Ezra 3:6

On the first day of the seventh month, the Israelites began to offer burnt offerings to the LORD, although the foundation of the temple of the LORD had not been laid.

Study Bible

On the first day of the seventh month
This phrase marks a significant time in the Jewish calendar, known as Tishri, which is a month filled with important religious observances, including the Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah) and the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). The first day of the seventh month is particularly significant as it represents a time of renewal and reflection. Historically, this period was a time of gathering and spiritual renewal for the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of aligning their lives with God's commandments.

they began to offer burnt offerings
The act of offering burnt offerings is deeply rooted in the Hebrew tradition as a means of worship and atonement. The Hebrew word for burnt offering, "olah," signifies something that ascends, symbolizing the offering's ascent to God. This act of worship was a demonstration of the Israelites' devotion and obedience to God, even before the physical structure of the temple was established. It underscores the principle that worship and dedication to God are not confined to a physical location but are acts of the heart and spirit.

to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capital letters indicates the translation of the Hebrew name for God, YHWH, which is considered sacred and ineffable. This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenant relationship with His people. Offering sacrifices to the LORD highlights the Israelites' recognition of God's sovereignty and their desire to maintain a covenant relationship with Him, despite the absence of a temple.

though the foundation of the temple of the LORD had not been laid
This phrase emphasizes the faith and commitment of the Israelites. Despite the absence of a physical temple, their worship was not hindered. The foundation of the temple represents the beginning of a new era of worship and community life centered around God's presence. Historically, this reflects the period of restoration after the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites prioritized re-establishing their spiritual practices even before the physical rebuilding of the temple. It serves as a powerful reminder that true worship is not dependent on physical structures but on the heart's posture towards God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The returning exiles who had come back to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity. They were committed to restoring their worship and relationship with God.

2. The Altar
The first structure to be rebuilt upon the return to Jerusalem. It was central to the worship and sacrificial system of the Israelites.

3. The Seventh Month
This is the month of Tishri in the Hebrew calendar, a significant time for the Israelites as it includes important festivals such as the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles.

4. Burnt Offerings
These were offerings made to God, symbolizing atonement and dedication. They were a key part of the Israelites' worship and covenant relationship with God.

5. The Temple Foundation
Although the foundation of the temple had not yet been laid, the Israelites prioritized re-establishing their worship practices.

Teaching Points

Prioritizing Worship
The Israelites prioritized worship even before the physical structure of the temple was rebuilt. This teaches us the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God over physical or material concerns.

Faith in Action
By offering sacrifices without a temple, the Israelites demonstrated faith and obedience. We are called to act in faith, trusting God even when circumstances are not ideal.

Significance of Timing
The timing of their offerings during the seventh month shows the importance of aligning our lives with God's appointed times and seasons.

Community and Unity
The collective action of the Israelites in rebuilding the altar and offering sacrifices highlights the power of community and unity in worship and service to God.

Spiritual Foundations
Just as the Israelites began with spiritual foundations before physical ones, we should focus on building strong spiritual foundations in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Israelites' decision to offer sacrifices before laying the temple foundation teach us about the priorities in our spiritual lives?

2. How can we apply the principle of "faith in action" in our current circumstances, especially when facing challenges or uncertainties?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship aligns with God's appointed times and seasons, as seen in the significance of the seventh month?

4. How can we foster a sense of community and unity in our church or small group, similar to the collective efforts of the Israelites?

5. What steps can we take to build strong spiritual foundations in our personal lives, and how can this impact our relationship with God and others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
This chapter outlines the festivals of the seventh month, providing context for the timing of the events in Ezra 3:6.

Haggai 1
This passage emphasizes the importance of rebuilding the temple and prioritizing God's house, which aligns with the actions of the Israelites in Ezra 3:6.

Nehemiah 8
Describes the reading of the Law during the seventh month, highlighting the spiritual renewal and commitment of the people during this time.