Ezra 5:3
Amharic Catholic Version (መጽሐፍ ቅዱስ - (ካቶሊካዊ እትም - ኤማሁስ)) No Year
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, Tatnai, the governor, and Shetharboznai ask the builders of the temple who gave them permission to rebuild the temple and its walls. They are questioning the authority of those rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're building a big treehouse in your backyard, and suddenly your neighbor comes over and asks, 'Who told you to build this treehouse?' That's kind of what's happening here, but with a temple instead of a treehouse.
Historical Background
This verse is part of the book of Ezra, written after the Babylonian exile when the Jews were returning to Jerusalem. The audience is the returning exiles, and the setting is a time of rebuilding and restoration, where the Persian authorities are curious about the construction of the temple.
Living It Out Today
In today's context, this verse reminds us to be mindful of the permissions and authorities we operate under, especially in communal projects. For example, if you're starting a community garden, ensure you have the necessary permissions and support from the community.