Ezra 6 — Finished, Dedicated, Remembered
The Search and the Scepter A Persian archive in Ecbatana yields Cyrus’s forgotten decree; Darius strengthens it and pays the costs. History bends to covenant. As we saw yesterday, the “eye of God” guards builders (Ezra 5:5), but here God also governs bureaucrats. Ezra preserves the imperial record in Aramaic (4:8–6:18), then shifts back to Hebrew at the Passover (6:19): the world’s language gives way to the language of worship. Calvin noted that God “inclines kings’ hearts” (Proverbs 21:1)—a theme Ezra sings, not argues.
The Dedication and the Twelve The temple is completed “by the command of the God of Israel and by the decrees of Cyrus, Darius and Artaxerxes” (New International Version). Divine sovereignty does not erase human instruments; it enlists them. At dedication, twelve male goats are offered “for all Israel” (6:17). Not Judah alone. The remnant bears the hope of a whole nation. The priests and Levites are set “as written in the Book of Moses” (6:18), echoing Solomon’s first temple (1 Kings 8). Small house, large faith.
Passover and Purity Those who “separated themselves from the impurity of the nations” share the meal (6:21). Some were returnees; others were locals—and perhaps converts. The text closes, stunningly, with “the king of Assyria” (6:22). The old name for Israel’s destroyer now names a Persian monarch whose heart the Lord turns. Exile’s rod becomes restoration’s staff.
For us today - God’s providence works through dusty archives and decrees. - Worship is the true end of rebuilding. - Our identity is catholic—twelve-tribed—fulfilled in Christ, the true Temple (John 2:19; Ephesians 2:19–22).
Cross-references: Jeremiah 29:10; Haggai 1–2; Zechariah 4:6–10; 2 Chronicles 36:22–23; Exodus 12; 1 Peter 2:4–10. Historical note: Ecbatana (Achmetha) is well-attested; Persian policy often funded local cults (cf. Elephantine papyri).
Hymn: How Firm a Foundation.
Prayer Lord of history, turn the hearts of rulers and the timbers of our lives toward your worship. Make us a purified people, steadfast and joyful, who celebrate the Passover Lamb, Jesus. Finish in us what you began, for your glory and our good. Amen.