Ezra 5:14

KJV

And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that [was] in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto [one], whose name [was] Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor;

KJV (with Strong's)

And the vessels {H3984} also {H638} of {H1768} gold {H1722} and silver {H3702} of the house {H1005} of God {H426}, which Nebuchadnezzar {H5020} took {H5312} out of {H4481} the temple {H1965} that was in Jerusalem {H3390}, and brought {H2987} them into the temple {H1965} of Babylon {H895}, those {H1994} did Cyrus {H3567} the king {H4430} take {H5312} out of {H4481} the temple {H1965} of Babylon {H895}, and they were delivered {H3052} unto one, whose name {H8036} was Sheshbazzar {H8340}, whom he had made {H7761} governor {H6347};

Complete Jewish Bible

Moreover, the gold and silver articles belonging to the house of God, which N'vukhadnetzar had removed from the temple in Yerushalayim and brought to the temple of Bavel, Koresh the king took out of the temple in Bavel; they were turned over to a man named Sheshbatzar, whom he had appointed governor.

Berean Standard Bible

He also removed from the temple of Babylon the gold and silver articles belonging to the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken and carried there from the temple in Jerusalem. King Cyrus gave these articles to a man named Sheshbazzar, whom he appointed governor

American Standard Version

And the gold and silver vessels also of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, and brought into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto one whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 5:14 serves as a pivotal historical and theological anchor within the narrative of Israel's post-exilic restoration, meticulously detailing King Cyrus's profound act of returning the sacred gold and silver vessels belonging to the house of God. These were the very items that King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon had plundered from the temple in Jerusalem and subsequently brought into his own pagan temple in Babylon. This verse powerfully underscores the divine orchestration of historical events, revealing how Cyrus, a pagan monarch, was supernaturally moved to restore these holy objects to Sheshbazzar, the appointed governor, thereby initiating the physical and spiritual rebuilding of God's house in Jerusalem and symbolizing the tangible commencement of Israel's promised restoration after decades of exile.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a crucial turning point in the book of Ezra, following a period of significant opposition that had led to the cessation of temple reconstruction (as detailed in [Ezra 4:24](/ezra/4-24 "Ezra 4:24 - Work on the Temple Halted")). The narrative in [Ezra 5:1-2](/ezra/5-1-2 "Ezra 5:1-2 - Prophets Haggai and Zechariah Stir Up the People") describes the renewed impetus for rebuilding, spurred by the prophetic ministries of Haggai and Zechariah. The immediate preceding verses ([Ezra 5:11-13](/ezra/5-11-13 "Ezra 5:11-13 - Jewish Elders' Defense to Tattenai")) recount the Jewish elders' assertive defense to Tattenai, the Persian governor of Trans-Euphrates, where they justify their rebuilding efforts by appealing to Cyrus's original decree. Ezra 5:14 then provides the specific, tangible evidence of this decree: the return of the sacred temple vessels. This detail not only reinforces the legitimacy of the rebuilding project in the eyes of the Persian authorities but also serves as concrete proof of God's faithfulness, linking the current work directly to the initial, divinely-inspired decree of Cyrus and the tangible signs of His restoration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The backdrop for Ezra 5:14 is the monumental geopolitical shift from Babylonian to Persian supremacy. Following Babylon's conquest of Jerusalem in 586 BC, King Nebuchadnezzar systematically plundered the temple, carrying its sacred vessels to Babylon. This act was a common practice among victorious empires, serving as a powerful demonstration of dominance and often involving the incorporation of conquered deities or their cultic objects into the conqueror's pantheon, symbolizing the subjugation of the defeated god. However, Cyrus the Great, upon conquering Babylon in 539 BC, implemented a radically different policy of repatriation, allowing exiled peoples to return to their homelands and rebuild their temples. This unprecedented policy, famously documented in the Cyrus Cylinder, was a strategic approach to maintaining stability within his vast empire, but from a biblical perspective, it was undeniably the sovereign hand of God at work. The act of returning the vessels was not merely an administrative detail but a profound symbolic gesture, acknowledging the legitimacy of the Jewish God and His worship, and reversing the humiliation inflicted by Nebuchadnezzar.
* **Key Themes:** Ezra 5:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Ezra and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's absolute control over human history and His ability to use even pagan rulers like Cyrus to accomplish His redemptive purposes, fulfilling ancient prophecies concerning His chosen people (e.g., [Isaiah 44:28](/isaiah/44-28 "Isaiah 44:28 - Cyrus as God's Shepherd")). The return of the vessels also profoundly emphasizes **Restoration and Renewal**, signifying not just the physical rebuilding of the temple but the spiritual re-establishment of God's people after decades of exile, echoing the broader biblical promise of a new covenant and a renewed relationship with God (e.g., [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10-14 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - Promises of Restoration and Hope")). Furthermore, the verse highlights the **Sanctity of Sacred Objects and Worship**, underscoring that despite their temporary desecration and removal, the vessels dedicated to God remained holy in His sight, awaiting their rightful place in His house. This principle is foundational to the proper worship of Yahweh and signifies God's enduring covenant faithfulness, even through periods of national judgment and exile.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Vessels (Aramaic, _mâʼn'_):** This term (H3984) refers to implements, utensils, or articles, often with a specific function. In this context, "vessels of gold and silver of the house of God" specifically denotes the sacred cultic objects used in temple worship (e.g., bowls, basins, censers). Their material (gold and silver) signifies their preciousness, their dedication to divine service, and their inherent holiness. Their removal by Nebuchadnezzar marked the desecration and desolation of the temple, while their return by Cyrus symbolized the reversal of that judgment and the restoration of legitimate worship.
* **Temple (Aramaic, _hêykal'_):** This word (H1965) denotes a large public building, such as a palace or, more specifically here, a temple. The verse mentions the "temple that was in Jerusalem" (God's house) and the "temple of Babylon" (a pagan temple). The movement of the vessels between these two "temples" underscores the profound theological contrast between the true worship of Yahweh and the idolatrous practices of Babylon, highlighting the ultimate triumph of God's sovereignty over pagan deities.
* **Cyrus (Aramaic, _Kôwresh'_):** This name (H3567) refers to Koresh, the Persian king. Cyrus the Great was the founder of the Persian Empire, who conquered Babylon and issued the decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their temple. His name represents the pivotal turning point from exile to restoration, fulfilling prophetic declarations (e.g., [Isaiah 45:1](/isaiah/45-1 "Isaiah 45:1 - God's Anointed Cyrus")). His act of returning the vessels demonstrates his role as God's instrument, even unwittingly, in facilitating the divine plan for His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God,"**: This opening phrase immediately establishes the central subject of the verse: the precious, sacred implements dedicated specifically to the worship of Yahweh in the Jerusalem temple. The emphasis on "gold and silver" highlights their intrinsic value, their divine purpose, and their set-apart nature, distinguishing them as consecrated objects.
* **"which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that [was] in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon,"**: This clause provides the crucial historical background of the vessels' removal. It vividly recalls the traumatic events of Jerusalem's fall to the Babylonian Empire, where Nebuchadnezzar's plunder of the temple was a clear sign of Judah's defeat, the apparent triumph of pagan gods, and God's judgment upon His disobedient people. The transfer of these holy vessels to a pagan temple in Babylon represented a profound act of desecration and an assertion of Babylonian religious and military supremacy.
* **"those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon,"**: This marks the dramatic and divinely orchestrated reversal of fortune. Cyrus, the new world ruler, actively retrieves these very vessels from the pagan temple where they had been held captive. This action signifies the end of Babylonian dominance and the beginning of the Persian era's policy of religious tolerance, and, more importantly, the divine initiative to restore Israel's worship and national identity.
* **"and they were delivered unto [one], whose name [was] Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor;"**: This final clause specifies the recipient of the sacred vessels, Sheshbazzar, who is identified as the governor (or prince) appointed by Cyrus. This transfer of custody was not merely an administrative detail; it was a profoundly symbolic act of commissioning Sheshbazzar to lead the initial return of the exiles and, crucially, to oversee the rebuilding of the temple. The vessels served as tangible proof of the restoration's legitimacy and divine sanction, marking the physical and spiritual re-establishment of God's presence among His people.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 5:14 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Juxtaposition** is central to the verse's impact, starkly contrasting the actions of Nebuchadnezzar (destruction, plunder, desecration) with those of Cyrus (restoration, return, re-sanctification). This sharp contrast highlights the dramatic shift from divine judgment to divine favor and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes over human empires. The **Symbolism** of the vessels themselves is paramount; they are not mere objects but represent the enduring sanctity of God's presence, the continuity of His covenant with Israel, and the tangible promise of renewed worship. Their journey from Jerusalem to Babylon and back again encapsulates the entire narrative arc of exile and restoration. Furthermore, the verse uses **Repetition** of the word "temple" (Jerusalem, Babylon, Babylon again) to emphasize the geographical and spiritual journey of these sacred items, underscoring their significance as central to the worship of God, regardless of their temporary location or the political powers that sought to control them.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 5:14 is a powerful testament to God's unwavering sovereignty and faithfulness, demonstrating His ability to orchestrate the rise and fall of empires and to use even pagan rulers to accomplish His divine will. The return of the sacred vessels is not merely a historical detail but a profound theological statement that God remembers His covenant promises and actively works to restore His people and His worship, even after periods of severe judgment and apparent abandonment. It underscores the enduring sanctity of what is dedicated to God, affirming that His property, though temporarily desecrated, retains its inherent holiness and ultimate purpose in His eyes. This act of restoration serves as a tangible sign of God's redemptive plan unfolding in history, offering hope and assurance that His purposes will always prevail, regardless of the perceived power of human adversaries.

* [Ezra 1:7-11](/ezra/1-7-11 "Ezra 1:7-11 - Cyrus's Decree and the Return of Temple Vessels")
* [Isaiah 44:28](/isaiah/44-28 "Isaiah 44:28 - Cyrus as God's Shepherd and Builder")
* [Daniel 5:2-4](/daniel/5-2-4 "Daniel 5:2-4 - Belshazzar's Desecration of Temple Vessels")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 5:14 offers a profound lesson in divine faithfulness and the enduring nature of God's purposes, providing immense encouragement for believers in every generation. In a world often marked by chaos, political upheaval, and the apparent triumph of godless powers, this verse powerfully reminds us that God remains sovereign over all human affairs. Just as He used Cyrus, a foreign king, to reverse the destructive work of Nebuchadnezzar and restore what was sacred, so too does God continue to work in our lives and in the world, bringing restoration out of ruin, hope out of despair, and order out of chaos. It encourages us to trust implicitly in His overarching plan, even when circumstances seem bleak or His presence appears distant. For believers, this passage reinforces the idea that what is consecrated to God—our lives, our talents, our resources, our very bodies—retains its sacred value and ultimate purpose, regardless of the temporary "exiles," challenges, or periods of apparent desecration it may face. We are called to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us, knowing that He will ultimately bring about His intended restoration and glory, fulfilling His purposes in and through us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the contrast between Nebuchadnezzar's actions and Cyrus's decree in this verse speak to God's ultimate sovereignty over world leaders and empires, even those who do not acknowledge Him?**
* **In what ways might we, as believers, experience periods of "exile" or "desecration" in our own lives (e.g., through sin, suffering, or spiritual dryness), and how does this verse offer hope for God's eventual restoration?**
* **What "vessels" (talents, resources, time, relationships) has God entrusted to you, and how can you ensure they are used for His sacred purposes and remain set apart for Him, even amidst worldly pressures and temptations?**

### FAQ
**Who was Sheshbazzar, and what was his role in the return?**

Answer: Sheshbazzar was the individual specifically entrusted by King Cyrus with the sacred vessels of the temple and appointed as "governor" (or "prince of Judah") over the returning exiles. He led the first wave of Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem following Cyrus's decree. While the Bible does not explicitly state it, many scholars believe Sheshbazzar is either another name for Zerubbabel or that Zerubbabel succeeded him in leadership and continued the work he began. His role was crucial as he was the one who laid the foundation of the second temple, signifying the official commencement of the rebuilding project and the restoration of proper worship in Jerusalem, as detailed in [Ezra 3:8](/ezra/3-8 "Ezra 3:8 - Zerubbabel Lays the Foundation of the Temple").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 5:14, with its profound focus on the return of sacred vessels and the restoration of God's house, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The temple vessels, once plundered and then meticulously restored, powerfully foreshadow the ultimate "vessel" of God's presence: Jesus Himself, in whom "all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell" ([Colossians 1:19](/colossians/1-19 "Colossians 1:19 - Fullness of God in Christ")). Just as the physical temple was desecrated and then rebuilt, Jesus prophetically declared the destruction of the temple of His body and its rebuilding in three days, referring to His glorious resurrection ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Prophesies His Resurrection")). He is the true and greater temple, the perfect and eternal place where God truly dwells among His people and where ultimate worship is offered. Furthermore, the physical and spiritual restoration initiated by Cyrus through Sheshbazzar points to the far greater, comprehensive spiritual restoration accomplished by Christ. He is the ultimate "governor" and leader who gathers His people from spiritual exile, not merely to rebuild a physical structure, but to constitute the living temple of God—the Church—built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as God's Dwelling")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus takes away the sin that caused spiritual exile and estrangement from God, and by His Spirit, He transforms us, His followers, into "vessels for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work" ([2 Timothy 2:21](/2_timothy/2-21 "2 Timothy 2:21 - Vessels for Honorable Use")). Thus, Ezra 5:14 beautifully prefigures Christ's redemptive work, which brings about the ultimate restoration of God's people and the establishment of His eternal, spiritual kingdom.

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

Ezra 6:5

And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which [is] at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which [is] at Jerusalem, [every one] to his place, and place [them] in the house of God.

Jeremiah 52:19

And the basons, and the firepans, and the bowls, and the caldrons, and the candlesticks, and the spoons, and the cups; [that] which [was] of gold [in] gold, and [that] which [was] of silver [in] silver, took the captain of the guard away.

Daniel 5:2

Belshazzar, whiles he tasted the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple which [was] in Jerusalem; that the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, might drink therein.

Daniel 5:3

Then they brought the golden vessels that were taken out of the temple of the house of God which [was] at Jerusalem; and the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines, drank in them.

Ezra 5:16

Then came the same Sheshbazzar, [and] laid the foundation of the house of God which [is] in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and [yet] it is not finished.

Haggai 2:21

Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I will shake the heavens and the earth;

Ezra 7:27

¶ Blessed [be] the LORD God of our fathers, which hath put [such a thing] as this in the king's heart, to beautify the house of the LORD which [is] in Jerusalem: