Chapter Summary

Darius confirms the deccee of Cyrus. Temple furnished and worship restored.

Discussion Questions for Ezra, Chapter 6

1. What was King Darius searching for at the start of Chapter 6, and what did he find? Do you believe his response was honoring to God? Why or why not?
2. What is the "house of God" which the record spoke of rebuilding (ESV)? Why was this place significant to Jews? Why do you think it was so important for them to rebuild it?
3. How did God use non-Israelites in this chapter to provide and care for His people, Israel? Do you see God work similarly with non-believers for believers today? If yes, in what ways?
4. According to this decree, who funded the rebuilding of the temple? Why do you think King Darius was adamant that this be done? Would this have benefitted him as king in any way? Why or why not?
5. In his decree, how does Darius describe God, his character and his power? Do you think he really believed this? What makes you think so?
6. According to verse 14, who was the first to decree the rebuilding of the temple? Why is this significant? If any of the kings had not supported the rebuild, do you think it still would have been accomplished? Why or why not?
7. How did the people of Israel celebrate the dedication of the rebuilt temple? What emotions and actions took place? How did this resemble what took place in "the Book of Moses" (v. 18, ESV)?
8. More than once in this chapter the people of Israel are referred to as "returned exiles". This was literally true in their case; however, how might this imagery compare to how believers should view themselves today? Why?
9. Who else besides the Israelites were invited to take part in observing the Passover? What were the requirements in order for them to do so? Do similar requirements still exist today? Why or why not?
10. According to verse 22, why were the people of Israel rejoicing? How was the sovereignty of God displayed? How might believers today take comfort in this story?

Key Words/Phrase

Finished, v. 14.

Characters

God, Darius, Haggai, Zeoharifiii, Xattenai, Shethar-bozenai, Cyrus.

Strong Verse(s)

10, 21, 22.