Rebuilding the Temple: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Ezra 6

Executive Summary ✨

Ezra 6, focusing on the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, is a testament to God’s unwavering faithfulness and the perseverance of His people. Despite opposition and delays, the Temple’s construction, ordained by God and sanctioned by Persian kings, is finally completed. This chapter highlights the importance of obedience to divine decrees, the power of prayer, and the joy of communal worship. The dedication ceremony, marked by sacrifices and celebrations, foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ and the establishment of the new Temple, the Church. This chapter also reveals God’s providence in moving the hearts of earthly rulers to fulfill His divine purpose. Understanding Ezra 6 through a Coptic Orthodox lens reveals profound spiritual truths applicable to our lives today – particularly the need for unwavering faith in the face of adversity.

Ezra 6 tells a powerful story of faith, resilience, and divine providence. The rebuilding of the Temple was not just a construction project, but a spiritual journey, a testament to the enduring covenant between God and His people. We will explore the historical and spiritual significance of this chapter, drawing upon the wisdom of the Church Fathers and the rich traditions of the Coptic Orthodox faith, and examine ways to improve your website with website migration.

Commentary on Ezra 6

Ezra 6:1 (KJV): Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon.

This verse highlights the meticulous nature of God’s plan. Darius, the Persian king, acting as an instrument of divine will, orders a thorough search of the royal archives in Babylon. This search underscores the importance of historical accuracy and the preservation of God’s word. The decree of Cyrus, authorizing the Temple’s reconstruction, was not forgotten, but remained a powerful testament to God’s promise. This act also reveals that God uses even secular governments to accomplish His plans.

Spiritual Application: We too must be diligent in searching for truth and understanding God’s will in our lives. This requires careful study of Scripture and a commitment to seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit.

Ezra 6:2 (KJV): And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll, and therein was a record thus written:

Achmetha (Ecbatana), the ancient capital of Media, held the royal archives. The discovery of Cyrus’s decree in such a remote location emphasizes God’s ability to preserve His word even in the most unlikely places. The roll itself, a tangible artifact, confirms the historical basis of the Temple’s rebuilding.

Spiritual Application: God’s word is accessible to all who seek it, regardless of their location or circumstances. We must trust that He will guide us to the truth.

Ezra 6:3-5 (KJV): In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king’s house: And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem, every one to his place, and place them in the house of God.

This passage reiterates the specifics of Cyrus’s original decree. The dimensions of the Temple are outlined, emphasizing its significance as a sacred space. The return of the Temple vessels, stolen by Nebuchadnezzar, signifies the restoration of God’s glory. The provision of funds from the royal treasury underscores God’s blessing upon the project.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria comments on the rebuilding of the Temple as a foreshadowing of the Church: “Οὕτω καὶ τὴν ἐκκλησίαν οἰκοδομεῖ ὁ θεός, θεμέλια τιθέμενος τοὺς ἀποστόλους.” (Outō kai tēn ekklēsian oikodomei ho theos, themelia tithemenos tous apostolous.) “Thus, God builds the Church, laying the apostles as its foundation.” (Commentary on Isaiah, PG 70:140).

Spiritual Application: Just as the Temple was meticulously built according to God’s plan, we must strive to build our lives on the firm foundation of faith, following His commandments and seeking His guidance in all that we do.

Ezra 6:6-12 (KJV): Now therefore, Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and your companions the Apharsachites, which are beyond the river, be ye far from thence: Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place. Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king’s goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered. And that which they have need of, both young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests which are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail: That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savours unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons. Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this. And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.

Darius’s decree reinforces Cyrus’s original edict and commands the local officials to actively support the Temple’s construction. The king even provides resources for sacrifices and prayers on behalf of himself and his family. The stern warning against anyone who would hinder the project underscores the divine protection surrounding the Temple. This section shows how God can change the hearts of rulers to further His purpose.

Spiritual Application: We must pray for our leaders, that they may be guided by God’s wisdom and act in accordance with His will. We should also remember that God protects His Church and will ultimately triumph over all opposition.

Ezra 6:13-15 (KJV): Then Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily. And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia. And this house was finished on the third day of the month Adar, which was in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king.

Obedience to God’s commands leads to prosperity. The elders of the Jews diligently continued the work, and the Temple was completed in the sixth year of Darius’s reign. The prophetic ministry of Haggai and Zechariah played a crucial role in encouraging and guiding the people. The Temple was built not only according to God’s commandment but also according to the decrees of Persian kings, illustrating the confluence of divine and human agency.

Spiritual Application: We must be obedient to God’s word and listen to the guidance of His prophets and spiritual leaders. Our perseverance in faith will lead to spiritual blessings and the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Ezra 6:16-18 (KJV): And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with joy, And offered at the dedication of this house of God an hundred bullocks, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs; and for a sin offering for all Israel, twelve he goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. And they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses.

The dedication of the Temple was a time of great rejoicing. Sacrifices were offered to God, and the priests and Levites were organized according to the Mosaic Law. This section emphasizes the importance of worship, thanksgiving, and adherence to tradition.

Spiritual Application: We must approach worship with joy and gratitude, offering our hearts and lives as a sacrifice to God. We should also respect and uphold the traditions of the Church, which have been passed down to us from the apostles.

Ezra 6:19-22 (KJV): And the children of the captivity kept the passover upon the fourteenth day of the first month. For the priests and the Levites were purified together, all of them were pure, and killed the passover for all the children of the captivity, and for their brethren the priests, and for themselves. And the children of Israel, which were come again out of the captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the Lord God of Israel, did eat, And kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with gladness: for the Lord had made them joyful, and turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.

The celebration of the Passover marks a new beginning for the Israelites. The purification of the priests and Levites signifies a renewed commitment to holiness. The participation of those who had separated themselves from pagan practices underscores the importance of spiritual purity. The joy experienced by the people reflects God’s favor and blessing.

Spiritual Application: We must strive for spiritual purity and separate ourselves from the sinful practices of the world. The Lord will fill our hearts with joy and strengthen us to serve Him faithfully.

The Significance of the Temple 💡

The Temple in Jerusalem held immense significance for the Jewish people. It was not merely a building, but the earthly dwelling place of God, the center of their religious and national identity. The rebuilding of the Temple represented the restoration of their relationship with God and the fulfillment of His promises. Here are some key reflections:

• A Place of Worship: The Temple was the primary location for offering sacrifices, prayers, and praise to God.
• A Symbol of God’s Presence: The Holy of Holies, the innermost sanctuary, symbolized God’s presence among His people.
• A Center of Unity: The Temple brought together Jews from all over the world, fostering a sense of community and shared identity.
• A Foreshadowing of Christ: The Temple and its rituals foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant.
• A Reflection of Heaven: The Temple’s beauty and grandeur reflected the glory of God’s heavenly dwelling.
• A Reminder of God’s Covenant: The Temple served as a constant reminder of God’s covenant with His people and His faithfulness to His promises.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about the significance of Ezra 6 in the context of Coptic Orthodox theology:

• Q: Why is the rebuilding of the Temple so important from a Coptic Orthodox perspective?

  A: The rebuilding of the Temple is significant because it foreshadows the coming of Christ and the establishment of the Church, the true Temple of God. It reminds us of God’s faithfulness in restoring His people and fulfilling His promises. It also teaches us about the importance of obedience and perseverance in our spiritual lives.

• Q: How does the Coptic Orthodox Church view the role of secular rulers in fulfilling God’s purposes, as seen in Ezra 6?

  A: The Coptic Orthodox Church recognizes that God can use even secular rulers to accomplish His divine purposes. We are called to pray for our leaders and to recognize that their authority ultimately comes from God. While we do not endorse ungodly actions, we acknowledge that God can work through unexpected channels to bring about His will.

• Q: What spiritual lessons can we draw from the dedication of the Temple in Ezra 6?

  A: The dedication of the Temple teaches us about the importance of offering ourselves as a living sacrifice to God, approaching worship with joy and gratitude, and adhering to the traditions of the Church. It also reminds us of the need for spiritual purification and separation from the sinful practices of the world.

• Q: How does the Passover celebration in Ezra 6 relate to the Coptic Orthodox celebration of Pascha (Easter)?

  A: The Passover celebration in Ezra 6 foreshadows the ultimate Passover, the death and resurrection of Christ, which we celebrate during Pascha. Just as the Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt, we are freed from the bondage of sin through Christ’s sacrifice. The Passover meal also points to the Eucharist, the Holy Communion, in which we partake of Christ’s body and blood.

Conclusion ✨

Ezra 6 offers profound insights into God’s faithfulness, the importance of obedience, and the joy of worship. The rebuilding of the Temple was not merely a historical event, but a spiritual paradigm for our own lives. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are called to build our lives on the foundation of faith, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to offer ourselves as a living sacrifice to God. Let us strive to emulate the example of the Israelites, who, with faith and determination, rebuilt the Temple and restored their relationship with God. Let us strive to reflect this story in our marketing efforts with email marketing.

Tags

Ezra 6, Temple Rebuilding, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic Theology, Old Testament, Haggai, Zechariah, Darius, Cyrus, Jerusalem

Meta Description

A Coptic Orthodox commentary on Ezra 6, exploring the spiritual significance of the rebuilding of the Temple and its application to our lives today.