Old Testament · BOOK 15 OF 66

Ezra

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Illustration: Families of returning Jewish exiles travel with bundles and pack animals toward Jerusalem, hopeful expressions.

The Exiles Return

Ezra 1–2

After Cyrus permitted their return, Jewish exiles journeyed home to Jerusalem.

Illustration: Returned exiles gather around a rebuilt stone altar in Jerusalem's ruined temple precinct, worship restored.

The Altar Rebuilt

Ezra 3:1–6

The returned people rebuilt the altar and resumed worship before the temple foundations were laid. Their gathering marked a new beginning amid the ruins.

Illustration: Priests and Levites with trumpets and cymbals celebrate the temple foundation while elderly people weep nearby, joy and sorrow.

The Temple Foundation Laid

Ezra 3:10–13

The temple foundation brought shouts of joy and tears from those who remembered the earlier temple.

Illustration: Jewish families and priests joyfully gather at the modest completed Second Temple in Persian-period Jerusalem for its dedication.

The Temple Dedicated

Ezra 6:14–22

The temple was completed, and the returned exiles celebrated its dedication with joy.