Ezra 6:22 Meaning and Explanation
“And kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with joy: for the LORD had made them joyful, and turned the heart of the king of Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of the house of God, the God of Israel.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →They keep the seven-day feast with joy, for the Lord had given them gladness and turned the king's heart to help them.
What Does Ezra 6:22 Mean?
The celebration continues with the seven-day feast of unleavened bread, kept with great joy. The text credits their gladness to the LORD Himself, who had also turned the heart of the king (here called the king of Assyria, ruler over those lands) to support the work on His house.
God is the source of the joy and the mover of the king's heart alike. He strengthened His people's hands by bending a monarch's will to favor them. The Lord rules the hearts of kings and turns them as He pleases, and when His people rejoice in finished work, it is He who gave both the help and the gladness.
Ezra 6:22 in the Original Language
matstsah (מַצָּה), 'unleavened bread' -- bread made without leaven, recalling Israel's hurried departure from Egypt and a life cleansed of corruption.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra 6:22
What does Ezra 6:22 mean?
They keep the seven-day feast with joy, for the Lord had given them gladness and turned the king's heart to help them.