Ezra 6:22

For seven days they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread with joy, because the LORD had made them joyful and turned the heart of the king of Assyria toward them to strengthen their hands in the work on the house of the God of Israel.

Study Bible

For seven days they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread with joy
The Feast of Unleavened Bread is a significant Jewish festival that follows Passover, commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their hasty departure, which did not allow time for their bread to rise. This seven-day festival is marked by the removal of leaven from homes, symbolizing the removal of sin and corruption. The joy experienced by the Israelites during this time reflects their gratitude for God's deliverance and provision. The observance of this feast after the completion of the temple signifies a renewal of covenant faithfulness and a return to proper worship practices.

because the LORD had made them joyful
The joy of the Israelites is attributed directly to the LORD, indicating divine intervention and blessing. This joy is not merely a human emotion but a spiritual state granted by God, reflecting His favor and presence among His people. The rebuilding of the temple and the successful observance of the feast are seen as acts of divine grace, reinforcing the idea that true joy comes from a relationship with God.

and turned the heart of the king of Assyria toward them
The reference to the "king of Assyria" is historically intriguing, as the Assyrian Empire had long been replaced by the Babylonian and then the Persian Empires by the time of Ezra. This phrase likely refers to the Persian king, Darius, who ruled over the former Assyrian territories. God's ability to influence the heart of a foreign king underscores His sovereignty over all nations and rulers. This divine intervention echoes Proverbs 21:1, which states that the king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, highlighting God's control over political affairs to fulfill His purposes.

to strengthen their hands in the work on the house of the God of Israel
The strengthening of their hands signifies empowerment and encouragement to complete the temple reconstruction. This phrase emphasizes the importance of divine support in accomplishing God's work. The "house of the God of Israel" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people. The successful completion of the temple is a fulfillment of prophecy and a testament to God's faithfulness in restoring His people after the Babylonian exile. This work also prefigures the ultimate temple, Jesus Christ, who embodies God's presence with humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The Jewish people who returned from Babylonian exile and were involved in the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.

2. The Feast of Unleavened Bread
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Exodus from Egypt, celebrated with joy and gratitude.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who intervenes in the affairs of nations and individuals.

4. The King of Assyria
Likely referring to Darius I of Persia, who ruled over the former Assyrian territories and supported the rebuilding of the temple.

5. The House of God
The temple in Jerusalem, central to Jewish worship and identity.

Teaching Points

The Power of Divine Intervention
God can change the hearts of leaders and authorities to fulfill His purposes. Trust in His sovereignty over all circumstances.

The Importance of Joy in Worship
Joy is a vital component of worship and celebration. Reflect on how joy in the Lord can transform our spiritual practices and daily lives.

The Significance of Obedience and Tradition
Observing God-given traditions like the Feast of Unleavened Bread can deepen our faith and understanding of His work in history.

Community and Support in God's Work
The support from unexpected sources, like the king of Assyria, highlights the importance of community and collaboration in fulfilling God's work.

Remembering God's Faithfulness
Celebrations like the Feast of Unleavened Bread serve as reminders of God's past faithfulness, encouraging us to trust Him for the future.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the joy experienced by the Israelites during the Feast of Unleavened Bread challenge or inspire your current approach to worship?

2. In what ways have you seen God change the hearts of those in authority to support His work in your life or community?

3. How can the observance of biblical traditions and festivals enhance your spiritual journey and understanding of God's faithfulness?

4. Reflect on a time when unexpected support helped you in your spiritual walk. How can you be a source of support for others in their faith journey?

5. How does the concept of joy as a strength, as seen in Nehemiah 8:10, apply to your current life circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The original institution of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, highlighting its historical and spiritual significance.

Proverbs 21:1
Illustrates how God can change the hearts of kings, aligning with how He influenced the king of Assyria.

Philippians 4:4
Encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord always, similar to the joy experienced by the Israelites.

2 Chronicles 30:21
Another instance of the celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread with great joy, showing continuity in worship practices.

Nehemiah 8:10
Emphasizes the joy of the Lord as a source of strength, paralleling the joy experienced by the Israelites.