Ezra 3:3

"Then Jeshua the son of Jozadak stood up with his brothers the priests and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel and his relatives, and built 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."

Key Reflection

Ezra 3:3 describes a significant moment in the return of Jewish exiles to rebuild their temple and restore worship after the Babylonian captivity. The text highlights the collaborative effort between leaders like Jeshua, a descendant of Aaron, and Zerubbabel, from the royal line of David, symbolizing unity between religious and civil authorities. This act of building an altar, as prescribed by the Torah (Deuteronomy 12:5), underscores their commitment to adhere strictly to divine law, even in the face of local opposition due to the fear and hostility of surrounding peoples.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Upon his bases -They restored the old altar of burnt-offerings, which stood directly in front of the temple-porch, upon the old foundation. This became apparent on the clearing away of the ruins, and on a careful examination of the site.

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