Ezra 7:8
And he came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year of the king.
Original Language Analysis
וַיָּבֹ֥א
And he came
H935
וַיָּבֹ֥א
And he came
Strong's:
H935
Word #:
1 of 8
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
יְרֽוּשָׁלִַ֖ם
to Jerusalem
H3389
יְרֽוּשָׁלִַ֖ם
to Jerusalem
Strong's:
H3389
Word #:
2 of 8
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine
הִ֛יא
H1931
הִ֛יא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
5 of 8
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
Historical Context
The four-month journey (April-August 458 BC) traversed arid regions and required organized caravans for safety. Ezra's company included approximately 1,500 men plus families (Ezra 8:1-14), carrying gold and silver worth millions. Normal travel time was three to four months for such a large group. The summer arrival meant they endured heat but avoided winter rains. Archaeological evidence of Persian road systems and way-stations confirms trade route infrastructure.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the successful journey with great wealth demonstrate God's providence in both spiritual calling and practical protection?
- What does the four-month duration teach about faithfulness in long, difficult processes rather than seeking immediate results?
Analysis & Commentary
The arrival 'in the fifth month' after departing 'on the first day of the first month' (v. 9) indicates a four-month journey. This timing demonstrates careful planning and divine protection. The journey from Babylon to Jerusalem covered approximately 900 miles through potentially hostile territory. That they arrived safely with enormous wealth testifies to God's faithfulness. The phrase 'according to the good hand of his God upon him' attributes success explicitly to divine providence.