Ezra 6:3
In the first year of Cyrus the king the same Cyrus the king made a decree concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, Let the house be builded, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;
Ezra 6:3 · King James Version
Meaning
During the first year of King Cyrus’ reign, he issued a decree regarding the rebuilding of the house of God in Jerusalem. This decree allowed for the reconstruction of the temple where sacrifices were offered to God. King Cyrus specified that the foundation of the temple should be laid firmly, with a height of sixty cubits and a width of sixty cubits. This decree marked a significant moment in the history of the Jewish people, as it signified the end of their exile and the opportunity to return to their homeland and worship their God once again. The rebuilding of the temple was a symbol of restoration and renewal for the Jewish community, as it represented the reestablishment of their religious practices and their connection to God. King Cyrus' decree paved the way for the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple, allowing the Jewish people to revive their faith and spiritual life.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Ezra provides insight into the divine intervention of God in the affairs of humanity. The decree made by King Cyrus to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem reflects God's providential care for His people. The word study of 'Cyrus' reveals a leader who was used by God to accomplish His purposes and fulfill His promises. The dimensions of the house, with its height and breadth in threescore cubits, symbolize completeness and perfection, showing that God's plans are meticulously designed and executed. This verse showcases God's sovereignty and faithfulness in restoring His people and their place of worship. It emphasizes the importance of honoring and preserving the sacred spaces dedicated to the worship of God.
Ezra 6:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
In the first year of Cyrus the king, Cyrus the king made a decree: Concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, let the house be builded, the place where they offer sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits;
World English Bible
In the first year of Cyrus the king, Cyrus the king made a decree: Concerning God’s house at Jerusalem, let the house be built, the place where they offer sacrifices, and let its foundations be strongly laid; its height sixty cubits, and its breadth sixty cubits;
Douay-Rheims
In the first year of Cyrus the king: Cyrus the king decreed, that the house of God should be built, which is in Jerusalem, in the place where they may offer sacrifices, and that they lay the foundations that may support the height of threescore cubits, and the breadth of threescore cubits,
Geneva Bible (1599)
IN THE FIRST yeere of King Cyrus, King Cyrus made a decree for the house of God in Ierusalem, Let the house be buylt, euen the place where they offred sacrifices, and let the walles thereof be ioyned together: let the height thereof be three score cubites, and the breadth thereof three score cubites,