Ezra 5:8

Commentary on Ezra 5:8

Ezra 5:8 is part of a crucial report sent by Tatnai, the governor of the region "on this side the river," and his associates to King Darius. This letter details the ongoing work of rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem, which had been authorized by King Cyrus years earlier.

Context

Following the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua, efforts to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem resumed after a period of cessation due to opposition. The verse describes the progress of this monumental undertaking. Tatnai, concerned about the activity and the authority behind it, writes to King Darius to inquire about the decree that permitted this construction. This verse specifically highlights the key details of the work: it's taking place in the "province of Judea," the building is "the house of the great God," constructed with "great stones, and timber is laid in the walls," and crucially, "this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands." This report serves as a formal inquiry to the king, leading to Darius's verification of King Cyrus's original decree, which ultimately ensured the continuation and completion of the Temple.

Key Themes

• Divine Providence and Blessing: The phrase "prospereth in their hands" indicates more than mere human effort; it suggests divine favor and blessing on the work. Despite previous opposition and delays, the project is now moving forward successfully, affirming God's hand in its progress.
• Diligence and Perseverance: The report emphasizes that the work is "goeth fast on," reflecting the dedication and diligence of the Jewish builders under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua. Their commitment to God's house is evident.
• The Significance of God's House: The Temple is reverently referred to as "the house of the great God," underscoring its sacred purpose and the awe with which it was regarded. This title distinguishes Yahweh from the pagan deities of the surrounding nations.
• Accountability and Authority: The letter itself highlights the importance of proper authority and accountability, even in divine work. Tatnai's inquiry, though initially challenging, ultimately served to re-establish the legal basis for the Temple's reconstruction.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the great God" (Aramaic: אֱלָהָא רַבָּא, ʼElahaʼ Rabbaʼ) is a powerful descriptor, emphasizing the sovereignty and supreme power of the God of Israel. It stands in stark contrast to the various lesser gods worshipped by the surrounding peoples and by the Persian Empire itself, asserting the unique and incomparable nature of Yahweh.

The word "prospereth" (Aramaic: שָׁלֵם, shalem) implies completion, success, and well-being. It conveys that the work was not only progressing quickly but also effectively and successfully, suggesting that it was being brought to a good and thriving state. This linguistic nuance reinforces the idea of divine blessing on the builders' efforts.

Practical Application

Ezra 5:8 offers several timeless lessons. First, it reminds us that God's work, even when faced with opposition or delays, will ultimately "prosper in their hands" when undertaken with diligence and faith. Just as the Temple builders were diligent, we are called to be faithful and persistent in our spiritual tasks and callings. Second, it highlights God's faithfulness to His purposes; despite the challenges, His plan for the Temple's restoration was unstoppable. We can trust that God will bring to completion the good work He has begun in us and through us (Philippians 1:6). Finally, the verse encourages us to pursue our endeavors with the knowledge that God's "good hand" is upon us, much like Nehemiah also experienced God's favor in his rebuilding efforts.