Read 5:1–6:22. Stirred up by the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, the building work continues with renewed zeal. Unable to stop it, the adversaries again complain. King Darius investigates and finds Cyrus’ original decree. Not only are the opposers ordered to ‘cease and desist’ but they are also commanded to assist materially! With continued encouragement from Jehovah’s prophets, the temple is completed in 515 B.C.E. and is inaugurated. With joy it is dedicated to God, whose promises are fulfilled!

◆ 5:5​—Why did the opposers not stop the building work?

Jehovah’s watchcare was upon his faithful servants. (2 Chronicles 16:9) Strengthened by God’s spirit, the elders refused to be intimidated. They referred to the long-forgotten decree of Cyrus. Since Persian law was unalterable, the adversaries feared opposing a royal decree. (Daniel 6:8, 15) Jehovah’s direction was evident, and the work continued.

Read 7:1–8:36. Time passes. In 468 B.C.E., King Artaxerxes grants Ezra “all his request,” enabling him to render aid in Jerusalem. The king’s order encourages all willing Jews to return also, and he grants silver and gold to provide for all necessities at Jehovah’s house. Ezra is empowered to appoint magistrates and judges, who will enforce the law of both Jehovah and the king. With trust in God’s backing, Ezra strengthens himself and sets out on the perilous journey. He does not request an armed escort, lest this be viewed as a lack of faith in Jehovah’s protective ability. With God’s backing, the Jews arrive safely.

◆ 7:1, 7, 11​—Who was this Artaxerxes?

This was the Persian king Artaxerxes I (Longimanus). In his 20th year, he granted Nehemiah permission to return to Jerusalem and rebuild its walls and gates. (Nehemiah 2:1-8) Ancient historians credit this Artaxerxes with a generally benign and generous disposition. Because of his large donation, he was included at Ezra 6:14 as one whose orders contributed to the finishing of the temple, although its construction was completed some 47 years earlier. He differs from the Artaxerxes who halted the rebuilding work. (Ezra 4:7-23) That one was Gaumata, who ruled but eight months in 522 B.C.E. “Artaxerxes” apparently was a throne name or title.