Text: Ezra 6:3-5
OT Text Referred to: Ezra 1:2-4
Subject: Three versions of Cyrus's edict
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Allusion
Connection Method(s): None
Significance: Ezra 6:3-5 preserves the Aramaic administrative version of Cyrus's decree found in the Ecbatana archives, while Ezra 1:2-4 provides the Hebrew proclamation version. The two versions complement each other: the Ezra 1 version emphasizes the theological motivation ("The LORD, the God of heaven, has appointed me"), while the Ezra 6 version provides the administrative details (dimensions, construction materials, costs from the royal treasury, and return of temple vessels). The existence of multiple decree versions reflects standard ancient Near Eastern practice of issuing both public proclamations and archival memoranda. Together they demonstrate that the temple rebuilding had both divine authorization and imperial legal backing.