2 Chronicles 36:22

In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah, the LORD stirred the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia to send a proclamation throughout his kingdom and to put it in writing as follows:

Study Bible

In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia
This phrase marks a significant historical transition. Cyrus the Great, founder of the Achaemenid Empire, conquered Babylon in 539 BC. His first year as king of Persia over Babylon is pivotal in biblical history, as it marks the end of the Babylonian exile for the Jews. The Hebrew term for "first year" (שָׁנָה רִאשׁוֹנָה, shanah rishonah) emphasizes the beginning of a new era, a divinely orchestrated shift in power that aligns with God's redemptive plan.

to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah
This phrase underscores the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises. Jeremiah had prophesied the Babylonian captivity and its duration of seventy years (Jeremiah 25:11-12, 29:10). The Hebrew word for "fulfill" (לְמַלּוֹת, lemalot) conveys the idea of completion or bringing to fruition. This fulfillment demonstrates God's sovereignty and the reliability of His word, encouraging believers to trust in His promises.

the LORD stirred the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia
The phrase highlights divine intervention in human affairs. The Hebrew verb for "stirred" (עוּר, ur) means to awaken or incite. It indicates that God actively influenced Cyrus's heart, prompting him to act according to divine purpose. This divine stirring is a testament to God's control over the hearts of rulers and His ability to use them to accomplish His will, reinforcing the belief in God's omnipotence and providence.

to send a proclamation throughout his kingdom
This phrase reflects the widespread impact of Cyrus's decree. The Persian Empire was vast, and the proclamation (קֹל, qol) was a public announcement intended to reach all subjects. The act of sending a proclamation signifies the official and authoritative nature of the decree, ensuring that the message of liberation and restoration reached the Jewish exiles. It serves as a reminder of God's ability to communicate His will through established political structures.

and to put it in writing, saying
The act of putting the proclamation in writing (כָּתוּב, kathuv) emphasizes its permanence and authority. Written decrees in the ancient Near East were binding and served as legal documents. This written record ensured that the decree would be preserved and executed, highlighting the importance of documentation in fulfilling God's purposes. It also symbolizes the enduring nature of God's promises, which are recorded in Scripture for all generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cyrus King of Persia
The ruler of the Persian Empire who played a pivotal role in the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem. His decree allowed the rebuilding of the temple.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who orchestrates historical events to fulfill His promises.

3. Jeremiah
A prophet whose prophecies included the promise of the return of the exiles after 70 years of captivity (Jeremiah 29:10).

4. The Proclamation
A royal decree issued by Cyrus, which allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.

5. The Kingdom of Persia
The vast empire over which Cyrus ruled, encompassing many nations, including the land of Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in History
God is in control of world events and uses even pagan rulers to accomplish His purposes.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
The fulfillment of Jeremiah's prophecy through Cyrus demonstrates the reliability and faithfulness of God's Word.

The Role of Leaders
God can use leaders, regardless of their faith, to bring about His plans. Pray for leaders to be open to God's guidance.

The Power of God's Spirit
The stirring of Cyrus's spirit by the LORD shows that God can move hearts to fulfill His will. Seek to be sensitive to the Spirit's leading in your life.

Hope and Restoration
Just as God restored the exiles, He offers hope and restoration to us today. Trust in His timing and promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of Cyrus demonstrate God's ability to use anyone for His purposes, and how can this encourage us in our current political climate?

2. In what ways does the fulfillment of prophecy in this passage strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

3. How can we apply the principle of God's sovereignty in history to our personal lives, especially during uncertain times?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are sensitive to the stirring of the Holy Spirit in our own lives?

5. How does the theme of hope and restoration in this passage relate to the New Testament message of redemption through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 1:1-4
This passage parallels 2 Chronicles 36:22, providing additional details about Cyrus's decree and the return of the exiles.

Isaiah 44:28-45:1
Isaiah prophesied about Cyrus by name, declaring that he would be God's instrument to restore Jerusalem and the temple.

Jeremiah 29:10
This prophecy foretold the return of the exiles after 70 years, which Cyrus's decree fulfilled.