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Ezra 4:21

Give ye now commandment to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not builded, until another commandment shall be given from me.

Ezra 4:21 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the speaker is giving a commandment to halt the building of a city until further instructions are given. This instruction shows the authority and power of the speaker, indicating that their commands must be obeyed without question. The delay in the construction of the city highlights the importance of divine timing and obedience to higher powers. It also serves as a reminder to trust in God's plan and timing, even when our own plans are disrupted or changed. This verse can be seen as a lesson in patience, faith, and surrendering control to a higher authority. It prompts readers to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can better align their actions with God's will.

Theological Overview

From a theological perspective, this verse presents an interesting dilemma faced by the characters in the story. The commander is instructing his officials to issue a command to halt the construction of the city until further orders are given. This raises questions about the nature of authority and obedience, as well as the role of divine intervention in human affairs. The commander's command highlights the importance of following orders and waiting for divine guidance before proceeding with certain actions. It also demonstrates a belief in the ultimate authority of God, whose will must be followed above all else. Additionally, the mention of "another commandment" implies a sense of continuity and ongoing communication between humanity and the divine, reinforcing the idea that God is actively involved in the affairs of the world.

Ezra 4:21 in other translations

American Standard Version

Make ye now a decree to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not builded, until a decree shall be made by me.

World English Bible

Make a decree now to cause these men to cease, and that this city not be built, until a decree shall be made by me.

Douay-Rheims

Now therefore hear the sentence: Hinder those men, that this city be not built, till further orders be given by me.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Make ye now a decree, that those men may cease, and that the citie be not buylt, till I haue giuen another commandement.