Definition: And they set the altar upon his bases; for fear [was] upon them because of the people of those countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, [even] burnt offerings morning and evening.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 3:3. It’s a really important part of understanding what happened in ancient Jerusalem during a time of rebuilding. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Story: The Problem: After the Jewish people had lost their Temple in Jerusalem, they needed to rebuild it. This was a huge undertaking – a massive rebuilding project! The Fear & Offering: The people were scared and worried that God would be angry if they didn’t rebuild properly. To show their devotion and repentance, they started offering burnt offerings – special prayers and gifts – to the Lord. These offerings were made both in the morning and in the evening. Putting it Together - What's Happening? The verse says: “They set the altar upon his bases; for fear [was] upon them because of the people of those countries.” Let’s unpack that: “They set the altar…” : This means they were building a temple again, putting it back in its original place. “…upon his bases” : This refers to the foundation or base of the new temple. “For fear [was] upon them” : This is the key phrase. "Fear" here means worry and anxiety. The people were feeling anxious about whether they would do it right, if God would be pleased, and if they would be punished for their sins. “…because of the people of those countries” : This tells us that these weren’t just any people – they were from various nations or tribes in the region. It was a broader concern that everyone was worried about. In short: The people were scared and offering prayers to God, because they were worried about being judged by other peoples. What does it mean practically? This verse is a reminder of the importance of prayer and repentance. It shows that even when we’re feeling anxious or fearful, it's good to turn to God for guidance and reassurance. It also highlights the need for humility and recognizing that we are part of a larger community – both within our own group and among others. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this event?