Ezra 6:16

the children of Israel Cf. the application of the term -Israel" in Ezra 2:70; Ezra 3:1. In its special religious significance, its use here is appropriate to the sacredness of the event, in which the people were engaged, while it tends to clear the Jewish community from the charge of exclusiveness towards their own brethren. -The priests and Levites and the rest of the children of the Captivity". Under these heads, the Israelites would be grouped at such a festival, cf. Ezra 6:20. Children of the Captivity". See on Ezra 1:11; Ezra 2:1. Cf. Ezra 6:19.

dedication Called in the Greek Encænia (ἐγκαίνια, LXX.), and in Hebrew -Khanukah", the same word which gives its name to the Feast of the Dedication, founded to commemorate the purification of the Temple after the pollution of Antiochus Epiphanes (164), cf. John 10:22. That festival was kept for eight days (cf. 1Ma 4:60) and began on 25th of Chislev (the 9th month).

with joy Some have suggested in connexion with this joyous occasion that the Psalms 145-148, called in the LXX. Psalm of Haggai and Zechariah, may have been composed at this period. But proof is wanting.