Ezra 6:10

That they may offer sacrifices of sweet sauours vnto the God of heauen, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sonnes. Ezra 6:10 (KJV)

The book of Ezra records the period when the Israelites returned from Babylonian exile. By the decree of King Cyrus of Persia the people were permitted to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The verse under study is part of a letter from King Darius of Persia to the officials of the province Beyond the River, encouraging them to support the temple reconstruction.

The passage calls the people to offer sacrifices to the God of heaven. Both drafts note that the sacrifices are described as “burnt sacrifices” or “sacrifices of sweet savours.” In the Old Testament such offerings were a central element of worship, representing the giving up of something valuable to express devotion, seek forgiveness, or give thanks. The “sweet savours” or the pleasing aroma of the burnt offering symbolized acceptance and delight before the Lord.

The title “God of heaven” underscores the sovereignty of the Almighty Creator over the heavens and the earth. Both drafts emphasize that this designation affirms the God’s supreme power and that it is noteworthy that a pagan ruler such as Darius acknowledges the God of Israel as the God of heaven.

Finally, the verse instructs the people to pray for the life of the king and his sons. This reflects the biblical principle that God’s people should intercede for their leaders, asking for divine blessing, protection, and wisdom. It also highlights the biblical teaching on honoring those in authority, recognizing that their positions are permitted by God’s sovereign will.