What is the context?
After the king’s letter, Ezra speaks in the first person and blesses the LORD. He credits God with putting the desire to honor the Jerusalem temple into the king’s heart.
He also gives thanks for favor before the king, counselors and officials. God’s hand upon him gives him courage, and he gathers Israelite leaders to go with him.
The letter is therefore followed by the account’s own explanation of its significance: Ezra sees God’s kindness at work in the opportunity and support he has received.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Henry, Wesley and Gill read this as gratitude for both the commission and the encouragement to carry it out. Ezra’s courage is described as a response to God’s help, and the favorable royal decision becomes a reason for thanksgiving.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.