Ezra 3:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Instead, let them take instruction from you, for you exhibit love, as demonstrated by the high priest Jesus, son of Josedech, alongside his fellow priests, the wise Zerubbabel, son of Salathiel, and Ezra, the priest and scribe of the law. After the period of exile, when the temple was rebuilt and the Feast of Tabernacles was celebrated—a significant feast and day of prayer in Israel—they assembled the people in the eastern square of the first vestibule. There, they constructed an altar to the Lord and made offerings, followed by a joyous celebration. Subsequently, they continued to present sacrifices on the Sabbaths and during the new moons, while the people lifted their prayers.

In a profound understanding, the seventh month signifies the grace of the Holy Spirit, which is articulated in seven forms as noted by the prophet Isaiah and in the Revelation of St. John. Indeed, during this month, following our period of exile, we are gathered in Jerusalem, a place where all impurities, errors, and vices are cleansed from us, and where acts of righteousness serve as our safeguard. Here, we are finally enlightened by the immense grace of the Spirit and ignited with a love for the higher peace that is found in genuine unity, since Jerusalem translates to ‘the vision of peace.’