The return of the exiles with Ezra marks a significant event in the history of Israel, as it represents a pivotal moment of spiritual renewal and adherence to the Law of Moses. This return is documented in the Book of Ezra, specifically in Ezra 7-10, and is part of the broader narrative of the Jewish return from Babylonian captivity.

Historical Context

The Babylonian exile began in 586 BC when Nebuchadnezzar II destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple, leading to the deportation of many Jews to Babylon. After the fall of Babylon to the Persians in 539 BC, King Cyrus issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1:1-4). The first group of exiles returned under Zerubbabel, and the Temple was completed in 516 BC. However, it was not until the reign of Artaxerxes I (465-424 BC) that Ezra led a second group of exiles back to Jerusalem.

Ezra's Leadership

Ezra, a scribe and priest, was a descendant of Aaron and well-versed in the Law of Moses. He was granted authority by King Artaxerxes to lead a group of exiles back to Jerusalem and to teach the Law to the people of Israel. Ezra 7:6 describes him as "a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given." Artaxerxes provided Ezra with a letter of decree, granting him the resources and authority needed for his mission (Ezra 7:11-26).

The Journey and the Returnees

The journey from Babylon to Jerusalem was approximately 900 miles and took about four months. Ezra 8 provides a detailed list of the families and individuals who returned with Ezra, numbering around 1,500 men, not including women and children. This group included priests, Levites, and laypeople, all committed to restoring the spiritual and religious life of the Jewish community in Jerusalem.

Spiritual Reforms

Upon arrival in Jerusalem, Ezra was confronted with the issue of intermarriage between the Israelites and the surrounding pagan nations. This was a direct violation of the Mosaic Law, which prohibited such unions to prevent idolatry and the dilution of Israel's covenant identity (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). Ezra's response was one of deep mourning and prayer, as he sought God's guidance and confessed the sins of the people (Ezra 9:3-15).

Ezra's leadership led to a public assembly where the people confessed their sins and agreed to put away their foreign wives, as recorded in Ezra 10. This act of repentance and commitment to the Law was a significant step in re-establishing the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Significance

The return of the exiles with Ezra is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people and restoring them to their land. It underscores the importance of adherence to God's Law and the need for spiritual leaders who can guide the community in righteousness. Ezra's mission laid the groundwork for the subsequent reforms under Nehemiah and the eventual rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, further solidifying the Jewish identity and religious practices that would endure through the centuries.