Ezra 6:4
With three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the king's house:
Original Language Analysis
דִּי
H1768
דִּי
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
2 of 14
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
דִּי
H1768
דִּי
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
7 of 14
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
מִן
out of
H4481
מִן
out of
Strong's:
H4481
Word #:
11 of 14
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of
Historical Context
The construction technique (alternating stone and timber) was common in ancient Near East for earthquake resistance—timber absorbed movement, preventing stone collapse. Persian funding eliminated financial obstacles. Archaeological evidence shows Persian Empire regularly funded religious institutions throughout their territory as stabilizing policy. The king's house treasury had vast resources from tribute, enabling generous religious support.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's provision of resources through imperial treasury demonstrate that He controls not just permission but means for His work?
- What does the shift from Jewish struggle to Persian funding teach about recognizing God's hand in changed circumstances?
Analysis & Commentary
The construction specifications—'three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber'—describe earthquake-resistant building technique. The requirement that 'expenses be given out of the king's house' commits imperial treasury to fund construction. This transforms temple rebuilding from struggling Jewish effort to state-sponsored project. God's sovereignty turns potential opposition into material support, demonstrating that He provides resources for commanded work.