Ezra 2:69

According to their ability, they gave to the treasury for this work 61,000 darics of gold, 5,000 minas of silver, and 100 priestly garments.

Study Bible

According to their ability
This phrase highlights the principle of giving based on one's capacity, a theme consistent throughout Scripture. The Hebrew root here suggests a voluntary and proportional giving, reflecting the heart's willingness rather than compulsion. This mirrors the New Testament teaching in 2 Corinthians 8:12, where the emphasis is on the readiness of the heart and the proportionate nature of giving. Historically, this reflects the communal spirit of the returning exiles, who prioritized the rebuilding of the temple despite their limited resources.

they gave
The act of giving here is significant, as it demonstrates the commitment and dedication of the Israelites to the restoration of their spiritual center. The Hebrew verb used implies a deliberate and purposeful action, underscoring the importance of intentionality in offerings. This giving was not merely a financial transaction but a spiritual act of worship and obedience to God.

to the treasury for this work
The treasury was a designated place for collecting contributions, emphasizing the organized and communal effort in the temple's reconstruction. The phrase "for this work" indicates a specific purpose, highlighting the focused mission of rebuilding the temple. This reflects the broader biblical principle of stewardship, where resources are allocated for God's work and glory.

61,000 darics of gold
The daric was a gold coin used during the Persian Empire, named after King Darius. Its mention here provides historical context, indicating the influence of Persian culture and economy on the Jewish exiles. The substantial amount of gold reflects the sacrificial nature of the giving, as gold was a precious and valuable commodity. This generosity underscores the priority placed on the temple's restoration.

5,000 minas of silver
A mina was a unit of weight and currency, and the mention of silver alongside gold indicates the diversity of contributions. Silver, often used in temple furnishings and rituals, symbolizes purity and redemption in biblical symbolism. The significant amount of silver given further illustrates the collective commitment to the temple project.

and 100 priestly garments
Priestly garments were essential for the proper conduct of temple services, symbolizing holiness and the distinct role of the priesthood. The provision of these garments indicates a concern for maintaining the sanctity and order of worship. This reflects the broader biblical theme of preparing and equipping God's people for service, as seen in the detailed descriptions of priestly attire in Exodus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Returnees
The people who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem. They were committed to rebuilding the temple and restoring worship.

2. The Treasury
The collection of resources and funds dedicated to the rebuilding of the temple. It symbolizes the collective effort and sacrifice of the community.

3. Darics and Minas
Units of currency used during this period. The daric was a gold coin, and the mina was a weight of silver. These represent the substantial financial contributions made by the people.

4. Priestly Garments
Special clothing for the priests, signifying the restoration of proper worship and religious practices.

5. The Work
The rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Jewish people, symbolizing their spiritual renewal and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

Generosity According to Ability
God values the heart behind the gift more than the amount. Each person gave according to their ability, showing that God honors both large and small contributions when given willingly.

Community Effort in God's Work
The rebuilding of the temple was a collective effort. This teaches us the importance of unity and collaboration in fulfilling God's purposes.

Sacrificial Giving
The substantial contributions of gold, silver, and garments reflect a sacrificial spirit. We are called to give in a way that reflects our trust in God's provision.

Restoration of Worship
The focus on priestly garments and the temple highlights the importance of restoring and maintaining proper worship. Our giving should support the work of the church and the spread of the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of giving in Ezra 2:69 challenge your current approach to financial stewardship and generosity?

2. In what ways can you contribute to the "work" of your local church or community, similar to the returnees' contributions to the temple?

3. Reflect on a time when you gave sacrificially. How did that experience impact your faith and trust in God?

4. How can the principle of giving "according to their ability" be applied in other areas of your life, such as time and talents?

5. Compare the giving in Ezra 2:69 with the giving described in 2 Corinthians 8:3-5. What similarities and differences do you observe, and how can these insights inform your own practice of generosity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Chronicles 29:6-9
This passage describes the generous giving of the Israelites for the building of the first temple under King David. It highlights a similar spirit of willingness and generosity.

2 Corinthians 8:3-5
Paul commends the Macedonian churches for giving according to their ability and even beyond, reflecting the same principle of sacrificial giving seen in Ezra 2:69.

Exodus 35:21-29
The Israelites' contributions for the construction of the Tabernacle demonstrate a heart stirred by God to give willingly, paralleling the giving in Ezra.