Ezra 1:6

Authorized King James Version

And all they that were about them strengthened their hands with vessels of silver, with gold, with goods, and with beasts, and with precious things, beside all that was willingly offered.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

סְבִיבֹֽתֵיהֶם֙

H5439

And all they that were about

(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around

חִזְּק֣וּ

H2388

them strengthened

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

בִֽידֵיהֶ֔ם

H3027

their hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

בִּכְלֵי

H3627

with vessels

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

כֶ֧סֶף

H3701

of silver

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

בַּזָּהָ֛ב

H2091

with gold

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

בָּֽרְכ֥וּשׁ

H7399

with goods

property (as gathered)

וּבַבְּהֵמָ֖ה

H929

and with beasts

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

#10

וּבַמִּגְדָּנ֑וֹת

H4030

and with precious things

preciousness, i.e., a gem

#11

לְבַ֖ד

H905

properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit

#12

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#13

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#14

הִתְנַדֵּֽב׃

H5068

beside all that was willingly offered

to impel; hence, to volunteer (as a soldier), to present spontaneously

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezra, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Ezra's theological argument.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this verse's literary context within Ezra chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?