The term "Returned Exiles" refers to the Jewish people who returned to the land of Judah following the Babylonian captivity, a pivotal event in Jewish history. This return is chronicled primarily in the books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, and Zechariah, and it marks a significant period of restoration and renewal for the Jewish nation.

Historical Context

The Babylonian captivity began in 586 BC when Nebuchadnezzar II, king of Babylon, destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple, taking many Jews into exile. This period of exile lasted approximately 70 years, fulfilling the prophecy given by Jeremiah: "This whole land will become a desolate wasteland, and these nations will serve the king of Babylon for seventy years" (Jeremiah 25:11).

The return of the exiles was initiated by the decree of Cyrus the Great, king of Persia, in 538 BC. Cyrus had conquered Babylon and allowed the Jewish people to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple. This decree is recorded in Ezra 1:2-3: "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. Whoever among you belongs to His people, may his God be with him, and may he go to Jerusalem in Judah and build the house of the LORD, the God of Israel. He is the God who is in Jerusalem.'"

Key Figures

1. Zerubbabel: A descendant of David, Zerubbabel led the first group of exiles back to Jerusalem. He played a crucial role in laying the foundation of the Second Temple. His leadership is highlighted in the book of Ezra and the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah.

2. Joshua the High Priest: Serving alongside Zerubbabel, Joshua was instrumental in the spiritual restoration of the people. He is mentioned in the visions of Zechariah, where he is depicted as a symbol of the coming Messiah (Zechariah 3:8).

3. Ezra: A scribe and priest, Ezra led a second group of exiles back to Jerusalem. He was dedicated to teaching the Law of Moses and restoring the religious practices of the Jewish people. Ezra's reforms are detailed in the book bearing his name.

4. Nehemiah: Appointed as governor of Judah, Nehemiah led the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, providing security and stability for the returned exiles. His leadership and reforms are recorded in the book of Nehemiah.

Challenges and Reforms

The returned exiles faced numerous challenges, including opposition from surrounding peoples, internal strife, and the need to reestablish religious and social order. The rebuilding of the Temple was met with resistance, as described in Ezra 4:4-5: "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 challenges, the exiles, under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Joshua, completed the Temple in 516 BC. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah encouraged the people to persevere in their efforts, emphasizing the importance of the Temple as the center of worship and the presence of God among His people.

Ezra's return brought about significant religious reforms, including the public reading of the Law and the renewal of the covenant. Nehemiah's leadership further solidified these reforms, as he addressed social injustices and reinforced the observance of the Sabbath and other laws.

Significance

The return of the exiles and the rebuilding of the Temple and Jerusalem were crucial in reestablishing Jewish identity and religious practices. This period laid the foundation for the Jewish community that would exist during the time of Jesus Christ. The faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to restore His people is a central theme throughout these events, demonstrating His sovereignty and covenantal love.