Ezra 6:12

KJV

And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter [and] to destroy this house of God which [is] at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the God {H426} that hath caused his name {H8036} to dwell {H7932} there {H8536} destroy {H4049} all {H3606} kings {H4430} and people {H5972}, that shall put {H7972} to their hand {H3028} to alter {H8133} and to destroy {H2255} this {H1791} house {H1005} of God {H426} which is at Jerusalem {H3390}. I {H576} Darius {H1868} have made {H7761} a decree {H2942}; let it be done {H5648} with speed {H629}.

Complete Jewish Bible

May the God who has caused his name to be there overthrow any king or people that tries to defy it and destroy this house of God in Yerushalayim. "I, Daryavesh, have issued this order. Let it be carried out to the letter."

Berean Standard Bible

May God, who has caused His Name to dwell there, overthrow any king or people who lifts a hand to alter this decree or to destroy this house of God in Jerusalem. I, Darius, have issued the decree. Let it be carried out with diligence.

American Standard Version

and the God that hath caused his name to dwell there overthrow all kings and peoples that shall put forth their hand to alter the same, to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with all diligence.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 6:12 records King Darius I's powerful decree, confirming the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple and invoking severe divine judgment upon any king or people who would dare to hinder, alter, or destroy this sacred house of God. The verse culminates with Darius's emphatic declaration of his imperial authority, demanding the swift and unhindered execution of his edict, thereby ensuring the completion of God's work under the highest earthly protection.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 6:12 stands as the climatic statement within King Darius's royal decree, found in [Ezra 6:1-12](/ezra/6-12 "Ezra 6 - Darius's Decree and Temple Completion"). The broader narrative of Ezra recounts the return of Jewish exiles from Babylon and their efforts to rebuild the Temple, which had been destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar. After initial enthusiasm, the work faced significant opposition from neighboring peoples, detailed in [Ezra 4](/ezra/4 "Ezra 4 - Opposition to Rebuilding the Temple"), leading to a cessation of construction. Prophets Haggai and Zechariah then spurred the people to resume building, as seen in [Haggai 1:1-11](/haggai/1-11 "Haggai 1:1-11 - The Call to Rebuild the Temple"). When the Persian governor Tattenai questioned the Jews' authority, he wrote to Darius, who ordered a search for Cyrus's original decree. Upon finding it, Darius not only reconfirmed Cyrus's mandate but also added his own powerful endorsement, including the severe warning of Ezra 6:12, providing crucial legal and financial backing for the project's completion. This verse serves as the ultimate imperial guarantee, removing all legal obstacles and threatening divine retribution against any future interference.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Persian Empire, under Darius I (522-486 BC), was renowned for its efficient administration and a policy of relative religious tolerance, often permitting conquered peoples to practice their religions and rebuild their sanctuaries, provided they remained loyal subjects. This policy, famously exemplified by the [Cyrus Cylinder](/ezra/1-2 "Ezra 1:2 - Cyrus's Decree for Temple Rebuilding"), aimed to foster stability and loyalty within the vast empire. Darius's decree in Ezra 6:12 reflects this administrative pragmatism, coupled with a respect for the local deities, even if he did not personally worship the God of Israel. The Temple in Jerusalem was not merely a religious site but also a symbol of Jewish national identity and a focal point for their community. The opposition faced by the Jews often stemmed from local political rivalries and xenophobia rather than official Persian policy. Darius's decree, therefore, was a significant legal instrument that effectively leveraged the full power of the Persian state to protect and expedite the Temple's reconstruction, demonstrating how God could use even pagan rulers to accomplish His divine purposes, as highlighted in [Isaiah 45:1-7](/isaiah/45-1 "Isaiah 45:1-7 - God's Sovereignty Over Cyrus").
* **Key Themes:** Ezra 6:12 powerfully encapsulates several key theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**, demonstrating God's absolute control over earthly rulers and empires. Even a mighty pagan king like Darius is shown to be an instrument in God's hands, orchestrating events to protect His people and His sacred work, echoing the truth found in [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in God's Hand"). Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Sanctity and Importance of God's House**. The Temple is not just a building; it is "this house of God which is at Jerusalem," the chosen place where God "caused his name to dwell," signifying His unique presence, authority, and covenant relationship with Israel. Its rebuilding was central to the restoration of Israel's spiritual life. Thirdly, it highlights the severe **Consequences of Opposition to God's Work**. The explicit threat of "destroy all kings and people" who "alter [and] to destroy this house" reveals the gravity of interfering with God's divine plan, indicating that such actions incur divine wrath and judgment. Finally, the concluding phrase, "I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed," illustrates **Royal Authority and Expediency**, signifying the full, unchallengeable weight of the Persian empire behind the Temple's rebuilding, demanding immediate and unhindered execution, removing all bureaucratic and physical obstacles.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **dwell (Aramaic, _shᵉkan'_):** This Aramaic verb (H7932) means "to reside or permanently stay," cognate with the Hebrew _shakan_. When used in the context of God's "name to dwell," it signifies God's chosen, manifested presence in a particular location, not His omnipresence. It denotes a covenantal dwelling, where God reveals His character, exercises His authority, and enters into a special relationship with His people. This concept is foundational to the idea of the Shekinah glory, God's visible presence among Israel in the Tabernacle and Temple.
* **alter (Aramaic, _shᵉnâʼ'_):** The Aramaic verb _shᵉnâʼ_ (H8133) means "to change, alter, deviate, or be diverse." In this context, it refers to any attempt to modify, corrupt, or deviate from the divinely ordained purpose, design, or function of the Temple. This could encompass changing its architectural plans, its prescribed rituals, or its theological significance, indicating God's concern for the integrity and purity of His sanctuary's intended use.
* **destroy (Aramaic, _chăbal'_):** This Aramaic verb _chăbal_ (H2255) means "to ruin, destroy, corrupt, or lay waste." It refers to outright demolition or physical destruction of the Temple. The inclusion of both "alter" and "destroy" emphasizes that God's protection extends not only to the physical structure of His house but also to the integrity of its purpose and the purity of its worship. Any attempt to corrupt or physically harm His sanctuary incurs His severe wrath.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there":** This opening clause establishes the ultimate divine authority behind the decree, even though it is spoken by a pagan king. It acknowledges the unique God of Israel, who has chosen Jerusalem as the special place for His manifested presence and covenantal relationship with His people. Darius, though not a worshiper of Yahweh, implicitly recognizes the power and territorial claim of this God.
* **"destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter [and] to destroy this house of God which [is] at Jerusalem":** This is the core of the imprecation, pronouncing a severe curse. It invokes divine judgment ("destroy") upon anyone—regardless of their status ("all kings and people")—who actively attempts ("put to their hand") to interfere with the Temple. The dual nature of the interference, "to alter [and] to destroy," underscores God's meticulous concern for both the physical integrity and the spiritual purity/purpose of His house. The specificity of "this house of God which is at Jerusalem" leaves no ambiguity about the object of divine protection.
* **"I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.":** This concluding statement asserts the full weight of imperial authority. "I Darius" emphasizes the personal, unchallengeable command of the Persian emperor. The phrase "have made a decree" signifies that this is a legally binding, official edict. The final imperative, "let it be done with speed," demands immediate and unhindered compliance, removing any potential for bureaucratic delay or further opposition, ensuring the swift completion of the Temple.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 6:12 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Divine Imprecation** is central, as Darius invokes a curse from the God of Israel upon those who would interfere with the Temple, lending a supernatural weight to his decree. The entire passage functions as a **Royal Edict** or **Decree**, a formal, authoritative pronouncement, characterized by its declarative and commanding tone. There is a clear **Juxtaposition** between human authority (Darius's decree) and divine authority (the God who will destroy), demonstrating how earthly power can be aligned with and even serve divine purposes. The phrase "destroy all kings and people" can be seen as **Hyperbole** or strong, emphatic language, used to convey the absolute seriousness and comprehensive scope of the threatened judgment, deterring any potential opposition. Finally, the **Symbolism** of "this house of God" is paramount; it represents not just a physical structure but the very presence of God among His people, their covenant identity, and the locus of their worship and hope.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 6:12 serves as a profound testament to God's unwavering sovereignty over all earthly powers and His steadfast commitment to His people and His redemptive purposes. It reveals that God is not limited by political landscapes or human opposition; rather, He orchestrates events, even through pagan rulers, to ensure the advancement of His will. The sanctity of His dwelling place, whether the physical Temple in Jerusalem or, by extension, His spiritual house, the Church, is fiercely protected. This verse underscores the serious consequences for those who oppose or corrupt God's work, reminding us that interfering with His divine plans incurs His righteous judgment. It also highlights the importance of diligence and promptness in carrying out God's commands, trusting that He provides the necessary authority and protection.

* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in God's Hand")
* [Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the Lord Builds the House")
* [Zechariah 4:6](/zechariah/4-6 "Zechariah 4:6 - Not by Might, Nor by Power, But by My Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 6:12 offers profound reassurance and a sober warning for believers today. It reminds us that our God remains utterly sovereign, capable of moving the hearts of kings and orchestrating global events to accomplish His will, even when circumstances seem overwhelmingly against us. Just as He used Darius to protect the rebuilding of His physical house, He continues to work through unexpected means to advance His spiritual kingdom and protect His people. This should inspire immense confidence and perseverance in our own callings and ministries, knowing that God is ultimately in control. Furthermore, the severe warning against those who "alter [and] to destroy" God's house challenges us to consider how we, as members of God's spiritual house (the Church), might inadvertently hinder or corrupt His work. This could be through theological compromise, disunity, neglecting spiritual disciplines, or failing to uphold the purity of the gospel. The decree's emphasis on "speed" also calls us to diligence and urgency in fulfilling the Great Commission and participating in God's ongoing work in the world, trusting in His ultimate provision and protection.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Ezra 6:12 affirm your trust in God's sovereignty over earthly powers and circumstances today, especially when facing opposition?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or as a church community, be tempted to "alter" or "destroy" God's spiritual house or His work through compromise, division, or neglect?**
* **What "speed" or diligence is God calling you to in participating in His kingdom work, and what obstacles might He be removing for you to fulfill that call?**

### FAQ
**Why would a pagan king like Darius issue such a decree, invoking the God of Israel?**

Answer: Darius's decree aligns with the general Persian policy of respecting local deities and allowing conquered peoples to practice their religions, which fostered stability and loyalty within the empire. From a human perspective, Darius was an efficient administrator who sought to resolve a dispute and ensure the smooth functioning of his vast domain. From a divine perspective, it demonstrates God's sovereignty over all rulers, even those who do not know Him. As [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in God's Hand") states, "The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will." God used Darius as an instrument to fulfill His promise to restore His people and their Temple.

**What is the significance of "caused his name to dwell there"?**

Answer: This phrase is a profound theological statement. It does not mean that God is physically confined to the Temple, as God is omnipresent. Instead, it signifies that God chose Jerusalem and the Temple as the specific place where His presence would be uniquely manifested, where His glory would be revealed, and where He would enter into a special covenantal relationship with His people. It was the designated locus for His worship, where His "name"—representing His character, authority, and covenant faithfulness—was uniquely established among Israel. This concept is foundational to understanding the sanctity of the Temple throughout Israel's history.

**How does this verse apply to us today, since there is no physical Temple in Jerusalem in the same way?**

Answer: While the physical Temple no longer stands as the central place of God's dwelling, the principles of Ezra 6:12 remain profoundly relevant. God's sovereignty over earthly powers endures, and He continues to protect His work and His people. Today, God's "house" is understood spiritually: individual believers are temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")), and the Church, the body of Christ, is God's spiritual dwelling place ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21-22 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - The Church, a Holy Temple")). Therefore, the warning against those who "alter [and] to destroy" applies to any attempt to corrupt the purity of the Church, hinder the spread of the Gospel, or undermine the faith of believers. Conversely, the assurance of divine protection encourages us in our mission, knowing that God will ultimately defend His work.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 6:12, with its emphasis on the sanctity and protection of "this house of God," finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Jerusalem Temple, though divinely ordained, was a shadow and a type, pointing forward to the true dwelling place of God among humanity. 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")). In Christ, the fullness of God dwells bodily ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - The Fullness of God in Christ")), making Him the ultimate "house of God" where God's name truly dwells. The divine imprecation against those who would "alter [and] to destroy" the Temple foreshadows the intense opposition Christ faced, culminating in His crucifixion, yet God's ultimate purpose could not be thwarted, as He was raised on the third day. Furthermore, Christ is the builder of His spiritual house, the Church, declaring, "I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Jesus Builds His Church")). Just as Darius's decree protected the physical Temple, Christ's ongoing work protects and preserves His Church, His body, ensuring its ultimate triumph over all destructive forces. The urgency ("with speed") of Darius's decree also echoes the urgency of the Great Commission given by Christ, empowering His disciples to swiftly carry out His work, knowing that He is with them always, to the very end of the age ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). Thus, Ezra 6:12 points beyond a physical structure to the person and work of Jesus, the true Temple, and to His enduring protection of 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 9:3

And the LORD said unto him, I have heard thy prayer and thy supplication, that thou hast made before me: I have hallowed this house, which thou hast built, to put my name there for ever; and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually.

Deuteronomy 12:5

¶ But unto the place which the LORD your God shall choose out of all your tribes to put his name there, [even] unto his habitation shall ye seek, and thither thou shalt come:

Deuteronomy 12:11

Then there shall be a place which the LORD your God shall choose to cause his name to dwell there; thither shall ye bring all that I command you; your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, your tithes, and the heave offering of your hand, and all your choice vows which ye vow unto the LORD:

Exodus 20:24

An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee.

Zechariah 12:2

Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah [and] against Jerusalem.

Zechariah 12:4

In that day, saith the LORD, I will smite every horse with astonishment, and his rider with madness: and I will open mine eyes upon the house of Judah, and will smite every horse of the people with blindness.

Psalms 137:8

O daughter of Babylon, who art to be destroyed; happy [shall he be], that rewardeth thee as thou hast served us.