Ezra 7:15
And to carry the silver and gold, which the king and his counsellors have freely offered unto the God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem,
Original Language Analysis
דִּ֥י
whose
H1768
דִּ֥י
whose
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
4 of 12
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
וְיָֽעֲט֗וֹהִי
and his counsellors
H3272
וְיָֽעֲט֗וֹהִי
and his counsellors
Strong's:
H3272
Word #:
6 of 12
to counsel; reflexively, to consult
דִּ֥י
whose
H1768
דִּ֥י
whose
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
10 of 12
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
Cross References
2 Chronicles 6:2But I have built an house of habitation for thee, and a place for thy dwelling for ever.Psalms 135:21Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.Ezra 6:12And the God that hath caused his name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with speed.Psalms 72:10The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.Psalms 26:8LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.Psalms 9:11Sing praises to the LORD, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings.Psalms 76:11Vow, and pay unto the LORD your God: let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared.Psalms 76:2In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.1 Chronicles 29:6Then the chief of the fathers and princes of the tribes of Israel, and the captains of thousands and of hundreds, with the rulers of the king's work, offered willingly,2 Chronicles 6:6But I have chosen Jerusalem, that my name might be there; and have chosen David to be over my people Israel.
Historical Context
Persian policy of supporting provincial temples was both political (promoting stability) and religious (securing divine favor). The 'free offering' from king and counsellors represented substantial wealth beyond Ezra's personal resources. This funding enabled both the journey and ongoing temple operations. Archaeological evidence shows Persian rulers regularly provided for religious institutions throughout the empire. Such support demonstrated imperial benevolence and secured loyalty.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Persian treasury funding of Jewish worship demonstrate that God provides resources for commanded work?
- What does recognition of Jerusalem as God's dwelling place teach about truth compelling even pagan acknowledgment?
Analysis & Commentary
The financial provision—'And to carry the silver and gold, which the king and his counsellors have freely offered unto the God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem'—shows Persian treasury funding temple worship. The phrase 'freely offered' indicates voluntary gift beyond required tribute. The identification 'God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem' acknowledges Yahweh's particular relationship with Israel and specific dwelling place. Even pagan rulers could recognize and honor this unique covenant relationship.