Ezra 5:13

In his first year, however, Cyrus king of Babylon issued a decree to rebuild this house of God.

Study Bible

In the first year of his reign
This phrase refers to the first year of Cyrus the Great's rule over Babylon, which began in 539 BC after he conquered the city. This marks a significant transition in the ancient Near East, as the Persian Empire replaced the Babylonian Empire. The timing is crucial because it fulfills the prophecy of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25:11-12) regarding the end of the Babylonian captivity after seventy years.

however, Cyrus king of Babylon
Cyrus is referred to as the king of Babylon, highlighting his authority over the region after his conquest. Historically, Cyrus is known for his policy of religious tolerance and his efforts to restore temples and religious practices in the territories he controlled. This aligns with the biblical narrative of him allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. His actions are seen as a fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 44:28), where Cyrus is named as the one who will facilitate the rebuilding of Jerusalem.

issued a decree
The decree issued by Cyrus is a pivotal moment in Jewish history, as it officially ends the Babylonian exile and permits the Jews to return to their homeland. This decree is recorded in Ezra 1:1-4 and is corroborated by the Cyrus Cylinder, an archaeological artifact that describes Cyrus's policies of repatriation and temple restoration. The decree is an example of God's sovereignty in using a pagan king to accomplish His purposes.

to rebuild this house of God
The "house of God" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which had been destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 BC. The rebuilding of the temple is central to Jewish worship and identity, as it represents the restoration of their covenant relationship with God. This act of rebuilding is also seen as a type of Christ, who referred to His body as the temple (John 2:19-21), symbolizing the ultimate restoration and reconciliation between God and humanity through His death and resurrection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Cyrus King of Babylon
Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Persian Empire, is noted for his decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. His leadership is seen as divinely appointed to fulfill God's purposes.

2. The Decree
This was a royal edict issued by Cyrus, which allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. It signifies a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the end of the Babylonian captivity.

3. The House of God
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which was central to Jewish worship and identity. Its reconstruction was crucial for the restoration of Jewish religious life.

4. Babylon
Although Cyrus is referred to as the king of Babylon, he was actually the king of Persia. This highlights the transition of power from Babylon to Persia and the fulfillment of God's plan through different empires.

5. The First Year of Cyrus
This marks the beginning of a new era for the Jewish people, as Cyrus's decree was issued shortly after he conquered Babylon in 539 BC.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in World Events
God can use anyone, even a pagan king, to accomplish His divine purposes. This reminds us that God is in control of history and can work through unexpected means.

The Importance of Obedience to God's Commands
The Jews' response to Cyrus's decree demonstrates the importance of seizing opportunities to obey God's commands, even when they come through unlikely sources.

Restoration and Renewal
The rebuilding of the temple symbolizes spiritual renewal and restoration. In our lives, God desires to rebuild and restore areas that have been broken or neglected.

Faithfulness to God's Promises
God's promise to restore His people was fulfilled through Cyrus's decree. This encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem bleak.

The Role of Prophecy in God's Plan
The fulfillment of prophecy through Cyrus's actions underscores the reliability of God's word and the importance of understanding biblical prophecy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the decree of Cyrus demonstrate God's sovereignty over world leaders and events?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness to His promises in our own lives, similar to His faithfulness to the Jews in Ezra 5:13?

3. What are some areas in our lives that need rebuilding or restoration, and how can we seek God's guidance in this process?

4. How can we be attentive to God's commands and opportunities to serve Him, even when they come from unexpected sources?

5. How does understanding the fulfillment of prophecy in the Bible strengthen our faith and trust in God's word today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 44:28 and 45:1
These passages prophesy Cyrus's role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the temple, demonstrating God's sovereignty and foreknowledge.

2 Chronicles 36:22-23
This passage parallels Ezra 5:13, providing additional context about Cyrus's decree and its significance for the Jewish people.

Daniel 9:2
Daniel's awareness of the prophecy concerning the seventy years of desolation connects to the timing of Cyrus's decree, showing the fulfillment of God's word.