This verse from 1 Esdras 4:48 is describing a directive from King Darius (likely Darius I, though the historical accuracy of 1 Esdras is debated) to the governors and regions near Lebanon, specifically Coelesyria, Phoenicia, and the people in Lebanon itself. It essentially means:
King Darius ordered these regions to provide cedar wood from Lebanon for the rebuilding of Jerusalem. He specifically instructed them to bring (deliver) the cedar wood.
The cedar wood was to be used to rebuild the city of Jerusalem with Darius's support and involvement. The phrase "build the city with him" implies that Darius was taking an active role and perhaps even contributing financially or in other ways to the reconstruction project.
In simpler terms: Darius told the people of Lebanon and nearby areas, "I want you to provide cedar wood so that we can rebuild Jerusalem together."
Significance and Context:
Rebuilding Jerusalem: This verse reflects the historical period following the Babylonian exile, when the Jews were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their city and temple.
Cedar of Lebanon: Cedar wood was a highly valued building material in the ancient world, known for its durability, beauty, and aroma. It was particularly significant in the construction of temples and palaces. Using cedar from Lebanon underscored the importance and scale of the rebuilding project.
Royal Patronage: The involvement of King Darius highlights the role of foreign rulers in the rebuilding efforts. Darius's support was crucial for the success of the project.
1 Esdras: It's important to note that 1 Esdras is considered apocryphal (not part of the canonical Old Testament) by most Christian denominations. It covers some of the same historical ground as the books of Ezra and Nehemiah but includes different details and interpretations. Therefore, while informative, its historical accuracy should be considered with caution. It is more focused on glorifying Zerubbabel, who is central to the narrative in 1 Esdras.
This verse from 1 Esdras 4:48 is describing a directive from King Darius (likely Darius I, though the historical accuracy of 1 Esdras is debated) to the governors and regions near Lebanon, specifically Coelesyria, Phoenicia, and the people in Lebanon itself. It essentially means:
King Darius ordered these regions to provide cedar wood from Lebanon for the rebuilding of Jerusalem. He specifically instructed them to bring (deliver) the cedar wood.
The cedar wood was to be used to rebuild the city of Jerusalem with Darius's support and involvement. The phrase "build the city with him" implies that Darius was taking an active role and perhaps even contributing financially or in other ways to the reconstruction project.
In simpler terms: Darius told the people of Lebanon and nearby areas, "I want you to provide cedar wood so that we can rebuild Jerusalem together."
Significance and Context:
Rebuilding Jerusalem: This verse reflects the historical period following the Babylonian exile, when the Jews were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their city and temple.
Cedar of Lebanon: Cedar wood was a highly valued building material in the ancient world, known for its durability, beauty, and aroma. It was particularly significant in the construction of temples and palaces. Using cedar from Lebanon underscored the importance and scale of the rebuilding project.
Royal Patronage: The involvement of King Darius highlights the role of foreign rulers in the rebuilding efforts. Darius's support was crucial for the success of the project.
1 Esdras: It's important to note that 1 Esdras is considered apocryphal (not part of the canonical Old Testament) by most Christian denominations. It covers some of the same historical ground as the books of Ezra and Nehemiah but includes different details and interpretations. Therefore, while informative, its historical accuracy should be considered with caution. It is more focused on glorifying Zerubbabel, who is central to the narrative in 1 Esdras.