Ezra 3:7

KJV

They gave money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre, to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to the sea of Joppa, according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia.

KJV (with Strong's)

They gave {H5414} money {H3701} also unto the masons {H2672}, and to the carpenters {H2796}; and meat {H3978}, and drink {H4960}, and oil {H8081}, unto them of Zidon {H6722}, and to them of Tyre {H6876}, to bring {H935} cedar {H730} trees {H6086} from Lebanon {H3844} to the sea {H3220} of Joppa {H3305}, according to the grant {H7558} that they had of Cyrus {H3566} king {H4428} of Persia {H6539}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They also gave money for the stone-workers and carpenters, as well as food, drink and olive oil for the people of Tzidon and Tzor bringing cedar logs from the L'vanon to the sea and on to Yafo, in accordance with the authorization granted by Koresh king of Persia.

Berean Standard Bible

They gave money to the masons and carpenters, and food and drink and oil to the people of Sidon and Tyre to bring cedar logs from Lebanon to Joppa by sea, as authorized by Cyrus king of Persia.

American Standard Version

They gave money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and food, and drink, and oil, unto them of Sidon, and to them of Tyre, to bring cedar-trees from Lebanon to the sea, unto Joppa, according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 3:7 meticulously details the practical and logistical efforts undertaken by the returning Jewish exiles to secure the necessary materials and skilled labor for the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This verse underscores the financial provisions made for masons and carpenters, and the vital exchange of provisions (meat, drink, oil) with the Phoenician cities of Zidon and Tyre to acquire precious cedar timber from Lebanon, transported by sea to Joppa, all operating under the official sanction and provision of King Cyrus of Persia.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the early narrative of Ezra, immediately following the re-establishment of the altar and the resumption of sacrifices by the returning exiles under Zerubbabel and Jeshua. Having addressed the foundational spiritual aspect of worship through the restoration of the altar and daily sacrifices (as seen in [Ezra 3:2-3](/ezra/3-2-3 "Ezra 3:2-3 - Restoration of the Altar and Sacrifices")), Ezra 3:7 marks a crucial transition to the practical, physical construction of the Temple structure itself. It sets the stage for the solemn and joyous laying of the Temple's foundation described later in the chapter ([Ezra 3:8-13](/ezra/3-8-13 "Ezra 3:8-13 - Laying the Temple Foundation")), demonstrating a logical and necessary progression from spiritual dedication to tangible action in the restoration process. The entire endeavor is framed by the earlier decree of Cyrus, King of Persia, which not only permitted the exiles' return but also explicitly mandated and supported the Temple's reconstruction ([Ezra 1:1-4](/ezra/1-1-4 "Ezra 1:1-4 - Cyrus's Decree for Temple Rebuilding")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The mention of "them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre" bringing cedar from Lebanon immediately evokes a significant historical and cultural precedent, echoing the centuries-old alliance between Israel and Phoenicia. These Phoenician city-states were renowned for their maritime expertise and their unparalleled access to the majestic cedar forests of Lebanon. This arrangement directly mirrors the alliance forged earlier between King Solomon of Israel and King Hiram of Tyre for the construction of the First Temple ([1 Kings 5:6](/1-kings/5-6 "1 Kings 5:6 - Solomon's Alliance with Hiram of Tyre")). The payment in "money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters; and meat, and drink, and oil" highlights a comprehensive system of compensation, reflecting the value placed on both skilled labor and essential provisions in ancient trade agreements. The transportation of timber by sea to "the sea of Joppa" (modern-day Jaffa) was the most efficient and practical method for moving such heavy materials, as Joppa served as the primary port for Jerusalem, facilitating the subsequent difficult inland transport. Crucially, the phrase "according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia" underscores that this massive undertaking was not merely a local initiative but was officially sanctioned, protected, and materially supported by the dominant world power of the time, ensuring its feasibility and legitimacy.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the book of Ezra and the broader post-exilic period. Firstly, it highlights **Cooperation and Resourcefulness**, as the returning community actively engages in strategic procurement, securing both specialized labor (masons, carpenters) and vital materials (cedar) through careful planning and payment. This demonstrates their proactive commitment to the divine mandate. Secondly, it emphasizes **Divine Provision through Human Means**, showcasing God's sovereign hand at work. The ability to acquire valuable Lebanese cedar and the necessary funds was fundamentally enabled by the royal grant from Cyrus ([Ezra 1:4](/ezra/1-4 "Ezra 1:4 - The Royal Grant for the Temple")), underscoring how God can utilize secular authorities and human generosity to accomplish His divine purposes. Thirdly, the immediate focus on rebuilding the Temple after the return signifies the community's profound **Priority of God's House** and their unwavering commitment to restoring proper worship and God's dwelling place among His people. This practical step was a tangible, costly, and demanding expression of their spiritual devotion and theological conviction.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gave (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** This primitive root is highly versatile, meaning "to give," but also encompassing "to put," "to make," "to appoint," or "to grant." In Ezra 3:7, its active use ("They gave") emphasizes the intentional and deliberate action of the returning exiles. It highlights their agency and commitment in providing the necessary resources—money, food, drink, and oil—to secure the skilled labor and materials required for the Temple's reconstruction. This word underscores the practical, tangible commitment of the community to the rebuilding effort.
* **Cedar Trees (Hebrew, _ʼerez'_):** Derived from a root suggesting firmness or tenacity, `ʼerez` refers specifically to the cedar tree, particularly the renowned cedar of Lebanon. This wood was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its strength, durability, aromatic quality, and resistance to decay, making it an ideal building material, especially for sacred structures. Its use in both the First Temple (Solomon's Temple) and now the Second Temple signifies continuity, majesty, and the enduring nature of God's dwelling place. Acquiring this specific timber, even from a foreign source and at considerable expense, underscores the exiles' commitment to building a Temple worthy of God, reflecting a standard of excellence established in earlier generations.
* **Grant (Hebrew, _rishyôwn'_):** This word signifies a permit, authorization, or official allowance, stemming from a root meaning "to have leave." Its inclusion here is crucial, as it refers to the authoritative pronouncement and accompanying provisions from Cyrus, King of Persia. This "grant" was the legal and material foundation upon which the exiles could proceed with confidence and protection. It emphasizes that the entire rebuilding effort was not a clandestine or merely local endeavor, but one that possessed full imperial sanction and, implicitly, divine authorization working through the reigning world power.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They gave money also unto the masons, and to the carpenters;":** This clause highlights the financial investment and recognition of skilled labor. The returning exiles understood that the monumental task of rebuilding required professional expertise in both stone (masons) and wood (carpenters), and they were prepared to compensate these craftsmen for their specialized work. This demonstrates a practical, organized, and financially committed approach to the project, acknowledging the value of skilled human effort.
* **"and meat, and drink, and oil, unto them of Zidon, and to them of Tyre,":** Beyond monetary payment, this specifies additional provisions given to the Phoenician suppliers. This form of compensation was common in ancient trade, especially for large-scale projects involving foreign entities. It could serve as part of a comprehensive trade agreement, a means of covering the suppliers' sustenance during their work or transport, or a demonstration of goodwill, ensuring a continued and reliable supply of materials from these vital trading partners. It showcases a holistic approach to securing resources.
* **"to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to the sea of Joppa,":** This outlines the specific material being acquired and its logistical journey. Lebanon was the renowned source of the finest cedar, and "the sea of Joppa" (modern Jaffa) was the closest and most practical port for transporting heavy timber by sea to the vicinity of Jerusalem. This detail reveals the significant planning, coordination, and cross-regional cooperation required for the long-distance procurement and delivery of essential building supplies.
* **"according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia.":** This concluding phrase serves as the overarching authorization and justification for the entire operation. It reiterates that the exiles' actions were not arbitrary but were conducted under the explicit permission, protection, and likely material support stipulated by the powerful Persian emperor. This divine orchestration, working through a pagan ruler, underscores God's sovereignty in fulfilling His promises and bringing about the restoration of His people and His house.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 3:7 primarily employs **Allusion** and **Practical Realism**. The meticulous detail regarding the acquisition of cedar from Lebanon via Tyre and Sidon, transported to Joppa, is a clear **allusion** to the construction of Solomon's First Temple, as extensively detailed in [1 Kings 5](/1-kings/5 "1 Kings 5 - Solomon's Alliance with Hiram of Tyre") and [2 Chronicles 2](/2-chronicles/2 "2 Chronicles 2 - Solomon's Request for Cedar"). This literary device serves to establish continuity with Israel's past glory and to validate the present rebuilding effort as a legitimate and divinely sanctioned continuation of God's work. It reminds the reader that the post-exilic community is following a hallowed precedent, connecting their present struggle with a foundational moment in Israel's history. Furthermore, the verse is characterized by **Practical Realism**, providing meticulous details about the financial transactions, the specific provisions (meat, drink, oil), the types of laborers (masons, carpenters), the source of materials (Lebanon), and the transportation route (to Joppa). This focus on the mundane but essential logistics grounds the spiritual endeavor in tangible, human effort, emphasizing that faith-driven projects require careful planning, resourcefulness, and diligent execution, not just spiritual fervor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 3:7 beautifully illustrates the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility in the work of God. While the overarching decree of Cyrus was a clear demonstration of God's providential hand orchestrating events for His people's return and the Temple's rebuilding, the verse focuses on the diligent human effort required. The exiles were not passive recipients; they actively "gave money," "meat, drink, and oil," and meticulously planned the logistics of acquiring and transporting materials. This highlights that God's grand purposes are often accomplished through the faithful, practical, and sometimes laborious actions of His people, even when those actions involve interaction with secular authorities and foreign nations. It underscores a theology of active participation, where faith is expressed through diligent work and wise stewardship of resources, all undergirded by God's enabling grace.

* [1 Kings 5:6](/1-kings/5-6 "Solomon's agreement with Hiram for cedar")
* [Haggai 1:8](/haggai/1-8 "Go up to the mountains and bring wood")
* [Isaiah 44:28](/isaiah/44-28 "Cyrus, My shepherd")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 3:7 offers profound lessons for believers today, reminding us that spiritual endeavors are often inextricably linked with practical realities. The exiles' commitment to rebuilding God's house involved not just prayer and worship, but also strategic planning, financial investment, and diligent labor. This challenges us to consider how we combine our spiritual zeal with practical wisdom in serving God. Are we willing to invest our time, talents, and resources—our "money, meat, drink, and oil"—into the work of the Kingdom, understanding that God often works through human hands and means? This verse also encourages us to recognize God's provision in unexpected places, even through secular systems or individuals, just as He used Cyrus. It calls us to be resourceful, collaborative, and persistent in pursuing God's purposes, knowing that every practical step taken in faith contributes to the larger divine plan of building His spiritual house, whether that be a local church, a ministry, or the spread of the gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge us to combine spiritual zeal with practical planning and resourcefulness in our service to God today?**
* **In what ways might God be providing resources or opening doors through unexpected channels (like "Cyrus's grant") for His work in our lives or communities?**
* **What "cedar trees" (valuable skills, time, financial resources, connections) are we called to contribute to the building up of God's kingdom and the Church?**

### FAQ

**Why were "meat, drink, and oil" given in addition to money?**

Answer: This practice reflects the common economic and logistical realities of large-scale ancient construction projects, especially when dealing with foreign suppliers and laborers. While money was given to the masons and carpenters, the "meat, drink, and oil" provided to the people of Zidon and Tyre likely served multiple purposes. It could have been part of a negotiated trade agreement, a form of non-monetary compensation for the valuable cedar and its transport, or provisions to sustain the Phoenician workers and sailors during their journey and labor. Such provisions were essential for long-distance trade and labor, covering living expenses and ensuring the well-being of those delivering the goods. This comprehensive compensation package demonstrates the exiles' thoroughness and commitment to fulfilling their obligations to secure the necessary materials, ensuring the smooth flow of the rebuilding project.

**What was the significance of "the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia"?**

Answer: The "grant" from Cyrus was of paramount significance, providing the essential legal, political, and often material foundation for the entire rebuilding project. Firstly, it legitimized the exiles' return to Judah and their efforts to reconstruct the Temple in the eyes of the Persian Empire, which was the dominant world power. This official sanction protected them from local opposition and ensured imperial support. Secondly, the grant often included financial provisions or permission to draw resources from the royal treasury, as seen in later decrees (e.g., [Ezra 6:8](/ezra/6-8 "Darius's Decree for Temple Support")). This royal backing was crucial for a community that had returned with limited resources. Theologically, this "grant" highlights God's sovereign hand working through a pagan king to fulfill His prophetic word (e.g., [Isaiah 44:28](/isaiah/44-28 "Isaiah 44:28 - Cyrus, My shepherd") prophesied Cyrus's role in rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple), demonstrating that God can use any means, even secular authority, to accomplish His divine purposes for His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 3:7, with its focus on the meticulous provision of resources and labor for the physical Temple, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate provision and construction of God's spiritual Temple in Christ. The cedar from Lebanon, brought by foreign hands and paid for with precious resources, points to the immeasurable cost and diverse means by which the true dwelling place of God would be built. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," speaking of the temple of His body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus speaks of His body as the Temple")). He is the ultimate "material," the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone")), upon whom the entire spiritual edifice of the Church is built. The "grant of Cyrus" that enabled the physical Temple's construction finds its ultimate fulfillment in God's gracious "grant" of salvation through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection, which provides all the spiritual resources necessary to build His new covenant community. Believers, once alienated, are now "living stones... being built up as a spiritual house" ([1_peter/2-5](/1-peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living stones, a spiritual house")) through the power of the Holy Spirit, becoming a dwelling place for God ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21-22 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - Built into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit")). Thus, the practical efforts of Ezra's day anticipate the infinitely greater work of Christ in establishing a new and eternal Temple, not made with human hands, but by divine grace, a dwelling place for God's Spirit among His redeemed people.

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

1 Kings 5:6

Now therefore command thou that they hew me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall be with thy servants: and unto thee will I give hire for thy servants according to all that thou shalt appoint: for thou knowest that [there is] not among us any that can skill to hew timber like unto the Sidonians.

Acts 9:36

¶ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

Acts 12:20

¶ And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's [country].

Jonah 1:3

But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.

2 Chronicles 24:12

And the king and Jehoiada gave it to such as did the work of the service of the house of the LORD, and hired masons and carpenters to repair the house of the LORD, and also such as wrought iron and brass to mend the house of the LORD.

2 Chronicles 24:13

So the workmen wrought, and the work was perfected by them, and they set the house of God in his state, and strengthened it.

Acts 10:5

And now send men to Joppa, and call for [one] Simon, whose surname is Peter: