Ezr 3:7-13 | TNotes | STEP | 3:7 Tyre and Sidon: Few tall and straight trees grew in the dry climate of Judah, and those that had grown in Israel had already been cut down. Therefore, skilled laborers were hired in countries that had tall trees (see also 1 Chr 22:1-5 ; 2 Chr 2:7-16 ).

a3:7►

b1 Chr 22:1-5►

c2 Chr 2:7-16►

d3:8►

e3:10-11►

f2 Chr 5:12-13►

g1 Chr 25:1-7►

h3:12►

iHag 2:3►

‏ Ezra 3:7-13

3:7 ^a Tyre and Sidon: Few tall and straight trees grew in the dry climate of Judah, and those that had grown in Israel had already been cut down. Therefore, skilled laborers were hired in countries that had tall trees (see also 1 Chr 22:1-5 ^b; 2 Chr 2:7-16 ^c).
3:8 ^d In midspring, the dry season was beginning and workers would not have to contend with mud.

• The second year after they arrived was probably 536 BC. The delay in rebuilding reflects the time it took to get wood from Lebanon to Jerusalem.

• The work force was made up of everyone: This showed the spirit of unity among the returned exiles. Putting the Levites ... in charge ensured that the work was done according to God’s specifications.
Summary for Ezra 3:10-11: 3:10-11 ^e The music at this dedication ceremony sounded similar to the singing when Solomon first brought the Ark into the Temple (2 Chr 5:12-13 ^f). Both events caused the worshipers to givesing praise and thanks ... to the Lord for his faithful covenant love and goodness.

• as King David had prescribed: See 1 Chr 25:1-7 ^g.
3:12 ^h Those who wept aloud either were disappointed that the foundation of the Temple wasn’t as wonderful as the old one had been (cp. Hag 2:3 ⁱ) or were deeply moved with joy at seeing the Temple of the Lord restored.