Ezra 4:2

they approached Zerubbabel and the heads of the families, saying, "Let us build with you because, like you, we seek your God and have been sacrificing to Him since the time of King Esar-haddon of Assyria, who brought us here."

Study Bible

they approached Zerubbabel
The phrase "they approached Zerubbabel" indicates a direct action taken by the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin. Zerubbabel, a key leader in the Jewish community returning from Babylonian exile, is approached by those who are not part of the covenant community. The Hebrew root for "approached" (נָגַשׁ, nagash) often implies a sense of drawing near with a purpose, which in this context is to propose an alliance. Historically, Zerubbabel was a governor and a descendant of David, tasked with rebuilding the temple, making him a significant figure in the restoration of Jewish worship and identity.

and the heads of the families
This phrase refers to the leaders or elders of the Jewish families who returned from exile. The "heads of the families" were responsible for maintaining the spiritual and social order within the community. In the context of ancient Israel, family heads held significant authority and were often involved in decision-making processes. Their involvement in this encounter underscores the importance of the decision at hand, as it pertains to the community's religious and cultural integrity.

and said to them
The act of speaking to Zerubbabel and the family heads signifies an attempt to negotiate or influence. The Hebrew verb "said" (אָמַר, amar) is frequently used in the Old Testament to introduce dialogue, often carrying the weight of intention or persuasion. This dialogue is crucial as it sets the stage for the unfolding narrative of opposition and the Jewish leaders' response to external pressures.

Let us build with you
The offer "Let us build with you" appears to be a gesture of cooperation. However, from a conservative Christian perspective, this proposal is seen as a potential compromise of the Jewish community's purity and mission. The Hebrew word for "build" (בָּנָה, banah) is significant, as it not only refers to physical construction but also to the establishment of a community or legacy. The adversaries' offer to participate in the building of the temple could lead to syncretism, diluting the distinctiveness of Israel's worship of Yahweh.

for like you, we seek your God
This claim of seeking the same God is a critical point of contention. The phrase "for like you, we seek your God" suggests a shared religious interest. However, historical and scriptural context reveals that these adversaries, likely Samaritans, had a syncretistic form of worship, blending elements of Yahweh worship with pagan practices. The Hebrew word for "seek" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) implies a diligent pursuit, yet the sincerity of their pursuit is questionable, as their practices did not align with the covenantal requirements given to Israel.

and we have been sacrificing to Him
The claim "and we have been sacrificing to Him" attempts to establish religious credibility. Sacrificing, in the Hebrew context (זָבַח, zabach), was a central act of worship, signifying devotion and covenant relationship. However, the historical backdrop suggests that these sacrifices were not conducted according to the Mosaic Law, which required specific rituals and a consecrated priesthood. This discrepancy highlights the potential for religious compromise and the importance of maintaining doctrinal purity.

since the time of Esarhaddon king of Assyria, who brought us here
This historical reference to "Esarhaddon king of Assyria" provides insight into the origins of these adversaries. Esarhaddon, who reigned in the early 7th century BC, was known for relocating conquered peoples, including those who would become the Samaritans. The phrase "who brought us here" underscores their foreign origin and the resulting cultural and religious syncretism. From a conservative perspective, this background reinforces the need for the Jewish community to remain distinct and faithful to their covenant with God, resisting external influences that could lead them astray.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zerubbabel
The leader of the first group of Jewish exiles returning from Babylon to Jerusalem. He played a crucial role in the rebuilding of the temple.

2. The Heads of the Families of Israel
These were the leaders among the returning exiles who were responsible for overseeing the reconstruction efforts.

3. The Adversaries of Judah and Benjamin
These were the people who approached Zerubbabel and the heads of the families, claiming they wanted to help build the temple. Historically, they were likely Samaritans or other local inhabitants who had been settled in the region by the Assyrians.

4. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Jewish people, which had been destroyed by the Babylonians and was now being rebuilt by the returning exiles.

5. Esarhaddon, King of Assyria
The Assyrian king who had settled these adversaries in the land, as they claimed to have been worshiping the God of Israel since his time.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Partnerships
The leaders of Israel demonstrated discernment by rejecting the offer of help from those who did not share their faith fully. This teaches us the importance of being cautious about whom we partner with in spiritual endeavors.

Purity of Worship
The adversaries' claim to worship the same God highlights the need for purity in worship. We must ensure that our worship is not mixed with practices or beliefs that are contrary to Scripture.

Faithfulness in Adversity
The opposition faced by the Israelites serves as a reminder that faithfulness to God's commands often invites resistance. We are called to remain steadfast in our mission despite challenges.

Historical Context and Its Impact
Understanding the historical context of the adversaries helps us see the long-standing tensions and the importance of knowing our spiritual heritage and history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of Zerubbabel and the heads of the families in Ezra 4:2 demonstrate the importance of discernment in spiritual matters?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains pure and untainted by external influences, as seen in the response to the adversaries?

3. How does the opposition faced by the Israelites in rebuilding the temple parallel challenges we might face in our own spiritual journeys today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the historical context of the adversaries' claim to worship the same God, and how can this inform our understanding of religious syncretism?

5. How can the experiences of Zerubbabel and the returning exiles encourage us to remain faithful in the face of adversity and opposition in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 17
Provides background on how the Samaritans came to be in the land and their mixed worship practices, which included both the worship of Yahweh and other gods.

Nehemiah 4
Describes similar opposition faced by Nehemiah when rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, highlighting the ongoing resistance to the restoration efforts of the Jewish people.

1 Kings 18
Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal illustrates the dangers of syncretism, which is relevant to the adversaries' claim of worshiping the same God.