Ezra 2:63
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezra 2:63
63 And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and with Thummim.
Chapter Context
Ezra 2 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, discipleship, obedience. Written during the post-exilic return (c. 458-440 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The Persian Empire allowed religious freedom while maintaining political control.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-70: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Ezra and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Ezra 2:63
63 And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and with Thummim.
Analysis
And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and with Thummim—The Tirshatha (תִּרְשָׁתָא, Persian title meaning "governor," likely Zerubbabel or Sheshbazzar) prohibited these questionable priests from eating the qodesh ha-qodashim (most holy things)—portions reserved for Aaronide priests (Leviticus 2:3,10; 6:16-18).
The restriction awaited priestly consultation via Urim v'Tummim (אוּרִים וְתֻמִּים)—mysterious objects used for divine guidance, meaning "lights and perfections." Tragically, they were lost in exile and never recovered—no subsequent biblical text records their use. This leaves the priests in perpetual limbo, illustrating that the old covenant's mechanisms of certainty had failed. Christ becomes our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16), giving direct access without Urim and Thummim.
Historical Context
The Urim and Thummim were objects kept in the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:30), used for yes/no divine guidance. Their exact nature remains debated (stones? lots?). After the exile, they disappear from biblical record—Josephus confirms they ceased functioning in the Second Temple period. This marks the transition from mechanical revelation to prophetic and ultimately Spirit-filled guidance.
Reflection
- How does the permanent loss of Urim and Thummim point forward to Christ as our final and complete revelation?
- What happens when old covenant mechanisms of certainty fail and only faith in God's promises remains?
- In what ways do you seek mechanical certainty (modern "Urim and Thummim") rather than trusting the Holy Spirit's guidance?
Word Studies
- Priest: כֹּהֵן (Kohen) H3548 - Priest
Cross-References
- Holy: Leviticus 2:3, 2:10, 22:10, Nehemiah 8:9
- Parallel theme: Exodus 28:30, Numbers 27:21