Bible crossword puzzle: Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther
TL;DR: This crossword draws on material about Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther, including their historical settings and content. These books cover the periods of exile and restoration and offer guidance for reforming and sustaining a vital community of faith.
Nehemiah Views the Ruins of Jerusalem’s Walls, Gustave Doré, 1866 |
Image Source
Based on Chapter 10 of Discovering the Bible by Alex Varughese
Challenge: Can you solve this puzzle even if you do not have the book by Varughese?
Across
2 An event or period that deprived the Jews of visible symbols of God’s blessing: their Temple, kingship, and nationhood. This period contributed to the development of synagogues as teaching centers in later Judaism
4 Cupbearer to the king of Persia whose book tells how he led the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls following the Babylonian exile
5 The Persian king who allowed Jewish exiles to return to their homeland
Down
1 One of the “minor” prophets who inspired the Jews to resume rebuilding the Temple after the Babylonian exile
2 A Jewish priest and scribe who helped reestablish the teaching of the Law after the king of Persia commissioned him to return to his ancestral homeland
3 The book that tells of the dramatic deliverance of the Jewish people from extermination during the Persian period. This deliverance is commemorated today during the festival of Purim
This crossword puzzle was created for use in Introduction to Biblical Literature. The words and clues come from the textbook Discovering the Bible: Story and Faith of the Biblical Communities, edited by Alex Varughese and published by what is now called The Foundry.
What Can We Learn from Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther?
The books of Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther offer us important lessons for today:
Faith and Courage: Esther demonstrates the importance of courage and faith in the face of adversity. Despite the risk to her life, she acts to save her people. Her story shows us that standing up for what is right can require bravery.
Leadership and Vision: Nehemiah's leadership in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls teaches us about the importance of vision, planning, and leadership in achieving goals, especially in times of crisis or rebuilding.
Restoration and Renewal: Ezra’s role in teaching God’s Law and leading the people in renewed commitment to God demonstrates the importance of spiritual renewal and returning to our spiritual foundations during times of decline.
Community and Unity: These biblical books point to the significance of community and the need for unity among God's people. Nehemiah's reconstruction efforts required the collaboration and cooperation of the entire community. His story demonstrates the strength that comes from unity.
God's Sovereignty: Taken together, these books testify to God’s sovereignty over individuals and nations. Even in difficult circumstances, their stories invite readers to recognize God at work in fulfilling His purposes.
God's Providence: Esther has traditionally been understood as illustrating God’s providential care for His people in a seemingly hopeless situation. Although the book never explicitly mentions God, readers can perceive signs of divine providence throughout the story.
The Importance of Prayer: Nehemiah’s frequent prayers demonstrate the importance of seeking God’s guidance and intervention, especially during times of difficulty or uncertainty.
The Consequences of Disobedience: 1 and 2 Chronicles recount some of Israel's history, including the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. These two books warn against repeating past mistakes. They also call attention to the importance of obedience to God.
