What is the meaning of Ezra 5:17?

Now, therefore, if it pleases the king

• The officials appeal to King Darius with courtesy and deference, recognizing the God-ordained place of civil authority (Romans 13:1; 1 Peter 2:13-17).

• Their respectful tone mirrors earlier biblical examples—Nehemiah’s approach to Artaxerxes (Nehemiah 2:3-5) and Daniel before Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 2:37).

• The phrase shows that while God’s people rely on divine promises, they also act wisely within earthly systems, trusting that “the king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD” (Proverbs 21:1).

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let a search be made of the royal archives in Babylon

• The request for archival verification underscores the historical reliability of Scripture; royal records really existed and could confirm past decrees (Ezra 6:1-2; Esther 6:1-2).

• It demonstrates God’s providence: what was written years earlier is now poised to defend His people. Isaiah had foretold such precision, “I have spoken, yes, I will bring it to pass” (Isaiah 46:11).

• Practical takeaway: believers can welcome honest investigation. Truth is never threatened by scrutiny.

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to see if King Cyrus did indeed issue a decree to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem

• Cyrus’s edict, recorded in Ezra 1:1-4 and 2 Chronicles 36:22-23, fulfilled Isaiah 44:28-45:1 spoken 150 years earlier—clear evidence of God’s sovereign foresight.

• By framing the question this way, the officials unwittingly set the stage for God’s Word to be publicly validated: “The grass withers…the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8).

• The phrase centers the discussion on “the house of God,” keeping the focus on worship rather than politics or economics.

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Then let the king send us his decision in this matter

• Tattenai and his colleagues pledge submission to whatever Darius discovers, illustrating orderly governance. Yet behind the scene God is orchestrating a favorable outcome (Ezra 6:6-12).

• The builders’ pause pressed them to rely on Scripture and prophetic encouragement (Haggai 1:13; Zechariah 4:6-9) while awaiting the king’s word.

• Application: while awaiting resolutions beyond our control, we continue in obedience, confident that “those who hope in the LORD will not be put to shame” (Psalm 25:3).

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summary

Ezra 5:17 captures a pivotal moment when earthly authorities, prophetic promises, and historical records converge. Respectful appeal opens the door; diligent investigation confirms God’s prior decree; and a king’s forthcoming verdict will ultimately advance God’s unchanging purpose. The verse reminds us that history, governments, and documents all serve the Lord’s plan to establish true worship among His people.