EZRA—NOTE ON Ezra 6:16 the people of Israel. Even though the returned exiles consisted of only three tribes (see note on 1:5), they represent all 12, the number of the tribes of Israel. The other divisions, the priests and the Levites and the laity, are a typical way of describing the whole community in Ezra. with joy. The Lord had fulfilled his prophecies and answered his people’s prayers. There is spontaneous joy when God’s people see evidence that he is working in the world. The dedication of this house follows its completion.

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