Ezra 5:15

KJV

And said unto him, Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that [is] in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be builded in his place.

KJV (with Strong's)

And said {H560} unto him, Take {H5376} these {H412} vessels {H3984}, go {H236}, carry {H5182} them {H1994} into the temple {H1965} that is in Jerusalem {H3390}, and let the house {H1005} of God {H426} be builded {H1124} in {H5922} his place {H870}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He said to him, "Take these articles, go, put them in the temple in Yerushalayim, and let the house of God be rebuilt on its original site."

Berean Standard Bible

and instructed, ‘Take these articles, put them in the temple in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be rebuilt on its original site.’

American Standard Version

and he said unto him, Take these vessels, go, put them in the temple that is in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be builded in its place.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 5:15 records a pivotal part of the Jewish elders' testimony to the Persian authorities, directly quoting King Cyrus's original decree to Sheshbazzar. This verse encapsulates the divine mandate and royal authorization for the post-exilic rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, specifically commanding the return of the sacred vessels to the Temple and the reconstruction of the "house of God" on its original site. It underscores the legitimacy and spiritual significance of the monumental undertaking to restore proper worship and God's presence among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 5:15 is embedded within the Jewish elders' response to Tatnai, the Persian governor of Trans-Euphrates, and Shethar-boznai, his associate. These officials had arrived to investigate the renewed construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, which had previously ceased due to opposition (as detailed in [Ezra 4:24](/ezra/4-24 "Ezra 4:24 - Cessation of Temple Building")). The elders, inspired by the prophets Haggai and Zechariah (mentioned in [Ezra 5:1](/ezra/5-1 "Ezra 5:1 - Prophets Haggai and Zechariah")), recount the history of their return from Babylonian exile. Their testimony traces back to King Cyrus's decree, which not only permitted their return but also explicitly commanded the rebuilding of the Temple and the restoration of its sacred vessels. Thus, [Ezra 5:15](/ezra/5-15 "Ezra 5:15 - Cyrus's Command to Sheshbazzar") serves as a direct quotation of this foundational royal command, providing irrefutable legal and divine justification for their ongoing work.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Ezra 5:15 unfold during the early Persian Empire, specifically under Darius I, following the initial return of the Jewish exiles under Cyrus the Great. After seventy years of Babylonian captivity, Cyrus's decree (c. 538 BC) marked a significant shift in imperial policy, allowing conquered peoples to return to their homelands and rebuild their temples. This policy, a stark contrast to Babylonian deportation, aimed to foster loyalty and stability within the vast Persian empire. Aramaic, the language of this section of Ezra, was the common administrative language of the Persian Empire, making the elders' testimony directly understandable to Tatnai. The Temple in Jerusalem was not merely a religious building; it was the spiritual, cultural, and national center for the Jewish people, symbolizing their covenant relationship with God and their identity. The return of the sacred vessels, plundered by Nebuchadnezzar (as recorded in [2 Kings 25:14-15](/2_kings/25-14 "2 Kings 25:14-15 - Plundering of Temple Vessels")), was crucial, as these items were integral to the Levitical worship and sacrificial system, representing the restoration of holiness and legitimate worship.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Ezra and the broader post-exilic narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Royal Sanction**, demonstrating that God works through earthly rulers, even pagan ones like Cyrus, to accomplish His purposes. The rebuilding of the Temple was not merely a human endeavor but a divinely initiated task, authorized by the most powerful earthly ruler, lending it unparalleled authority. Secondly, it emphasizes the **Restoration of Sacred Worship and Holiness**. The explicit mention of returning the sacred vessels signifies more than just physical reconstruction; it points to the re-establishment of proper worship, the re-consecration of a holy space, and the renewed presence of God among His people in Jerusalem. This aligns with the prophetic calls for spiritual renewal and dedication, such as those found in [Haggai 1:2-4](/haggai/1-2 "Haggai 1:2 - Haggai's Rebuke to Build the House"). Finally, the verse underscores **God's Unwavering Faithfulness to His Promises**. Despite the long period of exile, the destruction of the first Temple, and the persistent opposition faced by the returning Jews, the re-issuance and confirmation of Cyrus's decree serve as a powerful testament to God's covenant faithfulness and His desire for His dwelling place to be re-established, fulfilling prophecies like that in [Isaiah 44:28](/isaiah/44-28 "Isaiah 44:28 - Cyrus as God's Shepherd").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **vessels (Aramaic, _ma'anayya'_):** These refer to the sacred implements and utensils used in the Temple service, such as bowls, censers, and other liturgical items. Their significance extends beyond mere objects; they were consecrated for holy use, symbolizing the sanctity of the Temple and the worship conducted within it. Their plundering by Nebuchadnezzar during the destruction of the First Temple (cf. [2 Kings 25:14](/2_kings/25-14 "2 Kings 25:14 - Temple Vessels Carried Away")) was a profound act of desecration and a sign of God's judgment. Their commanded return by Cyrus, therefore, signifies a reversal of this desecration, a restoration of holiness, and the re-legitimization of worship in Jerusalem.
* **temple (Aramaic, _beta'_):** While literally meaning "house," in this context, _beta_ specifically refers to the "house of God" (בֵּית אֱלָהָא), a common designation for the Jerusalem Temple. This term emphasizes its divine ownership and purpose as the dwelling place for God's name and presence among His people. The command to return the vessels "into the temple" highlights the centrality of this sacred structure for Israel's identity and their relationship with Yahweh.
* **builded (Aramaic, _yitb'ne'_):** This verb is in the passive imperfect form, meaning "let it be built" or "it is to be built." The passive voice is significant, implying that the building is not merely a human initiative but something that is divinely ordained and permitted, even commanded, by a sovereign power (in this case, Cyrus, acting under God's ultimate authority). It conveys a sense of divine imperative and an active process of construction that must be completed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And said unto him, Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that [is] in Jerusalem":** This clause directly quotes Cyrus's command to Sheshbazzar, the prince of Judah. It outlines the immediate and crucial task of retrieving the sacred Temple vessels from Babylon and transporting them back to Jerusalem. This act was not merely logistical; it was deeply symbolic, representing the reversal of the exile's desecration and the re-establishment of the legitimate, holy worship of Yahweh in His chosen city. The vessels, having been defiled by their use in pagan feasts (cf. [Daniel 5:2-4](/daniel/5-2 "Daniel 5:2 - Belshazzar's Feast")), needed to be returned to their rightful, consecrated place within the sacred space.
* **"and let the house of God be builded in his place":** This second clause articulates the ultimate purpose of the return and the restoration of the vessels: the reconstruction of the Temple itself. The phrase "the house of God" underscores its divine ownership and purpose as the dwelling place of Yahweh. "In his place" specifically refers to the original site of Solomon's Temple on Mount Moriah in Jerusalem. This detail is vital, emphasizing continuity with the past, adherence to divine instruction regarding the Temple's location, and the re-establishment of the spiritual center of Israel precisely where God had chosen to put His name. The passive construction "let...be builded" conveys a powerful sense of divine permission and imperative, indicating that this construction is not merely allowed but is a mandated act of restoration.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 5:15 primarily employs **Direct Quotation**, as it presents the exact words of King Cyrus's decree as recounted by the Jewish elders. This device lends immense **Authority** and **Legitimacy** to their actions, demonstrating that their work is not arbitrary but rooted in a powerful royal edict, which itself is understood to be divinely inspired. The verse also utilizes **Emphasis** through the dual command: first, the return of the sacred vessels, and second, the rebuilding of the Temple. These two actions are inextricably linked, underscoring their critical importance for the full restoration of Israel's spiritual life. Furthermore, there is profound **Symbolism** embedded in the "vessels" and the "house of God." The vessels symbolize the sanctity and continuity of Israelite worship, while the "house of God" symbolizes God's presence and covenant relationship with His people. Their return and reconstruction signify the restoration of God's favor and the re-establishment of His dwelling place among them.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 5:15 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering sovereignty, demonstrating His ability to orchestrate the affairs of nations and rulers—even pagan ones like Cyrus—to fulfill His redemptive purposes for His people. The decree to rebuild the Temple and return the sacred vessels underscores the profound importance of worship and the physical presence of God's dwelling place in the Old Testament economy, serving as a tangible sign of His covenant faithfulness. Despite the exile and the subsequent delays and opposition, God's plan for the restoration of Israel's spiritual life, centered around the Temple, remained steadfast. This verse highlights the theme of divine initiative and human responsibility, where God provides the means and authority, and His people are called to act in obedience and perseverance.

* [Jeremiah 29:10](/jeremiah/29-10 "Jeremiah 29:10 - Prophecy of Return from Exile")
* [Isaiah 44:28](/isaiah/44-28 "Isaiah 44:28 - Cyrus as God's Shepherd")
* [Haggai 1:8](/haggai/1-8 "Haggai 1:8 - Build the House")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 5:15 offers profound lessons for believers today, reminding us that God's purposes will ultimately prevail, even when faced with significant opposition, delays, or seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Just as the Jews had a clear divine mandate and royal sanction for their work, so too do believers have a divine calling to participate in God's ongoing work in the world. This verse encourages perseverance in our spiritual endeavors, knowing that our efforts, when aligned with God's will, are backed by His sovereign authority. It also prompts us to consider the "sacred vessels" in our own lives—our bodies, our gifts, our time, our resources—and ensure they are consecrated for God's glory and used in His "temple," which is now the Church and individual believers. The emphasis on rebuilding God's house in "his place" reminds us of the importance of spiritual foundations and the proper order of worship and life, centered on Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's sovereign control over earthly rulers, as seen in Cyrus's decree, encourage you in times of political or societal uncertainty?**
* **What "sacred vessels" (talents, resources, time) in your life might need to be "returned" or re-consecrated to God's service and worship?**
* **In what practical ways can you contribute to the "building" of God's spiritual house, the Church, in your local community and beyond?**
* **How does the perseverance of the exiles in rebuilding the Temple inspire you to continue in your own spiritual disciplines or ministry efforts despite challenges?**

### FAQ

**Why were the vessels so important to return to the Temple?**

Answer: The vessels were not merely decorative items but sacred implements consecrated for use in the worship and sacrificial rituals of the Temple. They symbolized the holiness of God and the legitimacy of the worship conducted in His presence. When Nebuchadnezzar plundered them (as recounted in [2 Kings 25:14](/2_kings/25-14 "2 Kings 25:14 - Plundering of Temple Vessels")), it was an act of desecration and a sign of God's judgment. Their return, therefore, was crucial for the restoration of proper, holy worship and for signifying God's renewed presence and favor among His people. The defilement of these vessels by Belshazzar in [Daniel 5:2-3](/daniel/5-2 "Daniel 5:2 - Belshazzar's Sacrilege") further underscores their profound spiritual significance and the gravity of their misuse.

**What does "his place" refer to in the context of the Temple being built?**

Answer: "His place" refers specifically to the original site of Solomon's Temple on Mount Moriah in Jerusalem. This detail is significant because it emphasizes continuity with the past and adherence to the divinely chosen location for God's dwelling place. It was not simply about building a temple anywhere, but about restoring the sacred structure precisely where God had established His name and where His presence had historically resided among His people. This continuity reinforced the legitimacy of the new Temple as the true "house of God" for the returned exiles.

**Who was Sheshbazzar, and what was his role?**

Answer: Sheshbazzar is identified in Ezra as the "prince of Judah" (or "prince of the house of Judah") whom King Cyrus appointed to lead the first wave of Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem. His primary role, as stated in [Ezra 1:8](/ezra/1-8 "Ezra 1:8 - Cyrus entrusts vessels to Sheshbazzar") and reiterated in [Ezra 5:14-16](/ezra/5-14 "Ezra 5:14 - Sheshbazzar Lays Foundation"), was to receive the sacred Temple vessels from Cyrus's treasury and to initiate the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem by laying its foundation. While his exact relationship to Zerubbabel is debated among scholars (some consider him a predecessor, others an alternative name for Zerubbabel), his historical role as the initial leader entrusted with the Temple's restoration is clear.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 5:15, with its focus on the physical temple and sacred vessels, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament Temple, as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, was a shadow pointing to the reality of Christ. Jesus Himself declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up," referring to the temple of His body ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19 - Jesus Predicts the Temple's Destruction and Resurrection")). He is the true and ultimate "house of God," the place where God truly dwells among humanity, perfectly mediating between God and man. The return of the sacred vessels to the Temple in Ezra foreshadows the new covenant reality where believers, consecrated by Christ's blood, become living "vessels" or "spiritual stones" built into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones for a Spiritual House")). Moreover, the rebuilding of the physical Temple in "his place" in Jerusalem gives way to a worship no longer confined to a specific geographical location but offered in spirit and truth, because God is Spirit ([John 4:21-24](/john/4-21 "John 4:21 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")). The Church, as the body of Christ, becomes the ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling place among humanity, "a dwelling place for God by the Spirit" ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Gentiles Built into God's Dwelling")). Thus, the physical restoration in Ezra points forward to the spiritual and eternal restoration accomplished through Christ, establishing a new and living temple made of believers.

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 6:3

In the first year of Cyrus the king [the same] Cyrus the king made a decree [concerning] the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, [and] the breadth thereof threescore cubits;

Ezra 3:3

And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear [was] upon them because of the people of those countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, [even] burnt offerings morning and evening.

Ezra 1:2

Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which [is] in Judah.