Ezra 3:2

Then stood vp Ieshua the sonne of Iozadak, & his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the sonne of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the Altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offrings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God. Ezra 3:2 (KJV)

Historical Background: The events recorded in Ezra 3:2 took place after the Babylonian exile, when the Israelites were permitted to return to Jerusalem and begin rebuilding the temple. This period marked a pivotal moment of restoration for the community, as they sought to re‑establish worship according to the covenantal requirements set forth in the Torah.

Key Characters: Jeshua, the high priest, was a leading figure among the returning exiles and played a central role in reconstructing the altar and the temple. Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David and the governor of Judah, led the first group of exiles back to Jerusalem and oversaw the overall rebuilding effort. Both men, together with their fellow priests and brethren, acted in unity to fulfill God’s directives.

The Significance of the Altar: In the Old Testament the altar served as the focal point of worship and sacrifice. By rebuilding the altar, the people were re‑establishing the proper place for burnt offerings, a means of seeking forgiveness and maintaining fellowship with God. The act symbolized a renewal of covenant loyalty and a public declaration of their devotion.

The Law of Moses: Ezra 3:2 explicitly notes that the altar was built “as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God.” This underscores the community’s commitment to follow the detailed instructions given in the first five books of Scripture concerning sacrificial worship, the layout of the sanctuary, and the rites associated with the tabernacle and later the temple.

The Faith and Obedience of the People: The coordinated actions of Jeshua, Zerubbabel, and their brethren demonstrate a deep faith in God and a willingness to obey His commands despite the challenges of returning from exile and the daunting task of reconstruction. Their priority was to restore the altar and resume proper worship, reflecting a trust that God would bless their efforts as they honored His law.