Ezra: Summary & Overview
Overview
Ezra records the return of Jewish exiles from Babylon and the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Led first by Zerubbabel and then by Ezra the scribe, the people face opposition but persevere. Ezra himself leads a spiritual revival, calling the people to recommit to God's Law and separate from practices that led to exile. It's a story of new beginnings and spiritual renewal.
Key Themes
- •Restoration after exile
- •Rebuilding what was lost
- •Spiritual renewal
- •Faithfulness to God's Word
- •God works through secular rulers
Famous Verses
“For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.”
— Ezra 7:10
“The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him.”
— Ezra 8:22
“And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel.”
— Ezra 3:11
“For we were bondmen; yet our God hath not forsaken us in our bondage.”
— Ezra 9:9
“Who is there among you of all his people? his God be with him, and let him go up.”
— Ezra 1:3
Key Facts
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Genre
- Historical Narrative
- Author
- Ezra
- Date Written
- ~450–420 BC
- Chapters
- 10
Related Books
Read Ezra in Context
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