Ezra 3:5
And afterward offered the continual burnt offering, both of the new moons, and of all the set feasts of the LORD that were consecrated, and of every one that willingly offered a freewill offering unto the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The resumption of the tamid sacrifice held profound significance. During the seventy years of exile, this perpetual offering had ceased—the first prolonged interruption since its institution at Sinai. Its restoration symbolized renewed covenant relationship and divine presence among His people. Ancient Near Eastern temples commonly featured daily offerings, but Israel's tamid uniquely represented ongoing atonement and God's faithfulness despite human sin.
The timing is remarkable—sacrifices resumed before the temple was rebuilt (v. 6), showing worship's primacy over architecture. The altar stood on the original temple site among ruins, demonstrating that proper location and biblical pattern mattered more than impressive buildings. This prioritization of obedience over aesthetics characterized the early restoration period.
The mention of 'new moons' and feasts indicates the community possessed and followed a sacred calendar, likely preserved during exile. The calculation of these dates required astronomical knowledge and connection to pre-exilic tradition. This continuity demonstrates that exile hadn't destroyed Israel's religious identity but rather refined and strengthened commitment to Torah observance.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the restoration of daily sacrifice before the temple was built challenge modern priorities in worship and church life?
- What does the combination of required offerings and voluntary freewill gifts teach about the relationship between obedience and heartfelt devotion?
- In what ways does the perpetual <em>tamid</em> sacrifice prefigure Christ's once-for-all sacrifice and perpetual intercession (Hebrews 7:25)?
Analysis & Commentary
And afterward offered the continual burnt offering, both of the new moons, and of all the set feasts of the LORD that were consecrated, and of every one that willingly offered a freewill offering unto the LORD. The phrase 'afterward' marks progression from the Festival of Tabernacles (v. 4) to establishing regular worship patterns. The 'continual burnt offering' (olat hatamid) refers to the twice-daily sacrifice mandated in Exodus 29:38-42, representing Israel's perpetual consecration to Yahweh. This daily tamid formed the foundation of temple worship—the constant, unceasing offering that maintained covenant relationship between God and His people.
The expansion to 'new moons' (monthly celebrations) and 'all the set feasts of the LORD' demonstrates comprehensive restoration of the Mosaic calendar. The Hebrew mo'adim (set feasts) encompasses Passover, Weeks, Tabernacles, Day of Atonement—the full liturgical year prescribed in Leviticus 23. This wasn't selective observance but complete covenant renewal. The phrase 'that were consecrated' emphasizes these feasts' sacred character—they were holy unto the Lord, set apart from common time.
The final clause 'of every one that willingly offered a freewill offering' introduces voluntary worship beyond required sacrifices. The Hebrew nedavah (freewill offering) expressed spontaneous devotion and thanksgiving. This combination of prescribed ritual and voluntary offerings reflects biblical worship's dual character: obedience to divine commandment plus heartfelt response of love. The restored community didn't merely comply with law but worshiped with joyful generosity.