Ezra 3:3
And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear was upon them because of the people of those countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, even burnt offerings morning and evening.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The 'people of those countries' included Samaritans (descendants of northern kingdom inhabitants mixed with Assyrian settlers), Edomites, Ammonites, and Arabs. These groups viewed Jewish restoration as threatening their territorial claims and economic interests. Without city walls (rebuilt later under Nehemiah), the Jewish community was militarily vulnerable. The daily burnt offerings required significant resources—unblemished lambs, oil, flour—demonstrating the people's willingness to invest materially in worship despite economic hardship. Archaeological evidence shows this period's pottery and settlements indicate modest economic conditions, making their sacrificial commitment more remarkable.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the people's response to fear through increased worship rather than withdrawal challenge modern approaches to threat and anxiety?
- What does restoration of the daily tamid sacrifice teach about the importance of regular, disciplined spiritual practices?
- In what ways can churches balance legitimate concern for physical safety with primary trust in God's protection?
Analysis & Commentary
The phrase 'fear was upon them' acknowledges the genuine threats from surrounding peoples hostile to Jewish restoration. Rather than allowing fear to paralyze or compromise worship, they channeled it toward God through sacrifice. The Hebrew construction suggests fear as motivation for establishing the altar—they needed divine protection more than physical security. Offering 'burnt offerings morning and evening' restored the daily tamid sacrifice (Exodus 29:38-42), the perpetual offering that symbolized Israel's continual devotion and God's constant provision. This regularity demonstrated faith that God's covenant promises outweighed present dangers. Theologically, this illustrates that proper response to threats is not ceasing worship but intensifying it, trusting God's protection rather than human defense.