◄ Ezra 5 ►
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Temple Rebuilding Resumes (Haggai 1:1–11) 1Later, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them. 2Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadaka rose up and began to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, helping them. 3At that time Tattenai the governor of the region west of the Euphrates,b Shethar-bozenai, and their associates went to the Jews and asked, “Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?” 4They also asked,c “What are the names of the men who are constructing this building?” 5But the eye of their God was on the elders of the Jews, so that they were not stopped until a report was sent to Darius and written instructions about this matter were returned. Tattenai’s Letter to Darius 6This is the text of the letter that Tattenai the governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates, the officials in the region, sent to King Darius. 7The report they sent him read as follows: To King Darius: All peace. 8Let it be known to the king that we went into the province of Judah, to the house of the great God. The people are rebuilding it with large stones and placing timbers in the walls. This work is being carried out diligently and is prospering in their hands. 9So we questioned the elders and asked, “Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?” 10We also asked for their names, so that we could write down the names of their leadersd for your information. 11And this is the answer they returned: “We are servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the temple that was built many years ago, which a great king of Israel built and completed. 12But since our fathers angered the God of heaven, He delivered them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, the Chaldean who destroyed this temple and carried away the people to Babylon. 13In the first year of his reign, however, Cyrus king of Babylon issued a decree to rebuild this house of God. 14He also removed from the templee of Babylon the gold and silver articles belonging to the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken and carried there from the temple in Jerusalem. King Cyrus gave these articles to a man named Sheshbazzar, whom he appointed governor 15and instructed, ‘Take these articles, put them in the temple in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be rebuilt on its original site.’ 16So this Sheshbazzar came and laid the foundation of the house of God in Jerusalem, and from that time until now it has been under construction, but it has not yet been completed.” 17Now, therefore, if it pleases the king, let a search be made of the royal archives in Babylon to see if King Cyrus did indeed issue a decree to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. Then let the king send us his decision in this matter. Footnotes: 2 a Jozadak is a variant of Jehozadak; see 1 Chronicles 6:14. 3 b Aramaic the governor beyond the River; also in verse 6 4 c LXX and Syriac; Aramaic Then we told them, 10 d Aramaic the names of the men at their heads 14 e Or palace Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezra 5 Summary Tattenai's Letter to Darius Verses 1–2 – Prophetic Stirring and Work Resumed Haggai and Zechariah call the returned exiles to get back to the unfinished temple project. Their words jolt Zerubbabel and Jeshua into action, and the builders pick up their tools right where the work had stopped nearly two decades earlier. Verses 3–5 – Officials Question the Builders Persian provincial governor Tattenai, his associate Shethar-Bozenai, and local officials show up almost immediately. They demand names and authorization, yet the eye of God is upon His people, so the confrontation does not halt construction while a report travels to the throne. Verses 6–17 – Letter to King Darius Tattenai drafts a careful letter to King Darius I. He recounts what he saw at the temple site, records the builders’ claim that Cyrus had issued the original decree, and respectfully asks the king to search the archives to verify the story. Ezra 5 presents a compelling account of a critical moment in the history of the Jewish people - the resumption of the construction of the second temple in Jerusalem. As external opposition threatened to halt the rebuilding, the divine intervention through prophets rekindled the spirit of the people, highlighting a account of resilience, obedience, and faith. Historical Setting • The first return under Cyrus happened in 538 BC (Ezra 1). Opposition stalled the temple in 536 BC (Ezra 4:24). • Ezra 5 opens in 520 BC, the second year of Darius I. The long delay reveals how discouragement can freeze progress until God sends a new spark. • The scene is Jerusalem’s ruined temple mount, still scarred from Nebuchadnezzar’s destruction in 586 BC. Key Figures • Haggai and Zechariah – prophets whose messages are recorded in their own books. • Zerubbabel – grandson of King Jehoiachin, appointed governor (Haggai 1:1). • Jeshua (Joshua) – high priest, descendant of Aaron. • Tattenai – governor of “Beyond the River,” the western Persian province that included Judah. • Shethar-Bozenai – likely Tattenai’s chief assistant. Prophetic Catalyst Haggai 1:4-8: “Is it a time for you yourselves to live in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? … Go up into the hills, bring down lumber, and build the house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored.” Zechariah 4:6-7: “‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of Hosts.” The prophets do not supply new building permits; they supply courage and clear marching orders that re-awaken hope in a weary people. Persian Administrative Background • Darius I ruled from 522–486 BC, stabilizing the empire after turbulent successions. • Satraps governed provinces; Tattenai’s inquiry shows routine oversight rather than outright hostility. • Persian policy often favored local temple support to secure loyalty (compare Cyrus’s cylinder). Ezra 5 fits that pattern: an investigation, not an automatic shutdown. Archaeological Notes • The “Cyrus Cylinder” (British Museum) confirms Cyrus’s habit of returning exiled peoples and restoring temples. • Persepolis administrative tablets mention Darius funding religious projects across the empire. • Persian-era bullae and YHD stamp impressions found around Jerusalem support the presence of an organized Judean community in this exact timeframe. • Excavations on the Temple Mount are limited, but Persian-period pottery has been recovered in surrounding fills, matching the era of Ezra 5. Connections to Other Scriptures • 2 Chronicles 36:22–23 – initial decree from Cyrus. • Isaiah 44:28; 45:13 – prophecy naming Cyrus long before his birth. • Jeremiah 29:10 – seventy-year exile timetable; God keeps His word. • Daniel 6 – under Darius the prophet also experiences a testing period, showing God’s protection in Persian courts. • Matthew 17:3 – Moses and Elijah stand with Jesus; prophetic voices continue to be God’s way of reigniting stalled missions, echoing Haggai and Zechariah’s role here. Literary Flow of Ezra 5–6 1. Prophetic word (5:1–2) 2. Political investigation (5:3–5) 3. Official correspondence (5:6–17) 4. Royal confirmation (6:1–12) 5. Project completion and celebration (6:13–22) The structure shows God working from both directions—within the community through prophecy and outside the community through foreign authority. Themes and Lessons • God Watches – “the eye of their God was upon the elders” (5:5). Not passive, but attentive, steering events. • Obedience Sparks Momentum – the people begin first, and the paperwork catches up later. • Courage Faces Scrutiny – names are given openly (5:4). Faith does not hide. • Scripture and Secular Records – divine decree (Haggai 1) and royal edict (Cyrus’s decree) align; truth can withstand archival search. • Leadership Matters – Zerubbabel and Jeshua step forward; prophets supply vision; governors ask questions but cannot derail God’s plan. Practical Takeaways for Today 1. When God stirs, delayed obedience delays blessing; immediate action invites His support. 2. External challenges may simply be God’s way of putting His fingerprints on the process—He turns the heart of kings (Proverbs 21:1). 3. Prophetic encouragement can reignite stalled dreams; seek and heed God-given words. 4. Documented faithfulness—letters, archives, records—can become testimonies for future generations, just as Ezra 5 preserves names and dates. Timeline Snapshot • 586 BC – Temple destroyed. • 538 BC – Cyrus decree; first return. • 536 BC – Foundation laid; opposition halts work. • 520 BC – Haggai and Zechariah speak; work resumes (Ezra 5). • 516 BC – Temple completed (Ezra 6:15). Closing Thought Ezra 5 reminds readers that the God who moves prophets also moves emperors. He sees, He nudges, He confirms—and His house rises from the rubble right on schedule. Connections to Additional Scriptures Haggai 1:13 Then Haggai, the messenger of the LORD, delivered the message of the LORD to the people: 'I am with you,' declares the LORD. This reinforces God's presence and encouragement. Zechariah 4:6 So he said to me, 'This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of Hosts. This highlights reliance on God's Spirit rather than human strength. Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. This assures us of God's faithfulness to complete His work in us. Teaching Points Divine Encouragement Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them (Ezra 5:1). The role of prophecy in encouraging and guiding God's people is crucial. God uses His messengers to inspire action and faithfulness. Obedience to God's Command Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, supporting them (Ezra 5:2). The leaders and people respond in obedience to God's command, demonstrating the importance of aligning actions with divine instructions. Facing Opposition with Faith At that time Tattenai, governor of Trans-Euphrates, and Shethar-Bozenai and their associates went to them and asked, 'Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?' (Ezra 5:3). Opposition is inevitable, but faith in God's authority and purpose provides strength to continue. God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs But the eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received (Ezra 5:5). God's oversight ensures that His plans are not thwarted by human opposition. Practical Applications Seek Encouragement from God's Word Just as the Israelites were encouraged by the prophets, we should seek encouragement and guidance from Scripture and godly counsel when facing challenges. Act in Obedience When God calls us to a task, we must respond with obedience, trusting that He will provide the necessary support and resources. Stand Firm in Faith When confronted with opposition, remember that God is in control. Stand firm in faith, knowing that His purposes will prevail. Trust in God's Timing God's plans unfold in His perfect timing. Be patient and trust that He is working behind the scenes, even when progress seems slow. People 1. Haggai A prophet who, along with Zechariah, encouraged the Jews in their work of rebuilding the temple. His name in Hebrew, חַגַּי (Chaggai), means "festive." 2. Zechariah Another prophet who supported the rebuilding efforts. He is identified as the son of Iddo. His name in Hebrew, זְכַרְיָה (Zekharyah), means "Yahweh remembers." 3. Zerubbabel The governor of Judah and a leader in the rebuilding of the temple. He was of the line of David and played a crucial role in the restoration efforts. His name in Hebrew, זְרֻבָּבֶל (Zerubbavel), means "seed of Babylon." 4. Jeshua The high priest who worked alongside Zerubbabel in the temple reconstruction. His name in Hebrew, יֵשׁוּעַ (Yeshua), is a form of Joshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 5. Tattenai The governor of the region beyond the River (Euphrates) who questioned the Jews about their authority to rebuild the temple. His role was more administrative and inquisitive. 6. Shethar-bozenai An official who accompanied Tattenai in questioning the Jews. His name is of Persian origin, reflecting the influence of the Persian Empire over the region. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location where the events of Ezra 5 take place. It is the city where the Jewish exiles have returned to rebuild the temple. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which is often associated with meanings related to "foundation of peace." 2. Babylon Babylon is mentioned as the place from which the Jewish exiles have returned. It was the center of the Babylonian Empire, where the Jews were held in captivity before being allowed to return to Jerusalem. The Hebrew root for Babylon is "בָּבֶל" (Bavel), which can mean "confusion" or "gate of the gods." 3. Beyond the River This term refers to the region west of the Euphrates River, which includes the province of Judah. It is a geographical designation used in the Persian Empire to describe territories west of the Euphrates. The original Hebrew phrase is "עֵבֶר נַהֲרָה" (Ever Nahara), meaning "beyond the river." Events 1. Prophets Haggai and Zechariah Prophesy "Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them." (Ezra 5:1) The prophets Haggai and Zechariah, inspired by God, deliver messages to the Jews, encouraging them to resume the rebuilding of the temple. The Hebrew root for "prophesied" (נבא, ^naba^) indicates speaking under divine inspiration. 2. Zerubbabel and Jeshua Begin Rebuilding "Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak arose and began to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, helping them." (Ezra 5:2) Zerubbabel and Jeshua take leadership in restarting the construction of the temple, with the support of the prophets. The Hebrew root for "began" (חלל, ^chalal^) suggests initiating or commencing an action. 3. Opposition from Tattenai and Others "At that time Tattenai the governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates came to them and asked, 'Who gave you the authority to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?'" (Ezra 5:3) Tattenai, the regional governor, along with others, questions the authority behind the rebuilding efforts, indicating political and administrative opposition. 4. Jews Respond to the Inquiry "They also asked, 'What are the names of the men who are constructing this building?'" (Ezra 5:4) The Jews are questioned further about the identities of those involved in the construction, suggesting an attempt to intimidate or halt the work. 5. God's Eye on the Elders "But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received." (Ezra 5:5) Despite the opposition, the divine protection and oversight ("eye of their God") ensure that the work continues unabated until a formal decision is made by King Darius. 6. Tattenai's Letter to King Darius "This is the text of the letter that Tattenai the governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates—the officials of that region—sent to King Darius." (Ezra 5:6) Tattenai and his associates draft a letter to King Darius, detailing the situation and seeking clarification on the legitimacy of the temple reconstruction. 7. Content of the Letter "The report they sent him read as follows: To King Darius: All peace." (Ezra 5:7) The letter begins with a formal greeting to King Darius, setting the stage for the detailed account of the events in Jerusalem. 8. Historical Context and Jewish Claim "We went to the house of the great God in the province of Judah. It is being built with large stones, and timber is being laid in the walls. This work is being carried out with diligence and is prospering in their hands." (Ezra 5:8) The letter describes the construction progress and the claim by the Jews that they are rebuilding the temple of the "great God," emphasizing the historical and religious significance. 9. Reference to Cyrus's Decree "They also said, 'In the first year of Cyrus king of Babylon, King Cyrus issued a decree to rebuild this house of God.'" (Ezra 5:13) The Jews assert that their authority to rebuild comes from a decree by King Cyrus, highlighting the legal and historical basis for their actions. 10. Request for Verification "Now if it pleases the king, let a search be conducted in the royal archives there in Babylon to determine if King Cyrus did in fact issue a decree to rebuild this house of God in Jerusalem. Then let the king send us his decision in this matter." (Ezra 5:17) Tattenai requests that King Darius verify the existence of Cyrus's decree, seeking a resolution based on historical records. Lessons from Ezra 5 1. The Power of Prophetic Encouragement In Ezra 5, we see the prophets Haggai and Zechariah stepping up to encourage the Israelites to resume the rebuilding of the temple. This reminds us of the power of encouragement in our own lives. As it is written, "Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah and Jerusalem, in the name of the God of Israel who was over them" (Ezra 5:1). When we speak life and truth into others, we can inspire them to pursue God's calling with renewed vigor. 2. Obedience to God's Command The Israelites' response to the prophets' encouragement was immediate obedience. "Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak set to work to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem" (Ezra 5:2). This teaches us the importance of acting on God's commands without delay. Obedience is a key component of faith, and it often leads to blessings and progress in our spiritual journey. 3. Leadership in Action Zerubbabel and Jeshua exemplify strong leadership by taking initiative and rallying the people to rebuild the temple. Their actions demonstrate that effective leaders are those who lead by example and inspire others to follow. As we lead in our own spheres, whether at home, work, or church, we should strive to be leaders who motivate and guide others toward fulfilling God's purposes. 4. Facing Opposition with Faith The rebuilding efforts faced opposition from local authorities, yet the Israelites continued their work. "But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, and they did not stop them until a report could go to Darius" (Ezra 5:5). This teaches us to persevere in the face of challenges, trusting that God is watching over us and will provide a way through any obstacles. 5. The Importance of Community Support The rebuilding of the temple was a communal effort, with everyone playing a part. This highlights the importance of community in achieving God's work. When we come together as a body of believers, we can accomplish great things for His kingdom. Let us not forsake gathering together and supporting one another in our spiritual endeavors. 6. God's Sovereignty in Government Affairs The chapter shows that God can influence the hearts of rulers and authorities. The letter to King Darius and his favorable response later in the story remind us that God is sovereign over all earthly powers. We can trust that He is in control, even when political situations seem uncertain or challenging. 7. The Role of Documentation and Accountability The Israelites kept records and communicated with the authorities, demonstrating the importance of documentation and accountability in our endeavors. This practice ensures transparency and can protect us from false accusations or misunderstandings. In our own lives, maintaining clear records and being accountable can help us stay organized and focused on our goals. 8. Faithful Witness to God's Work The Israelites' testimony about their history and God's faithfulness was a powerful witness to the authorities. "We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the house that was built many years ago" (Ezra 5:11). Sharing our testimonies of God's work in our lives can be a powerful tool for evangelism and encouragement to others. 9. Patience in God's Timing The rebuilding process was not immediate, and the Israelites had to wait for King Darius's response. This teaches us the value of patience and trusting in God's perfect timing. While we may desire quick results, God's plans often unfold in ways that require us to wait and trust in His wisdom. 10. The Assurance of God's Presence Throughout the chapter, we see that God's presence was with the Israelites as they worked. This assurance gave them the courage to continue despite opposition. In our own lives, we can find comfort and strength in knowing that God is always with us, guiding and supporting us as we pursue His will. As we read in Scripture, "The eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews" (Ezra 5:5), reminding us that His watchful care is ever-present. Topics 1. Prophetic Encouragement The chapter begins with the prophets Haggai and Zechariah encouraging the Jews to resume the rebuilding of the temple. "Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them" (Ezra 5:1). The Hebrew root for "prophesied" (נָבָא, naba) indicates speaking under divine inspiration. 2. Resumption of Construction Under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua, the rebuilding of the temple resumes. "Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak arose and began to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, helping them" (Ezra 5:2). The Hebrew root for "rebuild" (בָּנָה, banah) emphasizes the act of constructing or restoring. 3. Opposition from Tattenai Tattenai, the governor of the region, questions the authority of the Jews to rebuild the temple. "At that time Tattenai, governor of Trans-Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates went to them and asked, 'Who gave you the authority to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?'" (Ezra 5:3). The inquiry reflects political and administrative challenges faced by the Jews. 4. Jewish Response to Inquiry The Jewish leaders respond by explaining their actions and the decree of King Cyrus. "They also asked, 'What are the names of the men who are constructing this building?' But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received" (Ezra 5:4-5). The phrase "the eye of their God" (עֵין אֱלֹהֵיהֶם, ein Eloheihem) signifies divine oversight and protection. 5. Letter to King Darius Tattenai and his associates send a letter to King Darius, detailing the situation and requesting confirmation of the decree by Cyrus. "This is the text of the letter that Tattenai, the governor of Trans-Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates—the officials of Trans-Euphrates—sent to King Darius" (Ezra 5:6). The letter serves as a formal request for verification and support. 6. Historical Context and Justification The letter includes a historical account of the temple's destruction and the decree by Cyrus to rebuild it. "We questioned the elders and asked, 'Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?' We also asked for their names, so that we could write down the names of their leaders for your information" (Ezra 5:9-10). This reflects the importance of historical records and royal decrees in legitimizing the rebuilding efforts. Themes 1. Prophetic Encouragement The chapter begins with the prophets Haggai and Zechariah encouraging the Jews to resume the rebuilding of the temple. This highlights the theme of divine encouragement through prophecy. The Hebrew root for "prophesy" (נָבָא, naba) emphasizes speaking under divine inspiration. ^Ezra 5:1 :^ "Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them." 2. Leadership and Obedience Zerubbabel and Jeshua lead the people in rebuilding the temple, demonstrating the importance of godly leadership and obedience to God's commands. The Hebrew root for "arose" (קוּם, qum) signifies taking action. ^Ezra 5:2 :^ "Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak arose and began to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, helping them." 3. Opposition and Inquiry The local officials, led by Tattenai, question the authority of the Jews to rebuild the temple, reflecting the theme of opposition to God's work. The Aramaic root for "question" (שְׁאֵל, she'el) indicates a formal inquiry. ^Ezra 5:3 :^ "At that time Tattenai, governor of the region west of the Euphrates, and Shethar-bozenai and their associates came to them and asked, 'Who gave you the authority to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?'" 4. Divine Protection Despite the opposition, the eye of God was upon the elders of the Jews, ensuring that the work was not stopped. This theme underscores God's protective oversight. The Hebrew root for "eye" (עַיִן, ayin) often symbolizes watchfulness. ^Ezra 5:5 :^ "But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received." 5. Historical Validation The Jews appeal to historical records to validate their right to rebuild the temple, emphasizing the importance of historical continuity and divine mandate. The Aramaic root for "record" (דִּכְרָן, dikran) relates to remembrance or documentation. ^Ezra 5:13 :^ "However, in the first year of Cyrus king of Babylon, King Cyrus issued a decree to rebuild this house of God." Prayer Points Pray for Encouragement Ask God to provide encouragement through His Word and through fellow believers when facing challenges. Pray for Obedience Seek God's help to remain obedient to His calling, even when it is difficult. Pray for Strength in Opposition Request strength and courage to stand firm in faith when encountering resistance. Pray for Trust in God's Sovereignty Ask for a deeper trust in God's control over all circumstances and His perfect timing. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Ezra 5:1) How can we reconcile the prophetic claims of Haggai and Zechariah with the broader historical timeline of Persian dominance? 2. (Ezra 5:3) Is there any independent archaeological or historical evidence confirming Tattenai’s governorship and actions described here? 3. (Ezra 5:5) How can we verify or disprove the claim that a divine power protected the Jewish elders from interference? 4. (Ezra 5:13–15) Why does no extrabiblical source confirm the specific decree of Cyrus authorizing the temple’s rebuilding? 5. (Ezra 5:17) How do we resolve apparent inconsistencies between this passage’s account of Persian rule and known Persian chronology? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the themes of faith and obedience present in Ezra 5 apply to modern-day challenges? 2. What does the role of the prophets in inspiring Zerubbabel and Jeshua tell you about the importance of spiritual leadership? 3. Discuss a time when you faced opposition similar to the builders of the temple. How did you handle it? 4. How does the story of Ezra 5 encourage believers to continue their work in the face of opposition? 5. What role does prophecy play in the narrative of Ezra 5 and how does this apply to today's concept of divine guidance? 6. Why was it significant for the temple to be rebuilt despite the possible consequences from the Persian authorities? 7. How does the sovereignty of God manifest in the narrative of Ezra 5? 8. How would you react today if, like Tattenai and Shethar-Bozenai, you encountered something that you didn't understand or agree with? 9. How does the letter to Darius demonstrate the importance of truth and verification in resolving conflicts? 10. What can we learn from the courage and perseverance shown by Zerubbabel and Jeshua? 11. How does the interaction between the Jews and their foreign rulers in Ezra 5 reflect on international relations today? 12. How might the story be different if the Jews had given up on building the temple when they were questioned? 13. How does the story of the temple rebuilding inspire you to persist in your personal spiritual goals? 14. How can you apply the principles of leadership demonstrated by Zerubbabel and Jeshua in your own life? 15. How does the reference to past kings and decrees reflect on the importance of history and context in interpreting current situations? 16. How does the story in Ezra 5 help us understand the concept of divine timing? 17. Discuss the importance of collective action in achieving a shared goal, as demonstrated in Ezra 5. 18. How does Ezra 5 reflect the belief in divine protection in the face of human opposition? 19. How can you relate the verification of King Cyrus's decree to the importance of seeking truth in today's information age? 20. How can the story of Ezra 5 inspire you to act on God's calling despite facing obstacles or opposition? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions