Ezra

The Book of Ezra, also called the First Book of Esdras

This book takes its name from the writer: who was a holy priest, and doctor of the law. He is called by the Hebrews, Ezra. (For more information, see the article ESDRAS in the Catholic Encyclopedia.)

Chapter 1. Cyrus king of Persia releaseth God's people from their captivity, with license to return and build the temple in Jerusalem: and restoreth the holy vessels which Nabuchodonosor had taken from thence.
Chapter 2. The number of them that returned to Judea: their oblations.
Chapter 3. An altar is built for sacrifice, the feast of tabernacles is solemnly celebrated, and the foundations of the temple are laid.
Chapter 4. The Samaritans by their letter to the king hinder the building.
Chapter 5. By the exhortation of Aggeus, and Zacharias, the people proceed in building the temple. Which their enemies strive in vain to hinder.
Chapter 6. King Darius favoureth the building and contributeth to it.
Chapter 7. Esdras goeth up to Jerusalem to teach, and assist the people, with a gracious decree of Artaxerxes.
Chapter 8. The companions of Esdras. The fast which he appointed. They bring the holy vessels into the temple.
Chapter 9. Esdras mourneth for the transgression of the people: his confession and prayer.
Chapter 10. Order is given for discharging strange women: the names of the guilty.