Ezra 4:20

"I decreed, and search has been made, and it was found that this city has made insurrection against kings in the past, and that rebellion and revolts have been made in it."

Key Reflection

The Persian king, likely Darius I, is issuing a decree regarding the rebuilding of Jerusalem. He claims that through research, it was discovered that the city had a history of rebellion and insurrection against various kings, including those of Persia itself. This historical reference would have immediately struck a chord with the original audience, as they were well-aware of their city's tumultuous past, which included conflicts with neighboring states like Babylon and Persia, providing context for why such caution was necessary in allowing the rebuilding project to continue.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Mighty kings ... -If this reference can scarcely have been to David or Solomon (see marginal reference), of whom neither the Babylonian nor the Assyrian archives would be likely to have had any account - it would probably be to Menahem2 Kings 15:16and Josiah (2 Chronicles 34:6-7;2 Chronicles 35:18).

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