day Jaffa, which served as the primary port for Jerusalem, facilitating the difficult task of bringing heavy materials inland.
• Persian Sanction: The phrase "according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia" is crucial. It highlights that the entire undertaking was not merely a local initiative but was officially sanctioned and materially supported by the dominant world power of the time, ensuring its feasibility and protection.

Practical Application

Ezra 3:7 offers enduring lessons for believers today:

• Strategic Planning in Ministry: Just as the exiles meticulously planned for the temple's construction, undertaking God's work often requires thoughtful planning, resource gathering, and collaboration. Faith is not passive; it involves active participation and wise stewardship.
• God's Use of Diverse Means: This verse reminds us that God can use anyone—even non-believing rulers like Cyrus—and any resource to advance His kingdom. We should be open to unexpected avenues of provision and recognize God's hand in seemingly secular affairs.
• Investing in God's Work: The exiles "gave money also" and other provisions, demonstrating a willingness to sacrifice for the restoration of God's house. It encourages believers to contribute their time, talents, and resources to support spiritual endeavors and the building up of God's people. Their unified effort paved the way for the laying of the temple's foundation.