Ezra 7:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Ezra 7:17
17 That thou mayest buy speedily with this money bullocks, rams, lambs, with their meat offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them upon the altar of the house of your God which is in Jerusalem.
Chapter Context
Ezra 7 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, love, 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 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 7:17
17 That thou mayest buy speedily with this money bullocks, rams, lambs, with their meat offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them upon the altar of the house of your God which is in Jerusalem.
Analysis
The expenditure guidance—'That thou mayest buy speedily with this money bullocks, rams, lambs, with their meat offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them upon the altar of the house of your God which is in Jerusalem'—specifies proper use of funds. The word 'speedily' suggests urgency in establishing proper worship. The detailed list (bullocks, rams, lambs, grain and drink offerings) corresponds to Mosaic sacrificial requirements, showing Artaxerxes understood Torah prescriptions. Whether from Jewish advisors or his own study, his knowledge demonstrates divine influence on a pagan mind.
Historical Context
The sacrifices specified correspond to various Mosaic offerings: burnt offerings (Leviticus
- , grain offerings (Leviticus
- , and drink offerings (Numbers 15).
The complete list shows comprehensive provision for prescribed worship. Artaxerxes' knowledge of these details suggests significant Jewish influence at court. The phrase 'altar of the house of your God' recognizes temple's unique function as legitimate worship site. Persian funding enabled immediate resumption of full sacrificial calendar.
Reflection
- How does pagan king's provision of sacrifice materials demonstrate God's ability to incline hearts toward supporting proper worship?
- What does Artaxerxes' knowledge of sacrificial requirements teach about God's influence extending to unexpected places?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: John 2:14