And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written.
And they should announce and spread the word in all their cities and in Jerusalem, saying, 'Go out to the hills and gather olive branches, pine branches, myrtle branches, palm branches, and branches from leafy trees to build temporary shelters, just as it is written in the Law.'
The people were instructed to announce throughout their cities that everyone should gather branches to build temporary outdoor shelters for a religious celebration, following God's written commands.
📚 Historical Context
This occurred around 445 BC when Ezra was reading the Law to the Jewish people who had returned from Babylonian exile. As they listened, they rediscovered the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), a celebration they hadn't properly observed for generations. This festival was meant to remind them of God's provision when their ancestors lived in temporary shelters during their 40 years in the wilderness.
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