Ezra | Chapter Summaries + Study QuestionsSample

EZRA 3

THE ALTAR + TEMPLE FOUNDATION REBUILT

Once the Israelites arrive in Jerusalem, Zerubbabel and the priests begin rebuilding the altar to make burnt offerings. The returned exiles follow the law of Moses in their sacrificial offerings and maintain the celebration of annual feasts and festivals. These specific laws and rituals are recorded in Leviticus 1 and 23.

The Israelites continue to bring offerings to the temple and use the money given by King Cyrus to start rebuilding the temple. Once they complete the foundation, there is celebration and music. God is praised for His steadfast love towards Israel.

Although many Israelites celebrate the new foundation, the elders who had seen the previous temple wept. Although the reason for the mourning was unknown, it is possible the new temple did not compare to the splendor of Solomon’s temple or because they are remembering the suffering and grief caused by the destruction of the previous temple. The sounds of their weeping are drowned out by the great shouting and commotion surrounding the new temple.

STUDY QUESTIONS

Read Ezra 3:10–13. How did the Israelites respond when the temple’s foundation was laid? How did the response of the older generation differ from the response of the younger generation?