MPV Commentary

1. In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, God was fulfilling His word through Jeremiah (Jer 25:12; 29:10).

2. The Lord God of heaven had given Cyrus all the kingdoms of the earth, a statement that, although hyperbolic in style, was literally true at the time. Cyrus had been entrusted with a significant responsibility: to build a house for the Lord at Jerusalem.

The phraseology of this proclamation suggests that Cyrus was aware of prophecies made centuries earlier about his life and reign (Isa 44:28; 46:1-4). These predictions likely came through Daniel, who served as Cyrus's prime minister. As a result, Cyrus acknowledged God's sovereignty over all the kingdoms and felt compelled to fulfill his duty, which had been laid upon him long before he was born.

The proclamation granted permission for Jewish exiles throughout the kingdom to return to their homeland, and it encouraged those who remained to aid their fellow Jews on their journey and contribute generously towards rebuilding the temple (Ezr 1:3).

5-6. The leaders of the families from Judah and Benjamin, along with some from other tribes (1Ch 9:3), took the lead in this movement. Their example was followed by others who were strong in their faith and patriotism. Many Jewish captives, who had been born or established in Babylon, chose to remain and assist their fellow Jews. Even some of their Assyrian friends and neighbors showed goodwill and generosity towards the emigrants.