Ezra 8:33

KJV

Now on the fourth day was the silver and the gold and the vessels weighed in the house of our God by the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the priest; and with him [was] Eleazar the son of Phinehas; and with them [was] Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Binnui, Levites;

KJV (with Strong's)

Now on the fourth {H7243} day {H3117} was the silver {H3701} and the gold {H2091} and the vessels {H3627} weighed {H8254} in the house {H1004} of our God {H430} by the hand {H3027} of Meremoth {H4822} the son {H1121} of Uriah {H223} the priest {H3548}; and with him was Eleazar {H499} the son {H1121} of Phinehas {H6372}; and with them was Jozabad {H3107} the son {H1121} of Jeshua {H3442}, and Noadiah {H5129} the son {H1121} of Binnui {H1131}, Levites {H3881};

Complete Jewish Bible

On the fourth day, the silver, gold and articles were weighed in the house of our God and handed over to M'remot the son of Uriyah the cohen; with him was El'azar the son of Pinchas; and with them were Yozavad the son of Yeshua and No'adyah the son of Binui, who were L'vi'im.

Berean Standard Bible

On the fourth day, in the house of our God, we weighed out the silver and gold and sacred articles into the hand of Meremoth son of Uriah, the priest. Eleazar son of Phinehas was with him, along with the Levites Jozabad son of Jeshua and Noadiah son of Binnui.

American Standard Version

And on the fourth day the silver and the gold and the vessels were weighed in the house of our God into the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the priest (and with him was Eleazar the son of Phinehas; and with them was Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Binnui, the Levites)—

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 8:33 records the meticulous and public weighing of the substantial silver, gold, and sacred vessels in the Temple precinct in Jerusalem, four days after Ezra and his company arrived from Babylon. This act, overseen by designated priests and Levites, marked the transparent and accountable transfer of the precious contributions entrusted to Ezra for the rebuilding and furnishing of God's house, signifying the successful completion of their divinely protected journey.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culmination of a significant phase in the post-exilic return. Having arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month (Ezra 7:9), Ezra 8:33 specifies that "on the fourth day" after their arrival, the crucial task of weighing the treasures took place. This immediate action highlights the urgency and importance of the task. Earlier, Ezra had refused a royal military escort, opting instead to rely on God's protection, a decision underscored by a period of fasting and prayer at the river Ahava (Ezra 8:21-23). The safe arrival of the vast wealth, which included silver, gold, and vessels donated by King Artaxerxes, his counselors, and the Israelites remaining in Babylon (Ezra 8:25-27), was a testament to God's faithfulness. Before their departure, Ezra had carefully appointed twelve leading priests and Levites to guard these treasures during the perilous journey (Ezra 8:29-30), emphasizing the principle of accountability that culminates in this public weighing.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is post-exilic Jerusalem, a city still recovering from the Babylonian destruction. The Temple, though rebuilt under Zerubbabel, was still in need of furnishing and dedicated items for worship. The treasures carried by Ezra were not merely wealth but sacred donations intended for the "house of our God," underscoring their immense religious significance. Journeys from Babylon to Jerusalem were fraught with danger, including banditry, making the safe arrival of such a valuable cargo a remarkable feat. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, public weighing of precious metals was a common practice to ensure transparency and prevent fraud, especially for large sums or items of public trust. The involvement of priests and Levites was culturally and religiously mandated, as they were the designated custodians of temple property and responsible for maintaining ritual purity and order within the sacred precincts.
* **Key Themes:** Ezra 8:33 powerfully illustrates several core themes. Firstly, **Stewardship and Accountability** are paramount; the meticulous weighing and public verification of the treasures demonstrate a profound commitment to handling God's resources with utmost care and transparency. This echoes the biblical principle that much is required from those to whom much is given, as seen in [Luke 16:10](/luke/16-10 "Luke 16:10 - Faithfulness in Small Matters"). Secondly, **Integrity and Transparency** are highlighted by the public nature of the weighing "in the house of our God" and the naming of specific, authoritative individuals. This open accounting prevented suspicion and affirmed the blamelessness of all involved in managing sacred property. Thirdly, **Divine Protection and Faithfulness** are evident in the safe arrival of the vast wealth despite the dangers of the journey, a direct answer to Ezra's earlier prayer and fasting for God's hand to be upon them (Ezra 8:21-23). Finally, the verse underscores the importance of **Order and Process** in sacred matters, emphasizing that God's work should be conducted with diligence, proper procedure, and adherence to established protocols.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **weighed (Hebrew, _shaqal'_):** This verb signifies a precise and careful measurement, often used in contexts of commercial transactions or, more specifically, the handling of precious metals like silver and gold. It implies verification, exactness, and a thorough inventory process, ensuring that the quantity received matched the quantity entrusted. The use of this word underscores the meticulousness and accountability inherent in the transfer of these sacred treasures.
* **house of our God (Hebrew, _bet eloheinu'_):** This phrase refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, specifically its precincts or treasury area. The location of the weighing was significant, as it was a sacred, public, and authoritative space. Conducting the weighing here lent an air of solemnity, divine oversight, and public legitimacy to the transaction, reinforcing its integrity and preventing any private or clandestine dealings.
* **vessels (Hebrew, _kelim'_):** While literally meaning "containers" or "implements," in this context, "vessels" refers specifically to the sacred utensils and implements used in Temple worship and service. These were not merely valuable objects but consecrated items, essential for the proper functioning of the Temple rituals and offerings. Their careful weighing alongside the silver and gold emphasizes their importance and their dedicated purpose for God's service.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now on the fourth day":** This specifies the precise timing of the event, indicating that the weighing occurred promptly, just four days after Ezra and his company arrived in Jerusalem. This immediate action demonstrates a sense of urgency and commitment to fulfilling their sacred trust without delay.
* **"was the silver and the gold and the vessels weighed":** This clause details the action and the objects involved. The verb "weighed" emphasizes the meticulous, precise, and verifiable accounting of the precious metals and sacred implements. It highlights the thoroughness of the inventory process, ensuring transparency and accountability for the vast wealth transported from Babylon.
* **"in the house of our God":** This specifies the location of the weighing. Conducting this vital transaction within the Temple precinct (or its treasury) underscored its sacred nature and public legitimacy. It was a place of divine presence and official authority, ensuring that the process was transparent and beyond reproach.
* **"by the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the priest; and with him [was] Eleazar the son of Phinehas; and with them [was] Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Binnui, Levites;":** This enumerates the specific individuals entrusted with this crucial task. Meremoth and Eleazar are identified as priests, emphasizing their authority and sacred role in handling Temple property. Jozabad and Noadiah are identified as Levites, who traditionally assisted the priests in Temple service and administration. The naming of these specific individuals underscores the principle of personal accountability and the official, authorized nature of the weighing process.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 8:33 employs several literary devices to convey its message. The primary device is **Enumeration** or **Cataloging**, seen in the precise listing of the items weighed ("silver and the gold and the vessels") and, more significantly, the specific individuals responsible ("Meremoth... Eleazar... Jozabad... Noadiah"). This detailed listing emphasizes the meticulousness, thoroughness, and transparency of the process, leaving no room for ambiguity or suspicion regarding the handling of the sacred treasures. Furthermore, the act of "weighing" itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing not only physical measurement but also the spiritual principles of accountability, integrity, and the faithful fulfillment of a divine trust. The safe arrival and public accounting of these treasures also serve as a **Testimony** to God's protective hand and faithfulness, providing a tangible demonstration of His answer to Ezra's prayer for a safe journey.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 8:33 provides a powerful theological lesson on the nature of stewardship and accountability before God. The meticulous weighing of the treasures underscores that all resources, especially those dedicated to God's service, must be handled with the utmost integrity and transparency. This act was not merely an administrative formality but a sacred duty, reflecting the understanding that these items were God's property, entrusted to human hands. The public nature of the weighing, overseen by designated priests and Levites, reinforces the biblical emphasis on blamelessness in ministry and the importance of avoiding even the appearance of impropriety. This commitment to integrity serves as a witness to God's character and His expectation that His people reflect His righteousness in all their dealings. The safe arrival of the treasures, followed by their careful accounting, also testifies to God's faithfulness in protecting those who trust in Him and His provision for His work.

* [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Requirement of Stewardship")
* [Luke 16:10](/luke/16-10 "Luke 16:10 - Faithfulness in Small Matters")
* [Proverbs 11:3](/proverbs/11-3 "Proverbs 11:3 - Integrity Guides the Upright")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 8:33 offers timeless principles for believers today, particularly regarding our approach to stewardship and integrity. Just as Ezra and his companions were meticulously accountable for the physical treasures entrusted to them, we are called to be faithful stewards of all that God has given us – our time, talents, spiritual gifts, financial resources, and even our relationships. This verse challenges us to consider how we manage what is not truly ours but belongs to God. Are we transparent in our dealings, both in our personal lives and in our service within the church? Do we conduct ourselves in a way that is above reproach, reflecting the integrity of Christ? The public weighing serves as a powerful reminder that our actions are observed, and our integrity is a testimony. Furthermore, the safe arrival of the treasures, a direct answer to prayer, encourages us to trust God for protection and provision in our own endeavors, knowing that He is faithful to those who commit their way to Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to exercise greater stewardship and accountability?**
* **How does the transparency demonstrated in Ezra 8:33 challenge you to live with greater integrity in your dealings with others and with God?**
* **What "treasures" (material or spiritual) has God entrusted to you, and how are you faithfully managing them for His glory?**

### FAQ

**Why was such a detailed weighing necessary?**

Answer: The detailed weighing was necessary for several critical reasons. Firstly, it ensured **transparency and accountability**. The treasures were immensely valuable and had been transported over a long, dangerous journey; a public, meticulous accounting prevented any suspicion of theft, loss, or mismanagement. Secondly, it served as a **verification** process, confirming that the full amount of silver, gold, and vessels initially inventoried and entrusted to Ezra (Ezra 8:26-27) had indeed arrived safely. Thirdly, it was a practical demonstration of **integrity**, both for Ezra and for the appointed guardians, reassuring the community and the Persian authorities that the sacred gifts were handled with the utmost care. This act provided a clear record and validated the faithfulness of those entrusted with God's resources, echoing the biblical principle of providing for what is honorable not only in the sight of the Lord but also in the sight of men ([2 Corinthians 8:21](/2_corinthians/8-21 "2 Corinthians 8:21 - Providing for What is Honorable")).

**What was the significance of the "fourth day"?**

Answer: The "fourth day" signifies the promptness and urgency with which Ezra and his companions fulfilled their sacred duty upon arriving in Jerusalem. After a long and perilous journey, one might expect a period of rest, but the immediate attention to weighing the treasures demonstrates their deep commitment to stewardship and their understanding of the importance of these consecrated items. It highlights that the transfer of these sacred resources was a top priority, not to be delayed, reinforcing the theme of diligent and faithful service to God.

**Who were Meremoth, Eleazar, Jozabad, and Noadiah, and why were they chosen?**

Answer: Meremoth the son of Uriah and Eleazar the son of Phinehas were priests, while Jozabad the son of Jeshua and Noadiah the son of Binnui were Levites. These individuals were chosen for their specific roles and lineage within the Israelite community, particularly concerning Temple service. Priests and Levites were divinely appointed to oversee the sacred affairs of the Temple, including the handling of its finances and dedicated items. Their involvement ensured that the weighing process was conducted with proper religious protocol, authority, and integrity. Their presence also represented the broader community, adding another layer of transparency and accountability to the transaction. Their selection underscores the importance of entrusting sacred responsibilities to those who are both qualified and of proven character, as was the case with the Levites who were appointed to serve the tabernacle ([Numbers 3:6-8](/numbers/3-6 "Numbers 3:6-8 - Levites Appointed to Serve the Tabernacle")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 8:33, with its emphasis on meticulous stewardship, transparent accountability, and divine protection over sacred treasures, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Ezra oversaw the physical treasures for a material temple, Christ is the ultimate steward of God's redemptive plan, faithfully executing His Father's will in every detail, declaring, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work" ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do the Will of God")). His life was one of perfect integrity and transparency, "He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth" ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ Committed No Sin")), fulfilling the ideal of blamelessness that the priests and Levites in Ezra sought to embody. Moreover, Christ himself is the supreme "treasure" given by God to humanity, far surpassing any silver or gold, for in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom are Hidden All Treasures")). Through His sacrifice, we become the new "house of God," a spiritual temple not made with human hands ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on the Foundation of the Apostles and Prophets")), and we are entrusted with the immeasurable spiritual treasures of the Gospel and the gifts of the Holy Spirit ([2 Corinthians 4:7](/2_corinthians/4-7 "2 Corinthians 4:7 - Treasure in Jars of Clay")). Just as the treasures were weighed and accounted for, believers are called to be faithful stewards of these spiritual riches, knowing that one day we will all stand before Christ to give an account of what we have done with what He has entrusted to us ([Romans 14:12](/romans/14-12 "Romans 14:12 - Everyone Will Give an Account to God")).

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

Nehemiah 3:4

And next unto them repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah, the son of Koz. And next unto them repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah, the son of Meshezabeel. And next unto them repaired Zadok the son of Baana.

Ezra 8:30

So took the priests and the Levites the weight of the silver, and the gold, and the vessels, to bring [them] to Jerusalem unto the house of our God.

Nehemiah 3:21

After him repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah the son of Koz another piece, from the door of the house of Eliashib even to the end of the house of Eliashib.

Nehemiah 10:9

And the Levites: both Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui of the sons of Henadad, Kadmiel;

Nehemiah 3:24

After him repaired Binnui the son of Henadad another piece, from the house of Azariah unto the turning [of the wall], even unto the corner.

1 Chronicles 28:14

[He gave] of gold by weight for [things] of gold, for all instruments of all manner of service; [silver also] for all instruments of silver by weight, for all instruments of every kind of service:

1 Chronicles 28:18

And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of the chariot of the cherubims, that spread out [their wings], and covered the ark of the covenant of the LORD.