The theme of opposition to the rebuilding efforts is prominently featured in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which detail the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and their efforts to restore Jerusalem and its temple. This period, marked by both divine providence and human resistance, highlights the challenges faced by the Israelites as they sought to reestablish their religious and national identity.

Historical Context

Following the decree of Cyrus the Great, king of Persia, in 538 BC, the Jewish exiles were permitted to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4). This decree fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah concerning the end of the Babylonian captivity (Jeremiah 29:10). The initial group of returnees, led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua, laid the foundation of the temple amidst great celebration (Ezra 3:10-13).

Opposition from Local Inhabitants

The rebuilding efforts soon encountered opposition from the local inhabitants, including the Samaritans and other peoples who had settled in the region during the exile. These groups sought to hinder the work, initially by offering to help, which was declined by Zerubbabel and the leaders of Israel (Ezra 4:1-3). The refusal was based on the desire to maintain the purity of worship and the distinct identity of the Jewish community.

When their offer was rejected, the adversaries resorted to discouraging the people and frightening them to stop the work. They even hired counselors to frustrate the plans of the Jews throughout the reign of Cyrus and into the reign of Darius (Ezra 4:4-5).

Political Maneuvering and Accusations

The opposition escalated as the adversaries wrote accusations against the Jews to the Persian kings. During the reign of Ahasuerus (Xerxes I), they lodged a complaint, and later, during the reign of Artaxerxes, they sent a letter accusing the Jews of rebellion and insurrection (Ezra 4:6-16). The letter claimed that if the city and its walls were rebuilt, the Jews would refuse to pay tribute, thus harming the royal revenues.

Artaxerxes responded by ordering the cessation of the work, which led to a temporary halt in the rebuilding efforts (Ezra 4:17-24). This period of inactivity lasted until the second year of Darius the Great, when the prophets Haggai and Zechariah encouraged the people to resume construction (Ezra 5:1-2).

Renewed Efforts and Divine Intervention

Under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Jeshua, and with the prophetic encouragement, the Jews resumed the work on the temple. This prompted a new inquiry by the Persian officials, led by Tattenai, the governor of the region beyond the River (Ezra 5:3-5). The Jews appealed to the original decree of Cyrus, and Darius ordered a search of the royal archives, which confirmed the decree (Ezra 6:1-5).

Darius not only allowed the work to continue but also provided resources for the completion of the temple, demonstrating divine intervention in favor of the Jewish people (Ezra 6:6-12). The temple was completed in the sixth year of Darius's reign, and the dedication was celebrated with great joy (Ezra 6:15-16).

Opposition to Nehemiah's Efforts

Years later, Nehemiah, serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, received permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city's walls (Nehemiah 2:1-8). Upon his arrival, Nehemiah faced opposition from Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arab, who mocked and ridiculed the efforts (Nehemiah 2:19).

Despite the opposition, Nehemiah organized the people and continued the work. The adversaries attempted various tactics, including threats of violence, false accusations, and attempts to lure Nehemiah into a trap (Nehemiah 4:1-3, 6:1-14). Nehemiah's steadfast faith and leadership, along with the people's determination, led to the successful completion of the wall in just 52 days (Nehemiah 6:15-16).

Spiritual Lessons

The opposition to the rebuilding efforts serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual warfare faced by God's people. It underscores the importance of faith, perseverance, and reliance on divine guidance in the face of adversity. The accounts of Ezra and Nehemiah illustrate how God can use even opposition to fulfill His purposes and strengthen His people.