Ezra 5:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezra 5:16
16 Then came the same Sheshbazzar, and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished.
Chapter Context
Ezra 5 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, holiness, righteousness. 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 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 5:16
16 Then came the same Sheshbazzar, and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem: and since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished.
Analysis
Sheshbazzar "laid the foundation" (yahab ushsaya) upon returning to Jerusalem, fulfilling Cyrus's commission. This initial foundation work occurred around 536 BC. The statement "since that time even until now hath it been in building, and yet it is not finished" summarized approximately 16 years of interrupted progress.
The admission that the temple remained incomplete after years of work implicitly explained why officials might question the project's legitimacy. Construction had halted during opposition from local adversaries (Ezra 4:4-5, 24), only resuming when Haggai and Zechariah prophesied (Ezra 5:1-2). Yet the elders' response emphasized continuous authorization, not continuous construction—the decree remained valid regardless of work interruptions.
Historical Context
The foundation laying (536 BC) preceded the completion (516 BC) by twenty years, though active construction occurred in shorter periods. Samaritan opposition, economic hardship, and community discouragement contributed to delays. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah addressed these problems in 520 BC, rebuking the people for building their own houses while God's house lay unfinished (Haggai 1:2-4). The 520 BC resumption triggered Tatnai's investigation.
Reflection
- What lessons can we learn from the 16-year delay between laying the foundation and resuming construction?
- How does prophetic encouragement (through Haggai and Zechariah) demonstrate the church's ongoing need for biblical preaching to sustain kingdom work?