This verse, 1 Esdras 8:67, describes the successful dissemination and implementation of the King's (likely Artaxerxes) commands regarding the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem and the Jewish community. Let's break down the meaning:
"And they delivered the king’s commandments to the king’s stewards..." This refers to the officials responsible for managing the King's affairs and properties. They acted as intermediaries, receiving the King's decrees and ensuring they were carried out.
"...and to the governors of Coelesyria and Phoenicia..." Coelesyria and Phoenicia were regions under Persian rule. The governors were regional administrators with significant authority. The commands were sent to them because these regions were likely where resources were to be drawn from (taxes, manpower, etc.) to support the rebuilding of the Temple. Furthermore, the Jewish people were scattered throughout these regions.
"...and they honored the people and the temple of the Lord." This is the key outcome. As a result of receiving the king's commandments and executing them, the officials showed respect for both the Jewish people and their Temple in Jerusalem. This "honoring" likely involved providing resources, protection, and allowing the rebuilding efforts to proceed without interference. It suggests a positive response and cooperation from the authorities.
In essence, the verse portrays a successful implementation of the King's decree. It highlights that the royal orders were effectively communicated to the relevant officials in the region, who then carried them out in a way that showed respect for the Jewish people and their religious practices, ultimately aiding in the restoration of the Temple. It indicates a period of positive relations and support from the Persian authorities.
This verse, 1 Esdras 8:67, describes the successful dissemination and implementation of the King's (likely Artaxerxes) commands regarding the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem and the Jewish community. Let's break down the meaning:
"And they delivered the king’s commandments to the king’s stewards..." This refers to the officials responsible for managing the King's affairs and properties. They acted as intermediaries, receiving the King's decrees and ensuring they were carried out.
"...and to the governors of Coelesyria and Phoenicia..." Coelesyria and Phoenicia were regions under Persian rule. The governors were regional administrators with significant authority. The commands were sent to them because these regions were likely where resources were to be drawn from (taxes, manpower, etc.) to support the rebuilding of the Temple. Furthermore, the Jewish people were scattered throughout these regions.
"...and they honored the people and the temple of the Lord." This is the key outcome. As a result of receiving the king's commandments and executing them, the officials showed respect for both the Jewish people and their Temple in Jerusalem. This "honoring" likely involved providing resources, protection, and allowing the rebuilding efforts to proceed without interference. It suggests a positive response and cooperation from the authorities.
In essence, the verse portrays a successful implementation of the King's decree. It highlights that the royal orders were effectively communicated to the relevant officials in the region, who then carried them out in a way that showed respect for the Jewish people and their religious practices, ultimately aiding in the restoration of the Temple. It indicates a period of positive relations and support from the Persian authorities.