The King Stops The Rebuilding of Jerusalem
October 6, 2020
Commentary
King Xerxes answers the letter written to him by the Samaritan leaders (v. 17). He states that after their letter had been translated to him (v. 18) he did some research and found out it was true that for years Jerusalem has rebelled and caused trouble for other kings and nations (v. 19). Also there has been mighty kings over Jerusalem who have ruled over all countries west of the Euphrates River, and tribute, custom, and toll were paid to them (v. 20).
Because of this King Xerxes issued a decree that the people stop rebuilding the city until he gives further notice, and this command is to go into effect immediately so that no harm will come to the kingdom (vv. 21-22). When the copy of the Kings’ letter was read before Governor Rehum, Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went up in haste to Jerusalem to the Jews and by force made them cease (v. 23). As a result of this the Jews were forced to stop work on the temple and were not able to do any more building until the year after Darius became king of Persia (v. 24). This passage highlights the persistent opposition that has come to God’s people over the years and to God’s ability to overcome it.
Application
Lord, help me to be quick to obey your commandments and not have my ideas about what I want to do and what I don’t want to do.
Ezra 4:17– 24 (NET)
17 The king sent the following response:
18 The letter you sent to us has been translated and read in my presence. 19 So I gave orders, and it was determined that this city from long ago has been engaging in insurrection against kings. It has continually engaged in rebellion and revolt. 20 Powerful kings have been over Jerusalem who ruled throughout the entire Trans-Euphrates and who were the beneficiaries of tribute, custom, and toll. 21 Now give orders that these men cease their work and that this city not be rebuilt until such time as I so instruct. 22 Exercise appropriate caution so that there is no negligence in this matter. Why should danger increase to the point that the king sustains damage?”
23 Then, as soon as the copy of the letter from King Artaxerxes was read in the presence of Rehum, Shimshai the scribe, and their colleagues, they proceeded promptly to the Jews in Jerusalem and stopped them with threat of armed force.
24 So the work on the temple of God in Jerusalem came to a halt. It remained halted until the second year of the reign of King Darius of Persia.