Almost as soon as the Israelites got back to their land, they set about rebuilding the temple. Its notable that God didn't instruct them to build their own homes, or to rebuild the wall of the city. In a way, I suppose God was forcing Israel's hand. They had to trust God, that he woould protect them. This also may have been intended to demonstrate that Israel's priorities needed to be re-established on God, and His precepts. Once the temple was built, then Israel could focus on more temporal needs.
The altar was built and straightaway was used for the various prescribed burnt offerings. Then, just as Solomon had done, the Israelites acquired cedar logs from Tyre and Sidon. The masons and carpenters could then set up shop on the foundation that remained constructing the temple.
The people in charge at this time were Zerubbabel, a governor and Jeshua, a priest. Zerubbabel didn't appear to have any kingly duties, and I don't imagine there was one, as they had been in captivity all this time, and the leaders of the world powers from Nebuchadnezzar to Cyrus had been in power over them.
David's prescription for music in the temple was carried on, and there were instruments and cymbals and lots of noise. Lots of cheering and praise by the younger Israelites, but loud wailing and weeping by the older Israelites who had seen the original temple in all it's glory. Which is kind of interesting. Like, when you type out a long, thoughtful blog post and then your internet dies, and you have to rebuild, it never seems like it was as good the second time around. I imagine the frustration was similar to that. The old temple was given these intricate ornamentations, but none of those things are described here. In a way, this is something new for the nation, possibly ushering in another change.
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