Topical Bible: Intercession: Solicited by Darius, of the Jews

Bible > Topical > Intercession

◄ Intercession: Solicited by Darius, of the Jews ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Intercession, the act of intervening or mediating on behalf of another, is a significant theme throughout the Bible. It is often seen as a powerful expression of faith and compassion, where individuals or groups seek divine favor or intervention for others. One notable instance of intercession is solicited by King Darius of the Jews, as recorded in the Book of Ezra.

Historical Context

The historical backdrop of this intercession involves the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity and the subsequent rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. After the decree of Cyrus the Great, which allowed the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple, opposition arose from surrounding peoples. This opposition led to a halt in the construction work, which was later resumed during the reign of Darius I, the king of Persia.

Biblical Account

In the Book of Ezra, we find the account of Darius's involvement with the Jewish people and their efforts to rebuild the Temple. The adversaries of the Jews wrote to Darius, questioning the legitimacy of the construction. In response, Darius ordered a search of the royal archives, which confirmed Cyrus's original decree. Consequently, Darius issued his own decree, not only allowing the work to continue but also providing resources for the project.

Ezra 6:7-10 records Darius's decree: "Leave this work on the house of God alone. Let the governor of the Jews and the Jewish elders rebuild this house of God on its original site. Furthermore, I hereby decree what you are to do for these Jewish elders in the construction of this house of God: The expenses are to be fully paid to these men from the royal treasury, from the revenues of Trans-Euphrates, so that the work will not stop. Whatever is needed—young bulls, rams, and lambs for burnt offerings to the God of heaven, or wheat, salt, wine, and oil, as requested by the priests in Jerusalem—must be given to them daily without fail."

Intercession Solicited

Darius's decree also included a request for intercession on his behalf. Ezra 6:10 states, "Then they will be able to offer sacrifices of sweet aroma to the God of heaven and pray for the well-being of the king and his sons." Here, Darius explicitly solicits the intercession of the Jewish people, asking them to pray for him and his family. This request underscores the recognition of the power of prayer and the belief in the efficacy of intercession by those who are devoted to God.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, this instance of intercession highlights several key themes. First, it demonstrates the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and rulers. Despite the opposition faced by the Jews, God's purposes were fulfilled through the decree of a foreign king. Second, it illustrates the role of intercession as a bridge between divine will and human action. Darius's request for prayer reflects an acknowledgment of the spiritual authority and favor that the Jewish people held with their God.

Moreover, this account serves as a reminder of the importance of intercessory prayer within the community of faith. It encourages believers to seek God's intervention not only for personal needs but also for the welfare of leaders and nations, trusting in His providential care and guidance.

Conclusion

The intercession solicited by Darius of the Jews is a profound example of the intersection between divine providence and human agency. It reveals the power of prayer to influence the course of history and the hearts of rulers, affirming the biblical principle that "The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He will" (Proverbs 21:1).

Nave's Topical Index

Ezra 6:10
That they may offer sacrifices of sweet smells to the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons.
Nave's Topical Index