Definition: Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied unto the Jews that [were] in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, [even] unto them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 5:1. It’s a pretty important starting point in biblical history! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is saying: “The people of Judah and Jerusalem were receiving messages – prophecies – from a group of prophets, including Haggai and Zechariah – urging them to remember and worship God. They were telling them to focus on God and his laws.” Let's unpack it further: "Ezra 5:1" : This is the title of the verse itself - it tells us where this message came from. “Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet, and Zechariah the son of Iddo…” : This lists the people who were delivering the message. They're a group of leaders and messengers called prophets – people who spoke for God to others. Haggai and Zechariah were specific names mentioned. “…prophesized unto the Jews…” : “Prophesized” means they announced or told something important. “unto the Jews” refers specifically to the Jewish people living in Judah (modern-day Israel and Palestine). “…that [were] in Judah and Jerusalem…” : This tells us where these Jews were located - in the area of modern-day Judah, which was a region that had been experiencing problems. “…in the name of the God of Israel…” : This is crucial! The message wasn't just any old talk. It was delivered with the recognition that they were speaking for God . This emphasizes that it was a divine message – a message from God Himself. In short, this verse establishes that there were warnings and messages being sent to the Jewish people in Judah, urging them to return to their faith and worship God. Why is this important? This verse sets the stage for a period of crisis in Israel's history. It’s a reminder of a time when the Jewish people were facing challenges, and it highlights the importance of listening to God's guidance. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific historical event?

Definition: We asked their names also, to certify thee, that we might write the names of the men that [were] the chief of them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 5:10. It's a really interesting piece of history! Here’s what it means in plain terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about recording the leaders of a group of people – likely a community or tribe – after a period of upheaval and perhaps some conflict. Let’s unpack it step-by-step: “We asked their names also…” : This means the Jewish people were asking for the names of the important people within this group. “…to certify thee…” : "Certify" means to verify or confirm something. “Thee” is a formal way of saying "you." So, they were asking you – the storyteller – to officially and reliably name these leaders. “that we might write the names of the men that [were] the chief of them.” : This is the core of it. "The chief of them" means the most important or influential people in the group. The Hebrew word “men” refers to individuals, and "chief" means a leader. So, they were trying to get a list of the top leaders so that they could write down their names on a scroll (which was a common way to record things). In short: The Jewish people were asking you to make a list of the most important people in this group, so they could keep track of who was leading and making decisions. Historical Context - A Little Bit More Depth: This verse is part of a longer story that happened after the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. The Jewish people were dealing with a period called “the Exile.” After the Babylonian exile, there was a need to rebuild the temple and re-establish their religious traditions. This verse is a record of how they started documenting the leaders to ensure things were properly organized during this time. Does that make sense? Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories?

Definition: And thus they returned us answer, saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was builded these many years ago, which a great king of Israel builded and set up.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 5:11. It’s a really important piece of history! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, they are saying: “We are the people who were responsible for rebuilding a temple that had been abandoned for many years. We're restoring it to its former glory and continuing the work God started.” Let’s unpack it further: “And thus they returned…” – This is a formal acknowledgment of their action. “…saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth…” - This means they were dedicated to serving God, not just humans. They believed in His authority and guidance. "Heaven and Earth" refers to God’s entire creation – everything that exists. "...and build the house that was built these many years ago..." - They are talking about a specific temple that had been destroyed during a time of chaos and rebellion. This temple was incredibly important, and it symbolized God's covenant with Israel. "...which a great king of Israel builded and set up." – This is the key part! It tells us that this people were responsible for rebuilding this temple. The King of Israel (a powerful ruler) had started it long ago, and they are continuing to work on it, restoring it to its original purpose. In short, it’s a story about restoration, responsibility, and the importance of honoring God’s creation. Context is important: Ezra 5 tells us that this happened after a period of rebuilding was stopped and then restarted by these people. It's a narrative of repentance and renewed faith within Israel. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail?

Definition: But after that our fathers had provoked the God of heaven unto wrath, he gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, the Chaldean, who destroyed this house, and carried the people away into Babylon.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 5:12. It’s a really important story about a powerful, destructive event in ancient Jerusalem. Here's a simplified explanation: Basically, it says that after God’s people had angered him (caused trouble), he sent Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, to destroy their temple and force them to leave. Let’s unpack that a little further: “But after that our fathers had provoked the God of heaven…” This means that the people who built the temple in Jerusalem had disobeyed God. They were acting in ways that angered him – perhaps through selfishness, pride, or disrespecting his will. Think of it like a really big, serious mistake. “…he gave them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon…” This is where it gets dramatic. Nebuchadnezzar was a powerful ruler in Babylon (a large city-state in Mesopotamia – now part of Iraq). He saw this as an opportunity to punish the people who had angered God. “…the Chaldean, who destroyed this house…” "Chaldean" is a Greek word that means "judge" or "one who judges." So, Nebuchadnezzar was essentially giving the judgment – he was destroying the temple. "...and carried the people away into Babylon.” This is the most crucial part. The people were forced to leave Jerusalem and be taken to Babylon as prisoners. It was a very harsh punishment. In short, this verse describes a time of intense anger and punishment from God, leading to a devastating event – the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. Important Context: This story is part of a larger narrative about exile and the downfall of Israel. It’s a reminder that even when people are angry with God, He can ultimately be merciful and restore things. --- Do you want me to elaborate on any specific aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "temple" was in ancient times? Discuss the significance of Babylon at the time?

Definition: But in the first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon [the same] king Cyrus made a decree to build this house of God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse! It’s a really important one from the Book of Ezra. Here's what it means in plain language: Basically, it says that Cyrus, the king of Babylon, declared that he was going to build a temple for God. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Ezra 5:13” : This is the verse itself. It's from a specific passage in the Hebrew Bible (the Old Testament). “But in the first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon…” : This tells us who made this decree. It’s about Cyrus, who ruled over Babylon – a very large and powerful city in ancient Persia. “…the same king Cyrus…” : This reinforces that he was the king making the decision. “made a decree…” : He issued a formal order or plan. “…to build this house of God.” : This is the key part! “House of God” refers to a temple – a place where people could worship and connect with God. So, what's the significance? This verse points to a really significant event in history: Cyrus’s decision to rebuild a temple in Babylon after a long period of neglect. It was a symbolic act of restoring religious faith and bringing back a sense of reverence for God in that city. Why is this important? It shows Cyrus's leadership: He was taking responsibility for rebuilding something important – a place for worship. It’s part of a larger story: It’s connected to the idea of rebuilding and restoration throughout history, especially when faith is threatened. Do you want me to explain anything in more detail or perhaps explore what this verse might mean within the context of the Bible as a whole?

Definition: And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that [was] in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto [one], whose name [was] Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor;

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ezra 5:14. It’s a pretty complex passage, but here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: This verse describes a significant event that happened in ancient Jerusalem during the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar. Here’s what it means: Nebuchadnezzar's Raid: Nebuchadnezzar was a powerful king from Babylon who conquered much of the Middle East. He wanted to plunder and loot the treasures within the Temple in Jerusalem, which was a very important religious center for Jews. The Temple’s Loot: He sent his forces to steal valuable items – gold, silver, and precious stones – from the temple. Bringing Items to Babylon: The Jewish people (specifically, the priests) were tasked with bringing these stolen treasures into a new temple in Babylon. It was a way for them to show off their wealth and power. Now, let’s look at the key parts of the verse: "The vessels also of gold and silver..." : This refers to the decorations, altar stones, and other things inside the temple that were valuable. "...of the house of God..." : This is a general term for the Jewish religious community. "...Nebuchadnezzar took out..." : Nebuchadnezzar was the one who carried these items away. "...into the temple of Babylon..." : He brought them into the new temple in Babylon, which was a significantly larger and more opulent building. "...those did Cyrus the king take out..." : This is crucial. Cyrus the King (a ruler from Persia) was also involved in this act. He was the one who took these items to Babylon. "...and they were delivered unto [one], whose name [was] Sheshbazzar..." : Here's where it gets interesting. The verse says that Cyrus gave these treasures to a specific person named Sheshbazzar. Sheshbazzar was a high-ranking official in the Babylonian court, and he was given this position as governor of the temple. What does it all mean? It suggests a period of conflict and strategic maneuvering between Babylon and Israel. Nebuchadnezzar wanted to show off his power through these treasures, but the Jewish people were involved in protecting them. Cyrus's action shows a shift of power – he’s taking control of a significant amount of wealth and establishing a new authority in Babylon. Important Note: The Bible doesn't really explain why Sheshbazzar was given this position. It's a bit mysterious! It points to a time of political maneuvering and the rise of a powerful new figure within Babylonian society. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Give you a quick summary of what the verse is about? Discuss the historical context of this event?

Definition: And said unto him, Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that [is] in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be builded in his place.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 5:15. It's a really important part of understanding what happened after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the Persian period. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling someone to restore the temple. It’s essentially saying, “Let’s rebuild this important place for God.” Breaking it down piece by piece: “And said unto him…” – This means the person speaking is giving instructions to someone else. “…Take these vessels, go, carry them into the temple that [is] in Jerusalem…” - This refers to a group of people or leaders who were responsible for carrying and restoring the temple. “Vessels” likely refers to containers or items needed for the temple. The phrase “that is in Jerusalem” tells us it’s happening in Jerusalem, which was the main location of the temple. “and let the house of God be builded in his place.” - This is the key part! "The house of God" refers to the physical structure of the temple itself – a sacred building dedicated to God. “Be built” means it needs to be rebuilt or restored. What's the Big Picture? Ezra was a Jewish leader during this time. This verse is a declaration that he needed someone to take action and rebuild the temple, which had been damaged by war and neglect. It’s a powerful statement of faith and restoration – returning something precious and holy to God. In short: Ezra is telling someone to restore the temple in Jerusalem, making it a place of worship for God again. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the time period?

Definition: Then came the same Sheshbazzar, [and] laid the foundation of the house of God which [is] in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and [yet] it is not finished.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 5:16. It's a bit complex, but we can understand it as follows: What it means in plain language: “Then came the same Sheshbazzar, and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "Then came the same Sheshbazzar..." : This refers to a person named Sheshbazzar. He was a prominent leader during the Second Temple period (around 46 BC). “Sheshbazzar” is a Hebrew name that means “the builder.” "...and laid the foundation of the house of God which [is] in Jerusalem..." : This is the key part. Sheshbazzar was commissioned to build a temple for God in Jerusalem. He started building it, and he established it in the city. "And since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished." : This means that this building project has always been ongoing – ever since Sheshbazzar began. However, it's not complete. It’s still under construction. What does it tell us about the story? This verse speaks to a period of significant rebuilding and expansion in Jerusalem during the Second Temple era. It suggests: A long-term commitment: Sheshbazzar was dedicated to building a temple for God, and he didn’t give up easily. Ongoing work: The building process continues even today, meaning that this is not a one-time event but a continuous effort. A sense of anticipation: The phrase "yet it is not finished" implies there's still a lot more work to be done. It suggests there’s a larger purpose or goal behind the construction. In short, the verse describes a persistent and ongoing building project that started with Sheshbazzar and continues to this day. --- Do you want me to: Explain another passage from Ezra 5? Provide more context about the Second Temple period?

Definition: Now therefore, if [it seem] good to the king, let there be search made in the king’s treasure house, which [is] there at Babylon, whether it be [so], that a decree was made of Cyrus the king to build this house of God at Jerusalem, and let the king send his pleasure to us concerning this matter.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 5:17. It’s a really interesting passage about a royal request and a big project! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where the king of Babylon (a powerful city-state) wants to build a temple for God at Jerusalem – a very important religious place. He's asking for permission to do this, and the people of Judah (the area around Jerusalem) are being asked to help with it. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Now therefore, if [it seem] good to the king…” – This is a formal introduction. The king is giving his permission for something. It's important that the king actually thinks it’s a good idea. “…let there be search made in the king’s treasure house…” – The king wants to know where this temple will be located. He's asking someone to investigate and find it. “Treasure house” suggests a large, hidden collection of valuables. “which [is] there at Babylon…” - This is key! The search is being done in Babylon . Babylon was a very important city-state at the time. “…whether it be [so], that a decree was made of Cyrus the king to build this house of God at Jerusalem, and let the king send his pleasure to us concerning this matter.” – This is the most important part. The king wants to know: “Okay, let’s build this temple. Let him tell us exactly what to do – how much it should be, who needs to help, and when it should be finished.” It's essentially asking for a clear instruction from the king. In short: The king of Babylon wants to build a temple in Jerusalem, and he’s asking Judah to participate by searching for the location of this temple. It's a big request with significant implications! Why is it important? This verse highlights a period of political upheaval and uncertainty after the Babylonian exile. It shows that rebuilding the Temple was a huge undertaking, and the king was looking for ways to ensure its success and legitimacy. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage in more detail? Give you a summary of its historical context? Discuss what it might mean for our understanding of the biblical story?