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The Book of Ezra


The Book of Ezra relates the crucial period of the reestablishment of the Jewish community in Jerusalem after their release from the seventy-year Babylonian exile. It was an event of the utmost importance for the future of the covenant people and God's divine plan for humanity's salvation. After King Cyrus of Persia conquered the Babylonian empire, in an official decree (539/8 BC), he magnanimously authorized the return and extended certain privileges to all peoples displaced from their homelands by the Babylonians, including the citizens of Judah. Led by Sheshbazzar, a prince of Judah, the faithful remnant of God's covenant people returned to their native land determined to reinstate the daily Tamid liturgical worship services, rebuilding the Jerusalem Temple, and with the assistance of the scribe Ezra, reestablishing the Law of the Torah. References for the course are found in the Course Bibliography.

Lesson Number Chapter Description Handouts
Lesson 1 Introduction and Chapters 1-2 King Cyrus' Decree and a Davidic Prince Leads the Return of the Exiles
The List of the First Returning Exiles
Handouts
Lesson 2 Chapters 3-4 Resumption of the Sacrificial Liturgy of Worship
Opposition from the Samaritans
Handouts
Lesson 3 Chapters 5-6 The Covenant People of Judah Rebuild the Temple
and Celebrate the Feasts of Passover and Unleavened Bread
Handouts
Lesson 4 Chapters 7-8 The Mission of Ezra the Priestly Scribe Handouts
Lesson 5 Chapters 9-10 Ezra's Decree Concerning Marriages to Pagans and the People's Response  

 

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