Ezra 6:8
Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered.
Ezra 6:8 · King James Version
Meaning
Here, King Darius of Persia is issuing a decree to support the elders of the Jewish community in their efforts to build the house of God. He commands that the necessary funds and resources be provided from the king's treasury and the tribute collected from the region, so that the construction can proceed without any obstacles. By granting financial assistance to the Jews, King Darius ensures that they can continue their work on the temple without delay or interruption. This decree highlights the king's recognition of the importance of religious worship and his willingness to support the spiritual practices of different communities within his empire. It also serves as a testament to the power and influence of the Jewish people, as they are able to secure royal backing for their sacred endeavours. Overall, this verse demonstrates the cooperation between secular authorities and religious leaders in promoting the worship and service of God.
Theological Overview
This verse from the Book of Ezra illustrates the importance of supporting the work of God's people in building the house of God. The king issued a decree to provide financial assistance to the elders of the Jewish community for the construction of the temple. This act of generosity ensured that the elders would not be hindered in their work and that the project could be completed without delay. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the role of human cooperation in carrying out God's plans. It demonstrates how even rulers who do not worship the God of Israel can be used as instruments to support His work. The word "decree" highlights the authoritative nature of the king's command, reflecting the power structures of the time. Through this decree, the king acknowledged the importance of the temple's construction and the need to support those carrying out this sacred task. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes.
Ezra 6:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to these elders of the Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, even of the tribute beyond the River, expenses be given with all diligence unto these men, that they be not hindered.
World English Bible
Moreover I make a decree what you shall do to these elders of the Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king’s goods, even of the tribute beyond the River, expenses be given with all diligence to these men, that they be not hindered.
Douay-Rheims
I also have commanded what must be done by those ancients of the Jews, that the house of God may be built, to wit, that of the king's chest, that is, of the tribute that is paid out of the country beyond the river, the charges be diligently given to those men, lest the work be hindered.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For I haue giuen a commandement what ye shall doe to the Elders of these Iewes, for the buylding of this house of God, that of the reuenues of the King, which is of the tribute beyonde the Riuer, there be incontinently expenses giuen vnto these men that they cease not.