Ezra 1:4 Meaning and Explanation
“And whosoever remaineth in any place where he sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, beside the freewill offering for the house of God that is in Jerusalem.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Those who stay behind are to support the returning exiles with silver, gold, goods, and animals, along with freewill offerings for God's house.
What Does Ezra 1:4 Mean?
The decree makes provision for the journey. Not everyone would return, so Cyrus directs that those remaining behind supply their departing neighbors with silver, gold, goods, and beasts of burden, and add freely given gifts for the temple itself. The whole community, settlers and travelers alike, is drawn into the work.
The pattern here is striking. The exiles leave Babylon laden with the wealth of their neighbors, an echo of an earlier deliverance when Israel came out of Egypt enriched by the people around them. God does not send His people out empty. Beyond the required help stands the freewill offering, given simply because the heart wishes to give. The building of God's house has always advanced on willing gifts, and the gift that pleases Him most is the one freely offered.
Ezra 1:4 in the Original Language
freewill offering (nedabah, נְדָבָה) -- a voluntary gift, given from a willing heart rather than by obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra 1:4
What does Ezra 1:4 mean?
Those who stay behind are to support the returning exiles with silver, gold, goods, and animals, along with freewill offerings for God's house.