Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire, is a significant figure in biblical history, particularly noted for his role in the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon. His reign is traditionally dated from 559 to 530 BC. Cyrus is mentioned in several books of the Bible, where he is depicted as a divinely appointed instrument for the fulfillment of God's purposes.

Biblical References:

1. Isaiah's Prophecy: The prophet Isaiah, writing over a century before Cyrus's rise to power, remarkably names him as the deliverer of the Jewish people. Isaiah 44:28 states, "who says of Cyrus, ‘He is My shepherd, and he will fulfill all My pleasure,’ saying of Jerusalem, ‘She will be rebuilt,’ and of the temple, ‘Your foundation will be laid.’" This prophecy highlights Cyrus's role in the restoration of Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple.

2. Decree to Rebuild the Temple: In the book of Ezra, Cyrus's decree is recorded, allowing the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Ezra 1:1-2 states, "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 issue a proclamation throughout his kingdom and to put it in writing: 'This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and has appointed me to build a house for Him at Jerusalem in Judah.'"

3. Role in Jewish History: Cyrus's decree not only allowed the Jews to return to their homeland but also provided them with the resources needed for the reconstruction of the temple. This act is seen as a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the end of the Babylonian captivity and the beginning of the Second Temple period.

4. Recognition of God's Sovereignty: Cyrus is unique among Gentile rulers in the Bible for his acknowledgment of the God of Israel. His recognition of God's sovereignty is evident in his decree, where he attributes his conquests and authority to the God of heaven.

5. Historical Context: Cyrus's policies of religious tolerance and restoration of local customs and temples were part of his broader strategy to stabilize and unify his vast empire. This approach is corroborated by the Cyrus Cylinder, an ancient artifact that records his conquests and policies, aligning with the biblical narrative of his decree.

6. Legacy: Cyrus's impact on Jewish history is profound, as he is credited with enabling the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. His actions are seen as a testament to God's control over history and His ability to use even foreign rulers to accomplish His divine purposes.

Cyrus's portrayal in the Bible as a chosen instrument of God underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and providence, illustrating how God can work through secular powers to achieve His will. His legacy is remembered not only in biblical history but also in the broader context of world history as a ruler who exemplified wisdom and benevolence.