Jeshua, also known as Joshua, is a significant figure in the post-exilic period of Israel's history. He is primarily recognized for his role as a high priest during the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity. Jeshua played a pivotal role in the spiritual and communal restoration of the Jewish people, particularly in the rebuilding of the altar and the reestablishment of worship in Jerusalem.

Background and Lineage

Jeshua was the son of Jehozadak and a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses, which established his rightful place in the priestly lineage. His father, Jehozadak, was taken into exile by Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, during the destruction of Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 6:15). This lineage underscores Jeshua's legitimate authority and responsibility in leading the religious revival of the Jewish community upon their return to their homeland.

Role in Rebuilding the Altar

Upon the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia, allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem, Jeshua, alongside Zerubbabel, took a leading role in the reconstruction efforts. One of their first and most significant acts was the rebuilding of the altar of the God of Israel. This was a crucial step in reestablishing the sacrificial system and the worship of Yahweh, which had been interrupted during the years of exile.

Ezra 3:2-3 records this important event: "Then Jeshua son of Jozadak and his fellow priests, along with Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and his associates, began to build the altar of the God of Israel to offer burnt offerings on it, as it is written in the Law of Moses, the man of God. They set up the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings upon it to the LORD—both the morning and evening burnt offerings."

The rebuilding of the altar was not merely a physical reconstruction but a profound spiritual renewal. It signified the restoration of the covenant relationship between God and His people, allowing them to once again offer sacrifices and seek atonement for their sins.

Leadership and Challenges

Jeshua's leadership was marked by both determination and faithfulness to God's commands. He worked closely with Zerubbabel, the governor, to oversee the rebuilding of the temple and the reestablishment of proper worship practices. Despite facing opposition from surrounding peoples and internal discouragement, Jeshua remained steadfast in his mission.

The prophet Haggai encouraged Jeshua and Zerubbabel in their efforts, reminding them of God's presence and support. Haggai 2:4 states, "But now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the LORD. Be strong, O Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the LORD. Work, for I am with you, declares the LORD of Hosts."

Symbolism and Prophetic Significance

Jeshua's role as high priest also carried prophetic significance. In Zechariah 3, Jeshua is depicted in a vision standing before the angel of the LORD, clothed in filthy garments, which are then replaced with clean, rich robes. This vision symbolizes the removal of iniquity and the restoration of righteousness, not only for Jeshua but for the entire nation of Israel.

Zechariah 3:8-9 further highlights the messianic foreshadowing associated with Jeshua: "Listen now, O Joshua the high priest, you and your companions seated before you, who are indeed a sign, for behold, I am going to bring My servant, the Branch. See the stone I have set before Joshua; on that one stone are seven eyes. Behold, I will engrave on it an inscription, declares the LORD of Hosts, and I will remove the iniquity of this land in a single day."

Legacy

Jeshua's legacy is one of faithfulness, leadership, and spiritual renewal. His efforts in rebuilding the altar and the temple laid the foundation for the continued worship of God in Jerusalem and the preservation of Jewish religious identity. Through his obedience and dedication, Jeshua exemplified the role of a true spiritual leader, guiding his people back to the heart of worship and covenant relationship with God.Ezra 3:2
Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brothers the priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and his brothers, and built the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the law of Moses the man of God.
Nave's Topical Index

Altar and Temple
... not yet laid.7. They gave money also unto the ... of their ancestral fields before they
were called to leave ... sacrifices in Babylon, and after him his son Jeshua. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/altar and temple.htm

How the Temple was Built While the Cutheans Endeavored in Vain to ...
... To which Zorobabel and Jeshua the high priest replied ... such rulers governed them as
were called judges and ... They had also the governors favorable to them, and ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 4 how the temple.htm

The Twelve Minor Prophets.
... as being less known, and he is called simply the ... went up from Babylon with Zerubbabel
and Jeshua (Neh.12 ... They also contain a prediction of the final reunion and ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxiii the twelve minor.htm

Who was the Joshua in Zechariah 3:1-10? | GotQuestions.org

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