Ezra 8:27

Also twenty basons of gold, of a thousand drams; and two vessels of fine copper, precious as gold.

Also twenty {H6242} basons {H3713} of gold {H2091}, of a thousand {H505} drams {H150}; and two {H8147} vessels {H3627} of fine {H2896}{H6668} copper {H5178}, precious {H2532} as gold {H2091}.

twenty gold bowls weighing twenty-one pounds, and two vessels of fine burnished bronze as precious as gold.

20 gold bowls valued at 1,000 darics, and two articles of fine polished bronze, as precious as gold.

and twenty bowls of gold, of a thousand darics; and two vessels of fine bright brass, precious as gold.

Commentary

Context

Ezra 8:27 is part of a detailed inventory of valuable offerings entrusted to Ezra and his companions for transport from Babylon back to Jerusalem. This journey was undertaken to restore the Temple and its services after the Babylonian exile. Before embarking on this perilous journey, Ezra called for a fast, seeking divine protection rather than a military escort, emphasizing their reliance on God's hand.

Inventory of Sacred Offerings

This verse specifically details two significant categories of items:

  • "Twenty basons of gold, of a thousand drams": These basins were likely used for Temple service, perhaps for collecting blood from sacrifices or other ritual washings. A "dram" (also known as a daric) was a Persian gold coin and also a unit of weight, signifying a substantial quantity of gold – a testament to the immense wealth being dedicated to God's house.
  • "Two vessels of fine copper, precious as gold": This is a particularly noteworthy detail. While copper was a common metal, the description "fine copper, precious as gold" indicates an extraordinary quality. This could refer to a highly refined bronze, a unique alloy, or perhaps vessels of exceptional artistry and craftsmanship that elevated their value far beyond their base material. It highlights that value for God's service isn't always tied solely to the intrinsic worth of the material but also to its purity, rarity, or the skill involved in its creation.

Key Themes and Significance

  • Generosity and Dedication: The sheer volume and quality of these offerings—from both the Persian king and the returning exiles—underscore a profound commitment to the restoration of Temple worship and a deep reverence for God.
  • Divine Provision and Protection: The meticulous accounting of these treasures, coupled with Ezra's decision to forgo a military guard, exemplifies Ezra's unwavering trust in God's protective hand over His people and their consecrated gifts.
  • Excellence for God's House: The inclusion of items like the "fine copper, precious as gold" speaks to the principle that only the best was deemed suitable for the Lord's service. This echoes the biblical emphasis on offering God our choicest possessions and efforts, as seen in various offerings throughout scripture (Malachi 1:8 warns against offering blemished sacrifices).

Practical Application

Ezra 8:27 serves as a powerful reminder of stewardship and devotion. It encourages believers to consider the quality of what they offer to God—be it their time, talents, or material resources. Just as the "fine copper" was valued for its unique quality, our contributions, even if seemingly ordinary, become precious in God's sight when offered with a pure heart and dedicated purpose. It also reinforces the truth that God is capable of protecting and providing for His people and their endeavors, even in the face of significant challenges.

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Cross-References

  • Lamentations 4:2

    The precious sons of Zion, comparable to fine gold, how are they esteemed as earthen pitchers, the work of the hands of the potter!
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