Ezra 8 26

Ezra 8:26 kjv

I even weighed unto their hand six hundred and fifty talents of silver, and silver vessels an hundred talents, and of gold an hundred talents;

Ezra 8:26 nkjv

I weighed into their hand six hundred and fifty talents of silver, silver articles weighing one hundred talents, one hundred talents of gold,

Ezra 8:26 niv

I weighed out to them 650 talents of silver, silver articles weighing 100 talents, 100 talents of gold,

Ezra 8:26 esv

I weighed out into their hand 650 talents of silver, and silver vessels worth 200 talents, and 100 talents of gold,

Ezra 8:26 nlt

I weighed the treasure as I gave it to them and found the totals to be as follows: 24 tons of silver,
7,500 pounds of silver articles,
7,500 pounds of gold,

Ezra 8 verses

Ezra 8 26 Meaning

Ezra 8:26 describes Ezra's precise and accountable distribution of significant valuable contributions for the Temple in Jerusalem to the entrusted priests and Levites. These treasures, consisting of silver, gold, and various vessels, were consecrated as a holy offering for God's house. The contributions originated from King Artaxerxes, his advisors, his officials, and all the Israelites who were present in Babylon, highlighting a diverse source of generosity under God's sovereign hand.

Ezra 8 26 Context

Ezra 8:26 is situated within the narrative of Ezra's journey from Babylon to Jerusalem during the second major return of the Jewish exiles, around 458 BCE. The preceding verses (Ezra 8:24-25) detail Ezra's careful selection of twelve chief priests and Levites to whom he would entrust a vast amount of gold, silver, and Temple vessels. This treasure was the result of a significant offering by the Persian King Artaxerxes, his advisors, his officials, and the Israelites remaining in the Diaspora. Ezra's intention was to transport these precious items safely to Jerusalem for the beautification and support of the Temple, which had been previously rebuilt but still required furnishing and resources. The verse highlights Ezra's scrupulous adherence to accountability and transparency, particularly given the perilous journey through bandit-infested territories and his reliance solely on God's protection rather than a military escort. This act of weighing ensured that all entrusted items were meticulously accounted for, preventing any future accusations of theft or mismanagement. The offerings represented both royal and communal support for the spiritual restoration of Israel in their homeland.

Ezra 8 26 Word analysis

• and weighed out (וָאֶשְׁקֹל - wa'eshqol): From the Hebrew verb שָׁקַל (shaqal), meaning "to weigh," "to pay," "to measure out." This term emphasizes meticulous measurement and precise accounting. In ancient near-eastern economies, wealth in precious metals was determined by weight. This act signifies careful administration, integrity, and transparency in handling sacred and valuable assets, protecting both Ezra and those receiving the goods from accusations. It implies formal responsibility.
• to them: Refers to the twelve leading priests and Levites whom Ezra had specifically chosen (Ezra 8:24) to safeguard these contributions during the journey to Jerusalem.
• the silver (כֶּסֶף - keséph): A precious metal commonly used for currency, and for fabricating sacred vessels, adornments, and offerings for the Tabernacle and Temple throughout Israel's history (e.g., Exod 25:3, Num 7).
• the gold (זָהָב - zahav): An even more precious and noble metal, frequently mentioned in the construction of sacred structures like the Tabernacle and Solomon's Temple, symbolizing purity, value, and divine presence (e.g., Exod 25:11, 1 Kgs 6:21).
• and the vessels (וְהַכֵּלִים - v'hakkeliym): These were probably cultic instruments, utensils, or furnishings for Temple service, possibly recovered items from the first Temple or new ones dedicated for its use (Ezra 1:7-11 mentions earlier vessels, Ezra 7:19 specifies their use). They signify functional sacred items used in worship and ritual.
• the offering (הַתְּרוּמָה - haterumah): From the root רוּם (rum), "to be high," or "lifted up." This denotes a "heave offering" or a contribution specifically "set apart" and "dedicated" for God. It implies something voluntarily given and sacredly purposed for the service of the Most High God, rather than a mere donation.
• for the house of our God (לְבֵית אֱלֹהֵינוּ - l'beit Eloheinu): Refers to the Second Temple in Jerusalem. "House of our God" expresses a deep, personal connection to the Temple as the place where God dwells among His people. The Temple was central to Israelite identity and worship, serving as the dwelling place for the Name of the LORD.
• which the king (אֲשֶׁר הַמֶּלֶךְ - asher hammelekh): Refers to Artaxerxes I, the Persian monarch who ruled during Ezra's time. His willingness to provide such substantial aid signifies God's sovereign control over even gentile rulers, directing their hearts to fulfill His divine purposes for His people.
• his counselors (וְיֹעֲצָיו - v'yo'atsayv): The royal advisors, members of the king's court who assisted him in governing. Their contribution reflects broader state support and potentially, an influence from God moving even pagan hearts.
• and his officials (וְשָׂרָיו - v'śarav): Other high-ranking officers or princes within the Persian empire. Their inclusion indicates a collective, comprehensive offering from the ruling establishment.
• and all Israel who were present (וְכָל־יִשְׂרָאֵל הַנִּמְצְאִים - v'chol-Yisra'el hannimtza'iym): This indicates the faithful remnant of Israelites still in Babylon who contributed generously. It highlights a united effort between the gentile superpower and the covenant people to restore worship in Jerusalem. This was not solely royal benefaction, but also a communal dedication from the people.

Ezra 8 26 Bonus section

The total value of the items Ezra received and weighed out in Ezra 8:26-27 was astounding. This included:

• 650 talents of silver (a talent of silver was approximately 75 pounds, so about 48,750 pounds of silver).
• 100 talents of gold (about 7,500 pounds of gold).
• 100 basins of gold (each weighing 20 gold drachmas or darics, totaling another significant amount).
• Two vessels of fine, bright bronze, as precious as gold.

This immense wealth, totaling multiple tons of precious metals, underscores the King's extraordinary generosity and the Israelites' sacrificial giving, highlighting the deep commitment to restoring the Temple's glory. The journey itself, without a military escort, amplified the spiritual trust placed in God's protection (Ezra 8:22), making the meticulous weighing a testimony to human faithfulness while acknowledging divine care. The meticulous accounting also contrasts sharply with the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations where temple treasures might be less scrupulously managed, subtly affirming the order and purity of God's true worship.

Ezra 8 26 Commentary

Ezra 8:26 presents Ezra as a diligent and exemplary steward, meticulously handling the immense wealth entrusted for God's Temple. The precise weighing of silver, gold, and vessels underscores the high value of these offerings, their sacred purpose, and Ezra's commitment to absolute integrity. This act was crucial for transparency and accountability, particularly as they embarked on a hazardous journey where such riches could easily be stolen, and rumors of mishandling could damage Ezra's reputation and the credibility of the divine work. The source of these treasures—King Artaxerxes, his court, and the contributing Israelites—demonstrates God's providential working through both secular authorities and His faithful remnant to achieve His plans for His people and the restoration of His worship. This divine provision, orchestrated from multiple sources, reinforced the belief that God was sovereignly enabling the return and the beautification of His sanctuary. Ezra's actions exemplify prudent and faithful management of God's resources, setting a timeless standard for those entrusted with ministry funds and sacred duties.