EZRA RESTORES THE LAW

Ezra is a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Old Testament. He was a Jewish priest and scribe who played a key role in the restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.

According to the biblical account, Ezra was born in Babylon during the exile and was a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses. He was well-educated in the Law of Moses and became a priest and scribe.

In 458 BC, King Artaxerxes of Persia issued a decree allowing Jews who wished to return to Jerusalem to do so and providing them with the resources needed for the rebuilding of the temple. Ezra led a group of exiles back to Jerusalem, bringing with him a copy of the Law of Moses.

Upon his arrival in Jerusalem, Ezra found that the Jewish community had fallen into religious and social chaos. He immediately set to work to correct this situation. He called for the people to confess their sins and return to the worship of God. He also taught the Law of Moses to the people, ensuring that they understood the importance of keeping God’s commandments.

One of the key actions that Ezra took was to enforce the strict observance of the Sabbath and other religious laws, which had been neglected by the people. He also oversaw the rebuilding of the temple and the reinstitution of the sacrificial system.

Ezra’s work had a profound impact on the Jewish community in Jerusalem. Under his leadership, the people returned to the worship of God and began to live according to the Law of Moses. His efforts helped to strengthen the Jewish community and preserve their identity in the face of foreign influence.

The book of Ezra in the Old Testament provides a detailed account of his life and work, including his role in the restoration of the temple and the rebuilding of the city walls.