Question 1

What does Ezra 2:63 mean?

Accepted Answer

Ezra 2:63 describes how the governor, called the Tirshatha, ordered that certain people should not eat the most holy food offerings until a priest could consult God using the Urim and Thummim. This meant their priestly status was uncertain, so they had to wait for a clear decision from God before taking part in sacred duties. In this verse, the Tirshatha (the Persian-appointed governor, likely Zerubbabel) is speaking to those whose family records could not prove they were priests. The situation is about returning exiles trying to reestablish proper worship in Jerusalem. The verse shows carefulness in following religious law, especially about who could eat the special offerings reserved for priests.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Ezra 2:63

Accepted Answer

תִּרְשָׁתָא (Tirshatha): This is a Persian title for the governor, not a personal name. It highlights the official authority behind the decision. אוּרִים (Urim) and תֻּמִּים (Thummim): These were sacred objects used by priests to seek God's guidance, often understood as a way to get a clear answer from God when human knowledge was lacking. Their mention shows the seriousness of making decisions about priestly status.

Question 3

Why Ezra 2:63 matters

Accepted Answer

Ezra 2:63 clears up that not everyone claiming to be a priest could serve or eat the holy offerings without proper proof or divine confirmation. The verse emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions exactly, especially in matters of worship and leadership. This decision connects to the larger theme of restoring proper worship and order among the returned exiles, showing respect for both tradition and divine guidance.

Ezra 2:63 (KJV)