The Pulpit Commentary on Ezra 3:4-6

The worship of the first year.

In connection with the worship of the first year after the return of the children of Israel from Babylon, we notice—

I. THAT IT WAS SUCH AS COULD BE CONDUCTED IN THE OPEN AIR.

1. They had their altar rebuilt.

2. But the foundation of the temple was not yet laid. This recalls the worship of the patriarchs.

3. There appears to have been no celebration of the ceremonies of the great day of atonement.

II. THAT IT COMPREHENDED ALL THE FESTIVALS OF THEIR RELIGION.

2. Foremost amongst these was the feast of tabernacles. This was one of the great annual festivals (Exodus 23:1-6).

(a) Every day brings its own religious duties.

(b) We must do the work of the day in the day.

2. They offered also the continual burnt offerings.