Ezra 7:15

KJV

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,

KJV (with Strong's)

And to carry {H2987} the silver {H3702} and gold {H1722}, which the king {H4430} and his counsellors {H3272} have freely offered {H5069} unto the God {H426} of Israel {H3479}, whose {H1768} habitation {H4907} is in Jerusalem {H3390},

Complete Jewish Bible

You are also to bring with you the silver and gold which the king and his counselors have voluntarily offered to the God of Isra'el, whose dwelling is in Yerushalayim;

Berean Standard Bible

Moreover, you are to take with you the silver and gold that the king and his counselors have freely offered to the God of Israel, whose dwelling is in Jerusalem,

American Standard Version

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,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 7:15 describes a pivotal moment in the post-exilic restoration of Jerusalem, highlighting the generous contribution of silver and gold by King Artaxerxes and his counselors. These precious metals were freely offered for the service of the God of Israel, whose sacred dwelling place was established in Jerusalem. This verse underscores divine providence, demonstrating how God can move the hearts of even pagan rulers to support His purposes, specifically the beautification and resourcing of the temple and the re-establishment of Mosaic Law in the Holy City.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 7:15 is situated within the broader narrative of Ezra's return to Jerusalem, specifically detailing the decree issued by King Artaxerxes I Longimanus (465-424 BC). This chapter marks a significant turning point, shifting focus from the initial return under Zerubbabel and the completion of the Second Temple in [Ezra 6](/ezra/6 "Ezra 6 - Completion of the Temple") to the spiritual and legal restoration led by Ezra. The preceding verses (Ezra 7:11-14) outline the king's official letter, granting Ezra extensive authority as a scribe "skilled in the Law of Moses" to transport temple vessels, collect offerings, and implement God's law. Verse 15 specifically details the king's personal contribution, alongside his counselors, of valuable resources, emphasizing the royal endorsement and provision for the temple and its services. This sets the stage for Ezra's journey and his subsequent reforms, demonstrating a divinely orchestrated provision for the spiritual renewal of the Jewish community.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Ezra 7 unfold during the Persian Empire's dominion over Judah, a period following the Babylonian exile. The Achaemenid Persian kings, while polytheistic, often adopted a policy of religious tolerance and even patronage towards the diverse peoples within their vast empire, provided it ensured stability and loyalty. Artaxerxes' decree, therefore, while remarkable, fits within this broader imperial strategy. The "God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem" refers to the recently rebuilt Second Temple, completed in 516 BC (as recorded in [Ezra 6:15](/ezra/6-15 "Ezra 6:15 - Temple Completion")). The king's offering of silver and gold was not merely a political gesture but a substantial material contribution, reflecting the immense wealth of the Persian court and the high value placed on such metals. This act also reflects ancient Near Eastern diplomatic practices, where rulers would often send gifts or resources to support cultic activities in various parts of their empire, sometimes to appease deities or secure divine favor, even from foreign gods.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Ezra and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, **Divine Providence** is prominently displayed, as God sovereignly works through unexpected channels—even a pagan king—to accomplish His will for His people. This echoes the truth found in [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in God's Hand"), which states that "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord like channels of water; He turns it wherever He wishes." Secondly, the theme of **Generosity and Support for Worship** is highlighted by the "freely offered" nature of the gifts. This emphasizes the importance of voluntary and abundant contributions for the advancement of God's work, particularly in the context of temple service and the re-establishment of spiritual order. Lastly, the phrase "whose habitation is in Jerusalem" reinforces the **Significance of Jerusalem and the Temple** as the chosen place for God's presence among His people. Despite the exile and the destruction of the first temple, Jerusalem remains the focal point of Israel's worship and identity, signifying God's faithfulness to His covenant promises regarding His dwelling place.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Freely Offered (Hebrew, _nadab'_):** The Hebrew verb נָדַב (_nadab_) signifies a willing, spontaneous, and generous contribution, often going beyond what is strictly required or expected. It implies an act of voluntary beneficence, a freewill offering born of a willing heart. In this context, it underscores that King Artaxerxes' and his counselors' gifts were not coerced or extracted under duress, but rather presented as an act of genuine, albeit perhaps politically motivated, generosity. This emphasizes the remarkable nature of God's influence, moving even a foreign monarch to such a benevolent act towards the God of Israel.
* **Habitation (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** The Hebrew word בַּיִת (_bayith_) literally means "house" or "dwelling place." In this context, it unequivocally refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, which was considered the earthly dwelling place of God's presence among His people. While God's omnipresence is a foundational theological truth, the Temple served as the designated locus for His special, manifest presence and for the performance of His prescribed worship. The phrase "whose habitation is in Jerusalem" powerfully reaffirms Jerusalem's unique theological status as the sacred center of Israelite worship and the chosen city where God had placed His name.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And to carry the silver and gold":** This initial clause specifies the purpose of Ezra's mission regarding the precious metals. It implies the physical transportation of these valuable assets from the Persian capital (Susa or Babylon) to Jerusalem. This was not a small undertaking, requiring significant logistical planning, security, and trust, given the immense value of the cargo. The "silver and gold" were not merely currency but sacred offerings designated for the temple.
* **"which the king and his counsellors have freely offered":** This part identifies the source of the precious metals and the nature of their contribution. The "king and his counsellors" highlights the highest echelons of Persian power, indicating a significant, official, and unanimous decision. The phrase "freely offered" (as discussed in Key Word Analysis) emphasizes the voluntary and generous nature of their gifts, suggesting a divine influence at work in the hearts of these pagan rulers, moving them to support the God of Israel.
* **"unto the God of Israel, whose habitation [is] in Jerusalem":** This final clause clarifies the ultimate recipient and purpose of the offerings, as well as the theological significance of the destination. The gifts were directed "unto the God of Israel," explicitly acknowledging Him as the rightful recipient of such worship and honor. The appended phrase "whose habitation [is] in Jerusalem" serves as a theological anchor, reinforcing Jerusalem's unique status as the city where God had chosen to establish His earthly dwelling place—the Temple. This connection underscores the sacred purpose of the offerings: to beautify, maintain, and resource the very place where God's presence resided among His people.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 7:15 employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. **Divine Irony** is present in the fact that a pagan king and his non-Israelite counselors are "freely offering" precious metals to the God of Israel. This highlights God's sovereignty over all rulers and nations, demonstrating His ability to use even those outside His covenant people to accomplish His redemptive purposes. There is also clear **Emphasis** on the value and quantity of the offerings through the mention of "silver and gold," signifying the king's abundant generosity and the importance of the temple's needs. The phrase "whose habitation is in Jerusalem" functions as a powerful **Theological Affirmation**, reiterating Jerusalem's unique status as God's chosen dwelling place, even after the destruction of the first temple and the exile. This serves to reinforce the continuity of God's covenant promises and His enduring presence with His people in their restored homeland.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 7:15 serves as a profound theological statement on God's sovereign control over human affairs and His unwavering commitment to His people and His dwelling place. It illustrates that God's plans are not contingent on human piety alone, but He can orchestrate events and move the hearts of powerful individuals, even those outside the covenant community, to fulfill His purposes. This divine orchestration ensures that resources are provided for the advancement of His kingdom and the restoration of His worship. The voluntary nature of the king's offering also speaks to the principle of generous giving as an act of devotion and support for spiritual endeavors, reminding us that all resources ultimately belong to God and are to be used for His glory. The specific mention of Jerusalem as God's "habitation" reaffirms the enduring significance of the Temple as the center of Israel's worship and the tangible symbol of God's presence among them, setting the stage for the spiritual reforms Ezra was to enact.

* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The Lord Directs Kings' Hearts")
* [Psalm 122:6-9](/psalm/122-6 "Psalm 122:6-9 - Prayer for Jerusalem's Peace")
* [Haggai 1:8](/haggai/1-8 "Haggai 1:8 - Rebuild the Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 7:15 offers timeless lessons for believers today. It powerfully reminds us that God is sovereign over all earthly authorities and circumstances. Just as He moved the heart of a pagan king to contribute to His work, He can use any person, any situation, or any resource to advance His kingdom purposes. This should inspire both trust in His providence and openness to unexpected avenues of blessing and support for ministry. Furthermore, the "freely offered" nature of the gifts challenges us to consider our own generosity towards God's work. Are we giving willingly, spontaneously, and beyond what is merely required, recognizing that our material resources can be instrumental in building up His church and spreading His truth? Finally, the emphasis on Jerusalem as God's "habitation" underscores the importance of places where God's truth is taught and His worship is conducted. We are called to value, support, and participate in the life of the local church and other ministries that faithfully proclaim God's Word and facilitate His presence among His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the sovereignty of God over King Artaxerxes' heart encourage your faith in God's ability to work in seemingly impossible situations today?**
* **In what ways can you "freely offer" your resources—whether time, talent, or treasure—to support God's work in your community and beyond?**
* **What is the "habitation" of God in your life, and how are you investing in and valuing the places and communities where His truth is proclaimed and His presence is experienced?**

### FAQ

**Why would a pagan king like Artaxerxes contribute to the God of Israel?**

Answer: King Artaxerxes' contribution was likely a confluence of factors, all ultimately orchestrated by divine providence. Historically, Persian kings often adopted a policy of religious tolerance and even patronage towards the diverse cults within their empire as a means of maintaining stability and securing the favor of various deities, hoping for blessings upon their own reign and empire. Ezra's wisdom and diplomatic skill, perhaps divinely inspired, may have also played a role in gaining the king's favor. Ultimately, the biblical perspective attributes this generosity to the sovereign hand of God, who "turns the king's heart wherever He wishes" ([Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The Lord Directs Kings' Hearts")). It demonstrates God's ability to use unexpected instruments, even non-believers, to accomplish His purposes for His people and the advancement of His kingdom.

**What was the specific purpose of the silver and gold mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The silver and gold were primarily intended for the beautification and service of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 7:16-19 elaborates on their use, stating they were for "the house of your God which is in Jerusalem" and for "whatever seems good to you and your brothers to do with the rest of the silver and gold." This included purchasing animals for sacrifices, grain offerings, drink offerings, and potentially for the general upkeep and adornment of the temple structure itself. The king's decree also permitted Ezra to draw further funds from the royal treasury if needed ([Ezra 7:20](/ezra/7-20 "Ezra 7:20 - Royal Provision for the Temple")), underscoring the comprehensive nature of the provision for the temple's needs and the re-establishment of its full sacrificial system.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 7:15, with its focus on God's "habitation in Jerusalem" and the generous offerings for His temple, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament temple, though a place of God's special presence, was a physical structure, limited by space and time, and its sacrifices were temporary. Jesus, however, is the very embodiment of God's dwelling among humanity, the true and eternal "habitation" of God. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") declares, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us," literally "tabernacled" among us, signifying that in Christ, God's presence is no longer confined to a building but is personally present in human form. The silver and gold offered by Artaxerxes, while valuable, were material gifts for a temporary sanctuary. Christ, in contrast, offered Himself as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice, 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")). His self-offering was not merely generous but complete and eternally effective, fulfilling all the types and shadows of the Old Testament sacrificial system. Furthermore, through Christ, believers themselves become "temples of the Holy Spirit" ([1_corinthians/6-19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")), signifying that God's dwelling place is now within His people, a spiritual reality far surpassing any physical structure. Thus, the provision for the earthly temple in Ezra 7:15 foreshadows the infinitely greater provision of God's presence and salvation found in Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate temple, sacrifice, and dwelling place.

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

2 Chronicles 6:2

But I have built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for thy dwelling for ever.

Psalms 135:21

Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.

Ezra 6:12

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.

2 Chronicles 6:6

But I have chosen Jerusalem, that my name might be there; and have chosen David to be over my people Israel.

Ezra 6:8

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.

Ezra 6:10

That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons.

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: