Ezra 1:4
And whosoever remaineth in any place where he sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, beside the freewill offering for the house of God that is in Jerusalem.
Ezra 1:4 · King James Version
Meaning
From this verse in the Bible, we learn about the importance of supporting and helping those who are sojourning in a place. The verse emphasizes the significance of community and showing hospitality to travelers or those who are temporarily residing in a particular location. It instructs that the men of a place should assist the person with silver, gold, goods, and beasts, in addition to making freewill offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem. This verse encourages generosity, kindness, and compassion towards strangers and those in need. It serves as a reminder to provide support and aid to those who may be in a vulnerable or transitional state, demonstrating the values of charity and caring for others as part of one's faith and devotion. By following this guidance, individuals can cultivate a sense of unity, goodwill, and mutual assistance within their communities, reflecting the teachings of the Bible on love, compassion, and service to others.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, it is important to understand the context in which it was written. The verse comes from the Book of Ezra in the Old Testament, where the people of Israel are being encouraged to support those who are traveling to Jerusalem to rebuild the house of God. The passage emphasizes the importance of community support and generosity, as individuals are called upon to assist those who are sojourning in their midst. The use of silver, gold, goods, and beasts as contributions highlights the concept of giving sacrificially and generously. By aiding those on their journey to support God's house in Jerusalem, believers are demonstrating their faith and commitment to the Lord. The verse also underscores the idea of unity and collaboration among believers, as they come together to further the work of God and support one another in their spiritual endeavors.
Ezra 1:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And whosoever is left, in any place where he sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, besides the freewill-offering for the house of God which is in Jerusalem.
World English Bible
Whoever is left, in any place where he lives, let the men of his place help him with silver, with gold, with goods, and with animals, besides the freewill offering for God’s house which is in Jerusalem.’”
Douay-Rheims
And let all the rest in all places wheresoever they dwell, help him every man from his place, with silver and gold, and goods, and cattle, besides that which they offer freely to the temple of God, which is in Jerusalem.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And euery one that remayneth in any place (where he soiourneth) let the men of his place relieue him with siluer and with golde, and with substance, and with cattel, and with a willing offring, for the house of God that is in Ierusalem.