Ezra 6:22

For seven days they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread with joy, because the LORD had made them joyful and turned the heart of the king of Assyria toward them to strengthen their hands in the work on the house of the God of Israel.

Study Bible

For seven days
This phrase indicates the duration of the celebration, which is the Feast of Unleavened Bread following the Passover. The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, reflecting the fullness of joy and worship experienced by the Israelites during this time. Historically, the Feast of Unleavened Bread was a time of remembrance for the Israelites, commemorating their deliverance from Egypt and the haste with which they left, as they had no time to let their bread rise.

they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread
This feast is a significant Jewish festival that follows Passover, emphasizing purity and the removal of sin, symbolized by the absence of leaven. The Hebrew root for "unleavened" is "matzot," which refers to bread made without yeast, representing the Israelites' quick departure from Egypt. This observance is a call to holiness and a reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness.

with joy
The joy experienced by the Israelites is profound, stemming from their renewed relationship with God and the successful completion of the temple. This joy is not merely an emotional response but a deep, spiritual rejoicing in God's faithfulness and provision. The Hebrew word for joy, "simchah," conveys a sense of gladness and celebration, reflecting the communal and spiritual nature of their worship.

for the LORD had given them joy
This phrase underscores the divine source of their joy. It is God who instills joy in the hearts of His people, a joy that transcends circumstances and is rooted in His presence and promises. The acknowledgment that the LORD is the giver of joy highlights the Israelites' dependence on God and their recognition of His sovereignty and grace.

by changing the attitude of the king of Assyria
This refers to God's sovereign intervention in the affairs of nations. The "king of Assyria" here is likely a reference to Darius, the Persian king, as the Persian Empire had absorbed the Assyrian territories. God's ability to influence the hearts of kings is a recurring theme in Scripture, demonstrating His ultimate authority over earthly rulers. This change of attitude allowed the Israelites to rebuild the temple and worship freely, showcasing God's providential care for His people.

so that he supported them
The support from the king of Assyria, or Darius, was crucial for the Israelites. This support included not only permission to rebuild the temple but also resources and protection. The Hebrew concept of support here implies a strengthening or upholding, indicating that God used the king's favor to establish and secure His people's place in the land.

in the work on the house of God, the God of Israel
The "house of God" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people. The phrase "the God of Israel" reaffirms the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites. This work on the temple was not just a physical construction project but a spiritual renewal, reestablishing the worship and practices that defined the identity of the Israelite community. The completion of the temple was a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The Jewish people who returned from Babylonian exile and were involved in the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.

2. The Feast of Unleavened Bread
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Exodus from Egypt, celebrated with joy and gratitude.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who intervenes in the affairs of nations and individuals.

4. The King of Assyria
Likely referring to Darius I of Persia, who ruled over the former Assyrian territories and supported the rebuilding of the temple.

5. The House of God
The temple in Jerusalem, central to Jewish worship and identity.

Teaching Points

The Power of Divine Intervention
God can change the hearts of leaders and authorities to fulfill His purposes. Trust in His sovereignty over all circumstances.

The Importance of Joy in Worship
Joy is a vital component of worship and celebration. Reflect on how joy in the Lord can transform our spiritual practices and daily lives.

The Significance of Obedience and Tradition
Observing God-given traditions like the Feast of Unleavened Bread can deepen our faith and understanding of His work in history.

Community and Support in God's Work
The support from unexpected sources, like the king of Assyria, highlights the importance of community and collaboration in fulfilling God's work.

Remembering God's Faithfulness
Celebrations like the Feast of Unleavened Bread serve as reminders of God's past faithfulness, encouraging us to trust Him for the future.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the joy experienced by the Israelites during the Feast of Unleavened Bread challenge or inspire your current approach to worship?

2. In what ways have you seen God change the hearts of those in authority to support His work in your life or community?

3. How can the observance of biblical traditions and festivals enhance your spiritual journey and understanding of God's faithfulness?

4. Reflect on a time when unexpected support helped you in your spiritual walk. How can you be a source of support for others in their faith journey?

5. How does the concept of joy as a strength, as seen in Nehemiah 8:10, apply to your current life circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The original institution of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, highlighting its historical and spiritual significance.

Proverbs 21:1
Illustrates how God can change the hearts of kings, aligning with how He influenced the king of Assyria.

Philippians 4:4
Encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord always, similar to the joy experienced by the Israelites.

2 Chronicles 30:21
Another instance of the celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread with great joy, showing continuity in worship practices.

Nehemiah 8:10
Emphasizes the joy of the Lord as a source of strength, paralleling the joy experienced by the Israelites.