The offerings by the exiles refer to the contributions made by the Jewish people who returned to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity, as recorded in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. These offerings were significant in the restoration of the temple and the reestablishment of worship according to the Law of Moses.

Historical Context

After seventy years of exile in Babylon, a remnant of the Jewish people was allowed to return to Jerusalem under the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia. This return was prophesied by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 29:10) and was a fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land. The first group of exiles returned under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua the high priest, as detailed in Ezra 1-2.

Purpose of the Offerings

The primary purpose of the offerings by the exiles was to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem, which had been destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC. The temple was central to Jewish worship and identity, serving as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The offerings were also used to support the priests and Levites, who were responsible for conducting the temple services.

Types of Offerings

1. Freewill Offerings: Upon their return, the exiles gave freewill offerings to the house of God to support the rebuilding efforts. Ezra 2:68-69 states, "When they arrived at the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings toward the rebuilding of the house of God on its site. 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."

2. Daily Sacrifices: Once the altar was rebuilt, the exiles resumed the daily sacrifices as prescribed in the Law. Ezra 3:3 notes, "They set up the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings upon it to the LORD—both the morning and evening burnt offerings—even though they feared the people of the land."

3. Festival Offerings: The exiles also observed the Feast of Tabernacles and other appointed feasts, offering the required sacrifices. Ezra 3:4-5 records, "They also celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles in accordance with what is written, and they offered burnt offerings daily, based on the number specified by ordinance for each day. After that, they presented the regular burnt offerings, the New Moon offerings, and the offerings for all the appointed sacred feasts of the LORD, as well as all the freewill offerings brought to the LORD."

Significance

The offerings by the exiles were a demonstration of their commitment to reestablishing their covenant relationship with God. Despite their limited resources, the returning exiles prioritized the worship of God and the restoration of the temple. Their actions reflected a deep sense of gratitude and devotion, acknowledging God's faithfulness in bringing them back to their homeland.

Challenges and Opposition

The rebuilding efforts faced significant challenges, including opposition from surrounding peoples who sought to discourage and intimidate the exiles. Ezra 4:4-5 describes this opposition: "Then the people of the land set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to build. They hired counselors against them to frustrate their plans throughout the reign of Cyrus king of Persia and down to the reign of Darius king of Persia."

Despite these obstacles, the exiles persevered, encouraged by the prophetic ministries of Haggai and Zechariah, who urged them to continue the work (Ezra 5:1-2).

Legacy

The offerings by the exiles laid the foundation for the Second Temple, which would stand until its destruction in AD 70. This period of restoration was crucial in preserving the Jewish faith and identity, setting the stage for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who would fulfill the Law and the Prophets. The faithfulness of the exiles serves as an enduring example of dedication to God's purposes, even in the face of adversity.