Ezra

Time – 538 – 458 B.C.
Ezra covers the events of the Jews returning from the Babylonian
captivity. The decline of Babylon and its eventual overthrow by the Persians enable the Jews
to return to Jerusalem. The Jews are numbered and are allowed to return to Judah to rebuild
the Temple. Samaritan assistance is rejected and their opposition is a contributing factor to
the slow progress of the Temple construction. Despite the delays, the Temple is completed
and dedicated to God during this period.