Ezra 6:8

KJV

Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, [even] of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered.

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover I {H4481} make {H7761} a decree {H2942} what {H3964} ye shall do {H5648} to {H5974} the elders {H7868} of these {H479} Jews {H3062} for the building {H1124} of this {H1791} house {H1005} of God {H426}: that of the king's {H4430} goods {H5232}, even of {H1768} the tribute {H4061} beyond {H5675} the river {H5103}, forthwith {H629} expenses {H5313} be {H1934} given {H3052} unto these {H479} men {H1400}, that they be not {H3809} hindered {H989}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Moreover, I herewith issue this order concerning how you are to assist these leaders of the Judeans in rebuilding this house of God: the expenses of these men are to be defrayed promptly from the royal funds, from the taxes collected beyond the River, so that the work can continue.

Berean Standard Bible

I hereby decree what you must do for these elders of the Jews who are rebuilding this house of God: The cost is to be paid in full to these men from the royal treasury out of the taxes of the provinces west of the Euphrates, so that the work will not be hindered.

American Standard Version

Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to these elders of the Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king’s goods, even of the tribute beyond the River, expenses be given with all diligence unto these men, that they be not hindered.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 6:8 records a pivotal decree from King Darius I of Persia, commanding that royal funds, specifically taxes collected from the Trans-Euphrates satrapy, be immediately allocated to support the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. This royal mandate not only confirmed the earlier decree of King Cyrus but also ensured that the Jewish elders and workers would receive all necessary expenses without delay, thereby preventing any further hindrance to the sacred construction project. It powerfully illustrates God's sovereign hand in orchestrating even pagan rulers to fulfill His divine purposes for His people and His house.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 6:8 is embedded within the narrative of the Temple's rebuilding after the Babylonian exile. Following King Cyrus's initial decree allowing the Jews to return and rebuild ([Ezra 1:1-4](/ezra/1-1 "Cyrus's Decree for the Return and Rebuilding")), work began but soon faced significant opposition from surrounding peoples, leading to its cessation for many years ([Ezra 4:24](/ezra/4-24 "Cessation of Temple Work")). Prophets Haggai and Zechariah then powerfully exhorted the people to resume construction ([Haggai 1:1-11](/haggai/1-1 "Haggai's Call to Rebuild the Temple"); [Zechariah 4:6-10](/zechariah/4-6 "Zechariah's Vision of Zerubbabel's Success")). When Tatnai, the governor of Trans-Euphrates, questioned the authority of the Jewish leaders and wrote to King Darius, Darius ordered a search of the royal archives. Upon discovering Cyrus's original decree in Ecbatana ([Ezra 6:1-5](/ezra/6-1 "Darius Finds Cyrus's Decree")), Darius not only reaffirmed it but issued an even stronger, more detailed mandate, including severe penalties for those who would obstruct the work. Verse 8 specifically outlines the financial provision that was to be given "forthwith."

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Persian Empire, under Darius I (522-486 BC), was a vast and highly organized dominion, divided into satrapies for administrative and taxation purposes. The region "beyond the river" (Trans-Euphrates, or Abar-Nahara in Aramaic) was a significant satrapy encompassing areas west of the Euphrates, including Judah, Syria, Phoenicia, and Samaria. Taxes collected from this region, known as "tribute," were a vital source of revenue for the Persian crown. Darius's decree to redirect these funds for the Temple's construction was an extraordinary act of royal patronage, demonstrating the king's absolute authority and his respect for the sanctity of the Jewish God, perhaps influenced by the discovery of Cyrus's original decree and a pragmatic desire for stability in his empire. This act would have been viewed as a significant demonstration of divine favor by the returning exiles, as it secured not only permission but also substantial financial backing from the world's superpower.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes within the book of Ezra and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**, demonstrating God's ability to use even pagan rulers like Darius to accomplish His redemptive purposes and provide for His people's needs, even from unexpected sources. This echoes the earlier use of Cyrus ([Ezra 1:1](/ezra/1-1 "Cyrus's Decree")). Secondly, it underscores the **Importance of God's House and Worship**. The Temple was central to Israel's identity and their covenant relationship with God; its rebuilding was not merely a construction project but a restoration of their spiritual life. The immediate and unhindered provision emphasizes the priority God places on the establishment and flourishing of true worship. Finally, the decree speaks to **Overcoming Opposition**. The Temple work had been stopped by adversaries ([Ezra 4:4-5](/ezra/4-4 "Opposition to Rebuilding")), but Darius's decree, with its strong backing and threat of severe penalties for those who would hinder the work ([Ezra 6:11-12](/ezra/6-11 "Darius's Decree on Penalties")), represents God's active intervention to protect His people and ensure His will is carried out despite human resistance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tribute (Aramaic, מִדַּת, _middaṯ_):** This term refers to a tax, impost, or levy collected by a ruling authority. In this context, it specifically denotes the regular financial contributions exacted by the Persian Empire from its provinces. The fact that this "tribute beyond the river" (i.e., from the satrapy of Trans-Euphrates, which included Judah) was to be redirected for the Temple's construction is profoundly significant, as it meant that the very resources intended for the imperial coffers were now being divinely channeled to support God's sacred work.
* **Forthwith (Aramaic, מְהִירָא, _məhîrā_):** This adverb means "quickly," "immediately," or "without delay." Its inclusion in the decree emphasizes the urgency and priority Darius placed on the financial provision. It was not to be a slow or bureaucratic process but an immediate release of funds, ensuring that the work on the Temple would not be stalled or hindered by financial constraints, reflecting the king's decisive and absolute authority.
* **Hindered (Aramaic, יִתְבַּטְּלוּן, _yitbaṭṭəlûn_):** Derived from a root meaning "to stop," "to cease," or "to be idle," this word highlights the primary concern addressed by the decree: preventing any further cessation or obstruction of the Temple work. The previous attempts to stop the building had succeeded ([Ezra 4:24](/ezra/4-24 "Work Ceased")), but Darius's decree, backed by royal authority and financial support, aimed to ensure that such hindrances would no longer be effective.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God:"** This opening clause establishes the king's absolute authority and the specific purpose of his command. Darius, as the supreme ruler, issues a binding edict directly to his provincial governors ("ye shall do"), specifying their responsibility towards the Jewish elders who are leading the Temple's reconstruction. The phrase "this house of God" underscores the sacred nature of the project and perhaps Darius's recognition of the God of Israel.
* **"that of the king's goods, [even] of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men,"** This is the core of the financial provision. Darius commands that the necessary funds ("expenses") for the Temple's construction be drawn directly from the royal treasury ("king's goods") and specifically from the tax revenues collected from the Trans-Euphrates satrapy. The inclusion of "forthwith" emphasizes the immediate and non-negotiable nature of this financial support, ensuring that resources would be available without delay.
* **"that they be not hindered."** This final clause states the explicit purpose and desired outcome of the decree's financial provision. The immediate and generous funding was designed to remove any financial obstacles or pretexts for opposition that could impede the progress of the Temple's rebuilding. It reflects Darius's determination to see the project completed without further interruption, securing stability and order in his realm by supporting the religious practices of a significant segment of his populace.

#### Literary Devices
The passage primarily functions as a **Royal Edict** or **Decree**, a formal and authoritative pronouncement from the king, characterized by its imperative tone and direct commands. This genre emphasizes the absolute power of the Persian monarch and the binding nature of his word. There is also a strong element of **Divine Irony** or **Providence** at play; the very taxes collected by a pagan empire, initially intended for its own treasury, are now commanded by the king to be redirected to fund the worship of the God of Israel. This unexpected source of provision highlights God's sovereign control over nations and their rulers, turning what was meant for imperial gain into a means for His redemptive purposes. The word "forthwith" serves as a powerful **Emphasis**, underscoring the urgency and non-negotiable nature of the king's command regarding the provision, ensuring no further delays.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 6:8 is a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and His sovereign ability to provide for His people and His work, even through unexpected and seemingly unlikely channels. It reveals that God's plans are not dependent on human resources or political alignments but can powerfully leverage them for His glory. Darius's decree is a clear demonstration that "the king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes" ([Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "The King's Heart in the Lord's Hand")). This divine orchestration ensures that His purposes for His people and the establishment of His worship will ultimately prevail, regardless of opposition or scarcity. It teaches us to look beyond conventional means for God's provision and to trust in His boundless capacity to supply all that is needed for His Kingdom work.

* [Ezra 1:1-4](/ezra/1-1 "Cyrus's Decree for Temple Rebuilding")
* [Isaiah 45:1-3](/isaiah/45-1 "God Uses Cyrus for His Purpose")
* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "God Will Supply All Your Needs")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 6:8 offers profound encouragement for believers today, reminding us that God remains actively involved in the affairs of humanity and is fully capable of providing for His work in the world. Just as He moved the heart of a pagan king to fund the rebuilding of His Temple, He can stir the hearts of individuals, institutions, and even governments to support His Kingdom initiatives today. This verse calls us to trust in God's provision, even when resources seem scarce or opposition is strong. It also challenges us, as members of God's people, to be diligent in our support of ministry, ensuring that those engaged in God's work are not "hindered" by a lack of necessary resources. Our giving, our prayers, and our active participation contribute to the unhindered progress of the gospel. Ultimately, it fosters perseverance in the face of adversity, knowing that God will always ensure His divine purposes are accomplished.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways have you seen God provide for His work through unexpected sources in your own life or ministry?**
* **How does the immediate and unhindered provision in this verse challenge your perspective on trusting God for resources?**
* **What practical steps can you take to ensure that those involved in God's work are not "hindered" by lack of support?**
* **How does the sovereignty of God over rulers and nations, as seen in Darius's decree, encourage you in times of political or societal uncertainty?**

### FAQ
**Why was King Darius so supportive of the Jewish Temple rebuilding project?**

Answer: Darius's support stemmed from a combination of factors. Firstly, he discovered and confirmed the original decree of King Cyrus ([Ezra 6:1-5](/ezra/6-1 "Darius Finds Cyrus's Decree")), which legally authorized the rebuilding. As a meticulous administrator and a king who valued order and stability, Darius would have felt compelled to uphold the decrees of his predecessors. Secondly, supporting the religious practices of his subjects, particularly those who prayed for the king and his sons ([Ezra 6:10](/ezra/6-10 "Jews Pray for King Darius")), was a common and pragmatic strategy for maintaining peace and loyalty within his vast empire. By providing royal funds and protection, Darius ensured the project's completion, thereby securing the allegiance of the Jewish community and preventing further unrest in a key satrapy. Ultimately, from a biblical perspective, God was sovereignly working through Darius's heart and political motivations to accomplish His divine will, just as He had done with Cyrus ([Isaiah 45:1-3](/isaiah/45-1 "God Uses Cyrus for His Purpose")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ezra 6:8 speaks of the provision for a physical temple, its ultimate fulfillment points to the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the true and ultimate Temple of God. The immediate and unhindered provision for the Old Testament Temple foreshadows God's perfect and complete provision for the spiritual Temple, which is the church, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "The Church as God's Dwelling Place")). Just as Darius's decree ensured the physical structure could be completed, Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection provide the full and final means for humanity to access God, tearing down the veil that separated humanity from the Most Holy Place ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Access to God Through Christ's Blood")). He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), providing the ultimate "expenses" for our spiritual rebuilding and reconciliation with God. Through Him, believers become living stones, built into a spiritual house for a holy priesthood ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "Living Stones, Spiritual House")), and God promises to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus ([Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "God Will Supply All Your Needs")), ensuring that His redemptive work in and through His people will never be hindered.

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 6:4

[With] three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house:

Haggai 2:8

The silver [is] mine, and the gold [is] mine, saith the LORD of hosts.

Ezra 7:15

And to carry the silver and gold, which the king and his counsellors have freely offered unto the God of Israel, whose habitation [is] in Jerusalem,

Ezra 7:22

Unto an hundred talents of silver, and to an hundred measures of wheat, and to an hundred baths of wine, and to an hundred baths of oil, and salt without prescribing [how much].

Ezra 5:5

But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this [matter].

Ezra 4:16

We certify the king that, if this city be builded [again], and the walls thereof set up, by this means thou shalt have no portion on this side the river.

Psalms 68:29

Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.