Jeshua, also known as Joshua, is a significant figure in the post-exilic period of Israel's history, primarily recognized for his role in the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. He served as the high priest during the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity, a pivotal time in the restoration of Jewish religious life and worship.

Historical Context

Jeshua was the son of Jehozadak and the grandson of Seraiah, the last high priest before the Babylonian exile. His lineage is significant as it connects him to the priestly line of Aaron, affirming his legitimate role as high priest. The return from exile was initiated by the decree of Cyrus, King of Persia, who allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1:1-4).

Role in Rebuilding the Temple

Jeshua's leadership is prominently featured in the books of Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, and Zechariah. Alongside Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, Jeshua played a crucial role in the reconstruction efforts. Ezra 3:2 states, "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."

The rebuilding of the Temple was not without challenges. The work faced opposition from surrounding peoples and internal discouragement. However, the prophetic ministries of Haggai and Zechariah provided encouragement and divine assurance. Haggai 1:14 records, "So the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people. They came and began the work on the house of the LORD of Hosts, their God."

Symbolic Significance

Jeshua's role as high priest during this period carries deep symbolic 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 the priesthood, pointing to the future Messianic hope. Zechariah 3:8 proclaims, "Listen, O high priest Joshua, you and your associates seated before you, who are men symbolic of things to come: I am going to bring My servant, the Branch."

Legacy

Jeshua's legacy is one of faithfulness and dedication to the restoration of worship in Israel. His efforts, alongside Zerubbabel, laid the foundation for the Second Temple, which would stand until its destruction in 70 AD. Jeshua's life and work exemplify the themes of restoration, renewal, and hope that are central to the post-exilic period and resonate throughout the biblical narrative.Ezra 3:8-13
Now in the second year of their coming to the house of God at Jerusalem, in the second month, began Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and the remnant of their brothers the priests and the Levites, and all they that were come out of the captivity to Jerusalem; and appointed the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, to set forward the work of the house of the LORD.
Nave's Topical Index

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

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

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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