Ezra 3:9

Then stood Jeshua [with] his sons and his brethren, Kadmiel and his sons, the sons of Judah, together, to set forward the workmen in the house of God: the sons of Henadad, [with] their sons and their brethren the Levites.

Then stood {H5975} Jeshua {H3442} with his sons {H1121} and his brethren {H251}, Kadmiel {H6934} and his sons {H1121}, the sons {H1121} of Judah {H3063}, together {H259}, to set forward {H5329} the workmen {H6213}{H4399} in the house {H1004} of God {H430}: the sons {H1121} of Henadad {H2582}, with their sons {H1121} and their brethren {H251} the Levites {H3881}.

Yeshua and his sons and brothers, Kadmi'el and his sons, and Y'hudah's sons together directed the workers in the house of God; also the sons of Henadad, with their sons and their kinsmen the L'vi'im.

So Jeshua and his sons and brothers, Kadmiel and his sons (descendants of Yehudah), and the sons of Henadad and their sons and brothers—all Levites—joined together to supervise those working on the house of God.

Then stood Jeshua with his sons and his brethren, Kadmiel and his sons, the sons of Judah, together, to have the oversight of the workmen in the house of God: the sons of Henadad, with their sons and their brethren the Levites.

Commentary

Ezra 3:9 describes the organized effort of various leaders and groups among the returned Jewish exiles to supervise the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, following the laying of its foundation.

Context

This verse is situated in the early days of the post-exilic return to Judah, led by Governor Zerubbabel and High Priest Jeshua. After decades in Babylonian captivity, the Jewish people were granted permission by King Cyrus to return and rebuild their sanctuary. The immediate preceding verses detail the joyous, yet also sorrowful, event of laying the foundation of the "house of God". Verse 9 specifically highlights the crucial role of leadership and supervision in ensuring the massive reconstruction project moved forward efficiently.

Key Themes

  • Organized Leadership: The passage emphasizes the presence of key figures like Jeshua (the high priest), Kadmiel, and the sons of Henadad, along with their respective families and brethren. These individuals, particularly the Levites, were appointed to "set forward the workmen," indicating a structured and managed approach to the rebuilding process.
  • Unity in Purpose: Different families and groups, including priests and Levites, stood "together" to accomplish the sacred task. This unity was essential for the daunting work of restoring the Temple, signifying a collective commitment to God's dwelling place.
  • Divine Priority: The focus on rebuilding the "house of God" underscores the exiles' primary spiritual goal. Despite facing challenges and opposition, their dedication to re-establishing proper worship was paramount, reflecting their renewed covenant with the Lord.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "to set forward the workmen" comes from the Hebrew le-natzeaḥ (לְנַצֵּחַ), which means "to oversee," "to supervise," or "to preside over." This term implies active management, encouragement, and ensuring that the work progresses efficiently and according to plan. It is often used in the context of leading or directing a project, reinforcing the idea of careful organization.

Practical Application

Ezra 3:9 offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Importance of Leadership: Effective leadership and supervision are vital for any significant endeavor, especially in spiritual work. God calls individuals to guide and organize efforts for His kingdom.
  • Value of Unity: When various parts of the body of Christ work "together" with a common purpose, great things can be accomplished. Differences can be overcome by a shared commitment to God's will.
  • Commitment to God's Work: Just as the exiles prioritized rebuilding the physical temple, believers are called to participate actively in building God's spiritual kingdom, whether through service, evangelism, or supporting the church. This verse reminds us that every role in God's work, from leadership to supporting roles, is valuable and necessary.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ezra 2:40

    The Levites: the children of Jeshua and Kadmiel, of the children of Hodaviah, seventy and four.

  • Nehemiah 7:43

    The Levites: the children of Jeshua, of Kadmiel, [and] of the children of Hodevah, seventy and four.

  • Ezra 3:8

    ¶ Now in the second year of their coming unto the house of God at Jerusalem, in the second month, began Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and the remnant of their brethren the priests and the Levites, and all they that were come out of the captivity unto Jerusalem; and appointed the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, to set forward the work of the house of the LORD.
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