Biblical journeys

Return from Exile

After the Babylonian exile, Persia's permission brings the exiles back to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and walls.

Journey sequence and Bible passages

1
Babylon
After seventy years of exile, King Cyrus's decree permits the return.
Ezra 1:1-4
2
Jerusalem
Led by Zerubbabel, the first returnees come back and begin rebuilding the temple.
Ezra 3
3
Susa
In the Persian court at Susa, Nehemiah hears that Jerusalem's walls lie broken, grieves, and petitions the king.
Nehemiah 1-2
4
Jerusalem
Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem and finishes rebuilding the walls in fifty-two days; Ezra reads the Law and renews the people's faith.
Nehemiah 6:15; 8