Cyrus' memorandum 6:3-5

The memorandum provided details that the edict did not contain. Among these details were the dimensions of the proposed temple. It was to be twice as high and three times as wide as Solomon's temple (v. 3; cf. 1 Kings 6:2). Obviously Cyrus intended to sponsor a temple that would excel Solomon's and thereby bring greater glory to himself. The fact that the foundations when completed appeared less impressive than Solomon's (3:12-13) suggests that the Jews did not take full advantage of their opportunity and resources. The Persian government had committed to pay for the building (v. 4). We too often fail to take full advantage of our opportunities and resources to glorify God.