Period of Restoration  (Ca. 535-425 B.C.)

First Return to Jerusalem

“The rise of the Persian Empire will prove to be a real blessing to the exiled nation of Israel.  Unlike the Assyrians and Babylonians, who believed in the uprooting of their captives, Persia’s policy is one of repatriation and maintaining the status quo.  For that reason, as well as for the fulfillment of God’s promised restoration, Cyrus the Great issues a decree encouraging the volunteers among the Hebrews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.”

Read:  Ezra 1:1-4

“42,000 decide to return under the leadership of Sheshbazzar, who is appointed governor.  Relatives and neighbors give what they can to support the resettlement and reconstruction programs.  Even Cyrus assists by returning the temple articles which Nebuchadnezzar had looted.  Within two years, the initial resettlement has been completed and the foundation of the temple laid!  And yet, ,even as they get started, the people are met with opposition.  Restoration will not come easily.”

Read:  Ezra 1:5-11, 2, 3 & 4:1-5

All quotations taken from The Daily Bible.