MPV Commentary

The Altar Set Up.

When the seventh month arrived, the returning exiles had completed their initial work of rebuilding homes in Jerusalem and its surroundings. They now turned their attention to restoring the altar for burnt offerings. This was a crucial step, as it would allow them to make atonement for their sins and seek God's blessing on their ongoing temple project.

Jeshua, the grandson of Seraiah, who had been high priest before being taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar, took charge of this task. Zerubbabel, who was actually the son of Pedaiah but had been raised by his uncle Salathiel, worked alongside him. Together, they built the altar to offer burnt offerings to God.

The altar was set on its original foundation, as close as possible to its former location. They then resumed the daily sacrifices prescribed in the law (Exodus 29:38-39; Leviticus 6:9, 11), offering burnt offerings morning and evening. This public display of worship demonstrated their commitment to following God's instructions, even before the temple was rebuilt and dedicated.