Summary
When the seventh month came, the people of Israel gathered in Jerusalem and, under the leadership of Jeshua and Zerubbabel, constructed an altar and began offering burnt offerings, both daily and for the Feast of Tabernacles. They kept the continual offerings as commanded by the Law, even though the temple's foundation had not yet been laid. Materials and funds were gathered, including cedar from Lebanon brought by workers from Zidon and Tyre under the permission of King Cyrus. In the second year, the priests and Levites, especially those over twenty, were organized to advance the building work. When the foundation was laid, the priests and Levites worshiped with trumpets, cymbals, and singing, praising God’s enduring mercy. The crowd erupted in a loud shout of joy, while many ancient priests wept for the new temple’s sight, blending sorrow with celebration.