The rebuilding of the altar and the resumption of sacrifices mark a significant moment in the post-exilic period of Israel's history, as recorded in the Book of Ezra. This event symbolizes the restoration of worship and the reestablishment of the covenant relationship between God and His people following the Babylonian exile.

Historical Context

After the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC, the Israelites were taken into captivity by the Babylonians. This period of exile lasted approximately 70 years, during which the temple in Jerusalem lay in ruins. The Persian conquest of Babylon under King Cyrus the Great in 539 BC set the stage for the return of the Jewish exiles. Cyrus issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4).

Rebuilding the Altar

Upon their return, the first priority for the Jewish leaders, including Zerubbabel and Jeshua the high priest, was to reestablish the altar of the God of Israel. Ezra 3:2-3 states, "Then Jeshua son of Jozadak and his fellow priests, along with Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and his associates, began to build the altar of the God of Israel to offer burnt offerings on it, as it is written in the Law of Moses the man of God. They set up the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings upon it to the LORD—both the morning and evening burnt offerings—despite their fear of the peoples of the land."

The rebuilding of the altar was crucial for several reasons. It was a tangible sign of the renewal of worship and obedience to the Mosaic Law. The altar served as the focal point for sacrifices, which were central to the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. The resumption of sacrifices signified repentance, atonement, and a desire to seek God's favor and guidance.

Resuming Sacrifices

The resumption of sacrifices began with the Feast of Tabernacles, as described in Ezra 3:4-6 : "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 sacrifices for all the appointed sacred feasts of the LORD, as well as all the freewill offerings brought to the LORD. On the first day of the seventh month, they began to offer burnt offerings to the LORD, even though the foundation of the temple of the LORD had not been laid."

The observance of the Feast of Tabernacles, along with other appointed feasts and offerings, demonstrated the community's commitment to restoring the religious practices prescribed in the Torah. This act of worship was a declaration of faith and trust in God's promises, despite the challenges and opposition they faced from surrounding peoples.

Significance

The rebuilding of the altar and the resumption of sacrifices were pivotal in reestablishing the identity and spiritual life of the Jewish community. It was a step toward the full restoration of the temple, which would be completed later under the leadership of Zerubbabel. This event also foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who would fulfill the sacrificial system and establish a new covenant through His death and resurrection.

The dedication and faithfulness of the returning exiles serve as an enduring example of the importance of worship, obedience, and reliance on God's promises, even in the face of adversity.