第45章 归回故土
§1
第45章 归回故土
§2
Chap. 45 - The Return of the Exiles
§3
古列的大军进迫巴比伦的城垣，这对于犹太人而言，乃是一个先兆，表明他们脱离被掳得释放的时候近了。在古列出世一百多年以前，《圣经》就已提及他的名字，并曾记载他在突然之间攻陷巴比伦、并为释放被掳之民预备道路等他所成就的实际事迹。借着以赛亚，曾有这样的话说：[1]{PK 551.1}
§4
The advent of the army of Cyrus before the walls of Babylon was to the Jews a sign that their deliverance from captivity was drawing nigh. More than a century before the birth of Cyrus, Inspiration had mentioned him by name, and had caused a record to be made of the actual work he should do in taking the city of Babylon unawares, and in preparing the way for the release of the children of the captivity. Through Isaiah the word had been spoken:{PK 551.1}[1]
§5
“我耶和华所膏的古列，我搀扶他的右手，使列国降伏在他面前。……使城门在他面前敞开，不得关闭。我对他如此说：我必在你前面行，修平崎岖之地。我必打破铜门，砍断铁闩。我要将暗中的宝物和隐密的财宝赐给你，使你知道提名召你的，就是我耶和华以色列的上帝。”（赛45:1-3）[2]{PK 551.2}
§6
Thus saith the Lord to His anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; . . . to open before him the two-leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut; I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron: and I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. Isaiah 45:1-3. {PK 551.2}[2]
§7
波斯征服者的大军突然由业已改道而流的河床，进入巴比伦京都的中心，并闯进那因自觉安全而敞开且全无防守的内部门户，犹太人在这些事上已有充分的凭据，证明以赛亚所说有关那些压迫他们的人忽然倾覆的预言已逐句应验了。这对于他们应是一个确切无误的表号，显明上帝正在为他们的缘故而安排各国的事务。因为以下的话是与描述巴比伦被攻占而倾覆的预言紧紧相连的：[3]{PK 552.1}
§8
In the unexpected entry of the army of the Persian conqueror into the heart of the Babylonian capital by way of the channel of the river whose waters had been turned aside, and through the inner gates that in careless security had been left open and unprotected, the Jews had abundant evidence of the literal fulfillment of Isaiahs prophecy concerning the sudden overthrow of their oppressors. And this should have been to them an unmistakable sign that God was shaping the affairs of nations in their behalf; for inseparably linked with the prophecy outlining the manner of Babylons capture and fall were the words:{PK 552.1}[3]
§9
“论古列说：他是我的牧人，必成就我所喜悦的，必下令建造耶路撒冷，发命立稳圣殿的根基。”“我凭公义兴起古列，又要修直他一切道路，他必建造我的城，释放我被掳的民，不是为工价，也不是为赏赐。这是万军之耶和华说的。”(赛44:28；45:13)[4]{PK 552.2}
§10
Cyrus, he is My shepherd, and shall perform all My pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid. I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build My city, and he shall let go My captives, not for price nor reward, saith the Lord of hosts. Isaiah 44:28;45:13.{PK 552.2}[4]
§11
流亡的犹太人不仅可根据这几段预言，以建立他们获得迅速解救的希望。耶利米的著作是他们都能阅读的，这些著作中明明提到，以色列人从巴比伦被释归国以前，必经过一段相当的时期。主曾借他的信使预言说：“七十年满了以后，我必刑罚巴比伦王和那国民，并迦勒底人之地，因他们的罪孽使那地永远荒凉。这是耶和华说的。”（耶25:12）他要向犹大的“余数”施恩，以应答恳切的祈祷。耶和华说：“我必被你们寻见，我也必使你们被掳的人归回，将你们从各国中，和我所赶你们到的各处招聚了来，又将你们带回我使你们被掳掠离开的地方。这是耶和华说的。”（耶29:14）[5]{PK 552.3}
§12
Nor were these the only prophecies upon which the exiles had opportunity to base their hope of speedy deliverance. The writings of Jeremiah were within their reach, and in these was plainly set forth the length of time that should elapse before the restoration of Israel from Babylon. When seventy years are accomplished, the Lord had foretold through His messenger, I will punish the king of Babylon, and that nation, saith the Lord, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and will make it perpetual desolations. Jeremiah 25:12. Favor would be shown the remnant of Judah, in answer to fervent prayer. I will be found of you, saith the Lord: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the Lord; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive. Jeremiah 29:14.{PK 552.3}[5]
§13
但以理和他的同伴常常研究这些、以及描述上帝对他子民所定旨意的类似预言。这时，局势正在迅速发展，显明上帝大能的膀臂正在各国中运行，但以理就特别想到那些赐与以色列的应许。他对于这些预言的信心，更使他体味到神圣作者们所预言的经验。主曾说：“为巴比伦所定的七十年满了以后，我要眷顾你们，向你们成就我的恩言，使你们仍回此地。耶和华说：我知道我向你们所怀的意念，是赐平安的意念，不是降灾祸的意念，要叫你们末后有指望。你们要呼求我，祷告我，我就应允你们。你们寻求我，若专心寻求我，就必寻见。”（耶29:10-13）[6]{PK 553.1}
§14
Often had Daniel and his companions gone over these and similar prophecies outlining Gods purpose for His people. And now, as the rapid course of events betokened the mighty hand of God at work among the nations, Daniel gave special thought to the promises made to Israel. His faith in the prophetic word led him to enter into experiences foretold by the sacred writers. After seventy years be accomplished at Babylon, the Lord had declared, I will visit you, and perform My good word toward you, in causing you to return. . . . I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart. Verses 10-13.{PK 553.1}[6]
§15
在巴比伦倾覆之前不久，正当但以理默想这些预言，并祈求上帝帮助他明白有关时期的含义时，就有一连串论到各国兴亡的异象赐予他。第一个异象记在但以理书第七章中，附有一段解释的话；然而当时先知也不完全明了。他提及当时的经验说：“我……心中甚是惊惶，脸色也改变了，却将那事存记在心。”（但7:28）[7]{PK 553.2}
§16
Shortly before the fall of Babylon, when Daniel was meditating on these prophecies and seeking God for an understanding of the times, a series of visions was given him concerning the rise and fall of kingdoms. With the first vision, as recorded in the seventh chapter of the book of Daniel, an interpretation was given; yet not all was made clear to the prophet. My cogitations much troubled me, he wrote of his experience at the time, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart. Daniel 7:28.{PK 553.2}[7]
§17
由于另一个异象，未来的各项大事有了进一步亮光的启迪，而且在这异象将近结束时，但以理听见“有一位圣者说话，又有一位圣者问那说话的圣者说，这……异象要到几时才应验呢？”（但8:13）当时所得到的回答是：“到二千三百日，圣所就必洁净，”（但8:14）这话使他困惑不已。他恳切地祈求了解这异象的意义。他不明白耶利米所预言的被掳七十年，与他在异象中听到那圣者所说、在上帝圣所洁净之前必要经过的二千三百年，二者有何关系。天使加百列向他作了部分的解释；然而在先知听到“这异象……关乎后来许多的日子”这话时，他就昏倒了。他记录当时的经验说：“我但以理昏迷不醒，病了数日，然后起来办理王的事务。我因这异象惊奇，却无人能明白其中的意思。”（但8:26-27）[8]{PK 554.1}
§18
Through another vision further light was thrown upon the events of the future; and it was at the close of this vision that Daniel heard one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain saint which spake, How long shall be the vision? Daniel 8:13. The answer that was given, Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed (verse 14), filled him with perplexity. Earnestly he sought for the meaning of the vision. He could not understand the relation sustained by the seventy years captivity, as foretold through Jeremiah, to the twenty-three hundred years that in vision he heard the heavenly visitant declare should elapse before the cleansing of Gods sanctuary. The angel Gabriel gave him a partial interpretation; yet when the prophet heard the words, The vision . . . shall be for many days, he fainted away. I Daniel fainted, he records of his experience, and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the kings business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it. Verses 26, 27.{PK 554.1}[8]
§19
但以理既仍因以色列而心中忧烦，于是就重新研究耶利米的预言。这些预言都非常清楚，清楚得足使他从记载于书上的见证，而明白“耶和华的话临到先知耶利米，论耶路撒冷荒凉的年数，七十年为满。”（但9:2）[9]{PK 554.2}
§20
Still burdened in behalf of Israel, Daniel studied anew the prophecies of Jeremiah. They were very plain--so plain that he understood by these testimonies recorded in books the number of the years, whereof the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet, that He would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. Daniel 9:2.{PK 554.2}[9]
§21
但以理凭着他那基于确切的预言而生的信心，恳求主迅速实现这些应许。他恳求上帝维护他的尊荣。他在祈祷中完全将自己和那些辜负神旨的人视同一体，并承认他们的罪为他自己的罪。[10]{PK 554.3}
§22
With faith founded on the sure word of prophecy, Daniel pleaded with the Lord for the speedy fulfillment of these promises. He pleaded for the honor of God to be preserved. In his petition he identified himself fully with those who had fallen short of the divine purpose, confessing their sins as his own.{PK 554.3}[10]
§23
先知说：“我便禁食，披麻蒙灰，定意向主上帝祈祷恳求。我向耶和华我的上帝祈祷、认罪。”（但9:3-4）但以理虽已长久侍奉上帝，并被上天称为“大蒙眷爱”的，然而他这时仍以罪人的身分来到上帝面前，力陈他所热爱之民的需要。他的祈祷是简明动人、而又热切诚恳的。且听他呼求说：[11]{PK 555.1}
§24
I set my face unto the Lord God, the prophet declared, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: and I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession. Verses 3, 4. Though Daniel had long been in the service of God, and had been spoken of by heaven as greatly beloved, yet he now appeared before God as a sinner, urging the great need of the people he loved. His prayer was eloquent in its simplicity, and intensely earnest. Hear him pleading:{PK 555.1}[11]
§25
“主啊，大而可畏的上帝，向爱主守主诫命的人守约施慈爱；我们犯罪作孽，行恶叛逆，偏离你的诫命典章。没有听从你仆人众先知奉你名向我们君王、首领、列祖和国中一切百姓所说的话。”[12]{PK 555.2}
§26
O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love Him, and to them that keep His commandments; we have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from Thy precepts and from Thy judgments; neither have we hearkened unto Thy servants the prophets, which spake in Thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.{PK 555.2}[12]
§27
“主啊，你是公义的，我们是脸上蒙羞的；因我们犹大人和耶路撒冷的居民，并以色列众人，或在近处，或在远处被你赶到各国的人都得罪了你，正如今日一样，……”“主我们的上帝，是怜悯饶恕人的，我们却违背了他。”[13]{PK 555.3}
§28
O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto Thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day; to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, that are near, and that are far off, through all the countries whither Thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they have trespassed against Thee. . . .{PK 555.3}[13]
§29
“主啊，求你按你的大仁大义，使你的怒气和忿怒转离你的城耶路撒冷，就是你的圣山。耶路撒冷和你的子民，因我们的罪恶和我们列祖的罪孽，被四围的人羞辱。[14]{PK 555.4}
§30
To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgiveness, though we have rebelled against Him. O Lord, according to all Thy righteousness, I beseech Thee, let Thine anger and Thy fury be turned away from Thy city Jerusalem, Thy holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and Thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us.{PK 555.4}[14]
§31
“我们的上帝啊，现在求你垂听仆人的祈祷恳求，为自己使脸光照你荒凉的圣所。我的上帝啊，求你侧耳而听，睁眼而看，眷顾我们荒凉之地和称为你名下的城。我们在你面前恳求，原不是因自己的义，乃因你的大怜悯。[15]{PK 556.1}
§32
Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of Thy servant, and his supplications, and cause Thy face to shine upon Thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lords sake. O my God, incline Thine ear, and hear; open Thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by Thy name: for we do not present our supplications before Thee for our righteousness, but for Thy great mercies.{PK 556.1}[15]
§33
“求主垂听，求主赦免，求主应允而行，为你自己不要迟延。我的上帝啊，因这城和这民，都是称为你名下的。”（但9:4-9,16-19）[16]{PK 556.2}
§34
O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for Thine own sake, O my God: for Thy city and Thy people are called by Thy name. Verses 4-9, 16-19.{PK 556.2}[16]
§35
天庭也在侧耳倾听这先知的恳切祈祷。甚至在他还没有结束他恳求赦免与复兴的祈祷之前，大有能力的加百列又向他显现，并叫他注意他在巴比伦倾覆、伯沙撒被杀之前所见到的异象。然后天使便向他详细解释那七十个七的时期，说明这个时期要“从出令重新建造耶路撒冷”开始（但9:25）。[17]{PK 556.3}
§36
Heaven was bending low to hear the earnest supplication of the prophet. Even before he had finished his plea for pardon and restoration, the mighty Gabriel again appeared to him, and called his attention to the vision he had seen prior to the fall of Babylon and the death of Belshazzar. And then the angel outlined before him in detail the period of the seventy weeks, which was to begin at the time of the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem. Verse 25.{PK 556.3}[17]
§37
但以理的祈祷是在“大利乌……元年”献上的（但9:1），这个玛代族王的元帅古列曾将统治天下的大权从巴比伦王手中夺过来。大利乌的统治甚受上帝的重视。天使加百列曾奉差遣来到他那里，“使他坚强。”（但11:1）约在巴比伦倾覆后二年，大利乌驾崩，古列继位，而在他执政的开始，就是第一批希伯来人从犹大地被尼布甲尼撒掳到巴比伦之后、七十年满足的时期。[18]{PK 556.4}
§38
Daniels prayer had been offered in the first year of Darius (verse 1), the Median monarch whose general, Cyrus, had wrested from Babylonia the scepter of universal rule. The reign of Darius was honored of God. To him was sent the angel Gabriel, to confirm and to strengthen him. Daniel 11:1. Upon his death, within about two years of the fall of Babylon, Cyrus succeeded to the throne, and the beginning of his reign marked the completion of the seventy years since the first company of Hebrews had been taken by Nebuchadnezzar from their Judean home to Babylon.{PK 556.4}[18]
§39
上帝曾利用但以理蒙救脱离狮坑的事，在古列大帝的脑海中生出了良好的印象。这个身为政治家的神人，其优秀的气质和高瞻远瞩的才能，使波斯的统治者非常器重他，并且也很珍视他的意见。这时，正值上帝所说他要使他在耶路撒冷的圣殿重新建造的时期，他就感动那为他媒介的古列，使他发现那有关他自己的预言——也就是但以理最熟悉的预言，并准许犹太人恢复自由。[19]{PK 557.1}
§40
The deliverance of Daniel from the den of lions had been used of God to create a favorable impression upon the mind of Cyrus the Great. The sterling qualities of the man of God as a statesman of farseeing ability led the Persian ruler to show him marked respect and to honor his judgment. And now, just at the time God had said He would cause His temple at Jerusalem to be rebuilt, He moved upon Cyrus as His agent to discern the prophecies concerning himself, with which Daniel was so familiar, and to grant the Jewish people their liberty.{PK 557.1}[19]
§41
当古列王看到那在他出世前一百多年的话语，预言巴比伦被攻取的情形。当他读到宇宙的统治者向他发出的信息：“你虽不认识我，我必给你束腰。从日出之地到日落之处，使人都知道除了我以外，没有别神。”当他看到那在他眼前的永生上帝的宣言：“因我仆人雅各，我所拣选以色列的缘故。我就题名召你；你虽不认识我，我也加给你名号。”并发现了以下默示的记录：“我凭公义兴起古列，又要修直他一切道路。他必建造我的城，释放我被掳的民，不是为工价，也不是为赏赐，”（赛45:4-6,13）他的心就大受感动，立志要完成上天所交派与他的使命。他要释放犹大的俘虏，他要帮助他们重建耶和华的圣殿。[20]{PK 557.2}
§42
As the king saw the words foretelling, more than a hundred years before his birth, the manner in which Babylon should be taken; as he read the message addressed to him by the Ruler of the universe, I girded thee, though thou hast not known Me: that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside Me; as he saw before his eyes the declaration of the eternal God, For Jacob My servants sake, and Israel Mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known Me; as he traced the inspired record, I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build My city, and he shall let go My captives, not for price nor reward, his heart was profoundly moved, and he determined to fulfill his divinely appointed mission. Isaiah 45:5, 6, 4, 13. He would let the Judean captives go free; he would help them restore the temple of Jehovah.{PK 557.2}[20]
§43
古列在一道“通告全国”的诏书中，说明了他准备使希伯来人回国并重建他们的圣殿的意愿。王在这诏书中感激地承认说：“耶和华天上的上帝已将天下万国赐给我，又嘱咐我在犹大的耶路撒冷为他建造殿宇。在你们中间凡作他子民的，可以上犹大的耶路撒冷，在耶路撒冷重建耶和华以色列上帝的殿（只有他是上帝），愿上帝与这人同在。凡剩下的人，无论寄居何处，那地的人要用金银财物牲畜帮助他；另外也要为耶路撒冷上帝的殿，甘心献上礼物。”（拉1:1-4）[21]{PK 558.1}
§44
In a written proclamation published throughout all his kingdom, Cyrus made known his desire to provide for the return of the Hebrews and for the rebuilding of their temple. The Lord God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth, the king gratefully acknowledged in this public proclamation; and He hath charged me to build Him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you of all His people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, . . . and build the house of the Lord God of Israel, (He is the God,) which is in Jerusalem. And whosoever remaineth in any place where he sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, beside the freewill offering. Ezra 1:1-4.{PK 558.1}[21]
§45
他更进一步降旨论到圣殿的构造，说：“要建造这殿为献祭之处，坚立殿的根基。殿高六十肘，宽六十肘。用三层大石头，一层新木头，经费要出于王库。并且上帝殿的金银器皿，就是尼布甲尼撒从耶路撒冷的殿中掠到巴比伦的，要归还带到耶路撒冷的殿中。”（拉6:3-5）[22]{PK 558.2}
§46
Let the house be builded, he further directed regarding the temple structure, the place where they offered sacrifices, and let the foundations thereof be strongly laid; the height thereof threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof threescore cubits; with three rows of great stones, and a row of new timber: and let the expenses be given out of the kings house: and also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth out of the temple which is at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and brought again unto the temple which is at Jerusalem. Ezra 6:3-5.{PK 558.2}[22]
§47
这道诏令的信息传遍了波斯国最遥远的省份，所以分散在各处的以色列民都大为欣喜。许多人也像但以理一样，曾经常研究预言，并祈求上帝实现他为锡安而伸手行事的应许。这时他们的祈祷已蒙应允，他们便可满心快乐地同声歌唱：“当耶和华将那些被掳的带回锡安的时候，我们好像作梦的人。我们满口喜笑、满舌欢呼的时候，外邦中就有人说：耶和华为他们行了大事！耶和华果然为我们行了大事，我们就欢喜。”（诗126:1-3）[23]{PK 558.3}
§48
Tidings of this decree reached the farthermost provinces of the kings realm, and everywhere among the children of the dispersion there was great rejoicing. Many, like Daniel, had been studying the prophecies, and had been seeking God for His promised intervention in behalf of Zion. And now their prayers were being answered; and with heartfelt joy they could unite in singing: When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, We were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing: Then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them. The Lord hath done great things for us; Whereof we are glad. Psalm 126:1-3.{PK 558.3}[23]
§49
“于是犹大和便雅悯的族长、祭司、利未人，就是一切被上帝激动他心的人，”这是相当多的“余民”，为数约五万之众，来自流亡各地的犹太人群中，他们决心趁着这给予他们的绝好机会：“上耶路撒冷去建造耶和华的殿。”他们的朋友们也没有让他们空手而去。“他们四围的人就拿银器、金子、财物、牲畜、珍宝帮助他们。”除了这些和其他许多甘心奉献的礼物之外，还有“耶和华殿的器皿，……这器皿是尼布甲尼撒从耶路撒冷掠来；……波斯王古列派库官米提利达将这器皿拿出来，……共有五千四百件，专供那将要重建的圣殿之用。”（拉1:5-11）[24]{PK 559.1}
§50
The chief of the fathers of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests, and the Levites, with all them whose spirit God had raised--these were the goodly remnant, about fifty thousand strong, from among the Jews in the lands of exile, who determined to take advantage of the wonderful opportunity offered them to go up to build the house of the Lord which is in Jerusalem. Their friends did not permit them to go empty-handed. All they that were about them strengthened their hands with vessels of silver, with gold, with goods, and with beasts, and with precious things. And to these and many other voluntary offerings were added the vessels of the house of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzar had brought forth out of Jerusalem; . . . even those did Cyrus king of Persia bring forth by the hand of Mithredath the treasurer, . . . five thousand and four hundred in number, for use in the temple that was to be rebuilt. Ezra 1:5-11.{PK 559.1}[24]
§51
古列派大卫王的一个后裔所罗巴伯（又名设巴萨），负责作那回到犹大地之人的省长，同他一起的有大祭司约书亚。他们长途跋涉，经过旷野荒漠之地，终于平安到达，于是这快乐的人群心中感谢上帝多方面的恩典，便立即下手重新兴建过去被拆毁破坏的一切。先由“族长”领先献上他们的财物，以补助重建圣殿的费用；众百姓则效法他们的榜样，从自己有限的财物中自由奉献（见拉2:64-70）。[25]{PK 559.2}
§52
Upon Zerubbabel (known also as Sheshbazzar), a descendant of King David, Cyrus placed the responsibility of acting as governor of the company returning to Judea; and with him was associated Joshua the high priest. The long journey across the desert wastes was accomplished in safety, and the happy company, grateful to God for His many mercies, at once undertook the work of re-establishing that which had been broken down and destroyed. The chief of the fathers led out in offering of their substance to help defray the expense of rebuilding the temple; and the people, following their example, gave freely of their meager store. See Ezra 2:64-70.{PK 559.2}[25]
§53
他们尽速在圣殿院内祭坛的旧址筑了一座坛。于是众民“如同一人，聚集在耶路撒冷，”参赴献坛礼以及一切有关的活动，他们在那里共同恢复那在尼布甲尼撒毁坏耶路撒冷时中断了的神圣崇祀。当他们分散而去住在他们所致力重建的家园之前，他们又“守住棚节。”（拉3:1-6）[26]{PK 560.1}
§54
As speedily as possible, an altar was erected on the site of the ancient altar in the temple court. To the exercises connected with the dedication of this altar, the people had gathered themselves together as one man; and there they united in re-establishing the sacred services that had been interrupted at the time of the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. Before separating to dwell in the homes they were endeavoring to restore, they kept also the Feast of Tabernacles. Ezra 3:1-6.{PK 560.1}[26]
§55
每日献燔祭之坛的恢复，使这班忠心的“余民”大觉欣慰。他们热切地着手进行重建圣殿一切必要的准备工作，并随筹建工作的逐月进展而增加了勇气。他们被剥夺了那显明上帝临格的可见表征已有多年。而这时他们四围既然都是一些令他们想起祖先背道的可悲之物，他们就渴望看到某种经常显明神圣赦免与恩眷的表征。他们重视上帝的嘉纳，过于收复个人的财产和往昔的权利。他虽已为他们行了奇事，而且他们也确实体认到他常与他们同在，然而他们仍渴慕更大的恩惠。他们怀着欢乐的心情，期待着将来在圣殿重新建成之后，可以看到他的荣耀从其中照耀出来的那一天。[27]{PK 560.2}
§56
The setting up of the altar of daily burnt offerings greatly cheered the faithful remnant. Heartily they entered into the preparations necessary for the rebuilding of the temple, gathering courage as these preparations advanced from month to month. They had for many years been deprived of the visible tokens of Gods presence. And now, surrounded as they were by many sad reminders of the apostasy of their fathers, they longed for some abiding token of divine forgiveness and favor. Above the regaining of personal property and ancient privileges, they valued the approval of God. Wonderfully had He wrought in their behalf, and they felt the assurance of His presence with them; yet they desired greater blessings still. With joyous anticipation they looked forward to the time when, with temple rebuilt, they might behold the shining forth of His glory from within.{PK 560.2}[27]
§57
筹备建筑材料的工人在废墟中找到了一些巨大的基石，是从前在所罗门的日子运到圣殿基地的。这些石头预备好了待用，同时许多新的材料也预备妥当了。于是工程很快地就进展，到了必须奠立基石的阶段。这项奠基礼是当着成千上万前来参观工程进行的人举行的，他们也因自己的得与这圣工有分而深表快乐。当奠立房角石的时候，全体民众在祭司的号筒和亚萨子孙的铜钹伴奏之下，“彼此唱和、赞美称谢耶和华说，他本为善；他向以色列人永发慈爱。”（拉3:11）[28]{PK 563.1}
§58
The workmen engaged in the preparation of the building material, found among the ruins some of the immense stones brought to the temple site in the days of Solomon. These were made ready for use, and much new material was provided; and soon the work was advanced to the point where the foundation stone must be laid. This was done in the presence of many thousands who had assembled to witness the progress of the work and to give expression to their joy in having a part in it. While the cornerstone was being set in position, the people, accompanied by the trumpets of the priests and the cymbals of the sons of Asaph, sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because He is good, for His mercy endureth forever toward Israel. Verse 11.{PK 563.1}[28]
§59
这行将重建的圣殿，乃是许多论到上帝乐愿向锡安彰显眷爱之预言的主题，因此凡参赴奠基礼的人，按理都当热烈地感应当时的欢乐精神。可是当这欢乐的一天，却听到在音乐和赞美的呼声中掺杂着不谐之音。“有许多祭司、利未人、族长，就是见过旧殿的老年人，现在亲眼看见立这殿的根基，便大声哭号。”（拉3:12）[29]{PK 563.2}
§60
The house that was about to be rebuilt had been the subject of many prophecies concerning the favor that God desired to show Zion, and all who were present at the laying of the cornerstone should have entered heartily into the spirit of the occasion. Yet mingled with the music and the shouts of praise that were heard on that glad day, was a discordant note. Many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice. Verse 12. {PK 563.2}[29]
§61
当这些老年人想到长期怙恶不悛的结果时，他们自然觉得满心忧愁。他们和他们同时代的人若顺从上帝，并实行他为以色列所定的旨意，那么所罗门所建造的圣殿就不至于被毁坏，而被掳的事也就不必要了。可惜由于忘恩负义与不忠不信，他们终于被分散在外邦人中了。[30]{PK 564.1}
§62
It was natural that sadness should fill the hearts of these aged men, as they thought of the results of long-continued impenitence. Had they and their generation obeyed God, and carried out His purpose for Israel, the temple built by Solomon would not have been destroyed and the captivity would not have been necessary. But because of ingratitude and disloyalty they had been scattered among the heathen.{PK 564.1}[30]
§63
现在情形改变了，主已本乎他仁慈的怜悯再度眷顾他的子民，并且容许他们归回故土。他们因过去的错误而生的悲哀，这时应变为极大的喜乐之情。上帝既已感动古列的心，来帮助他们重建圣殿，这事理应使他们深表感恩。可是有一些人没有看清上帝明显的圣意。他们非但不感欣喜，反而怀藏不满和灰心的情绪。他们曾见过所罗门圣殿的荣耀，所以他们便因现在所造的殿不如以前而悲哀起来。[31]{PK 564.2}
§64
Conditions were now changed. In tender mercy the Lord had again visited His people and allowed them to return to their own land. Sadness because of the mistakes of the past should have given way to feelings of great joy. God had moved upon the heart of Cyrus to aid them in rebuilding the temple, and this should have called forth expressions of profound gratitude. But some failed of discerning Gods opening providences. Instead of rejoicing, they cherished thoughts of discontent and discouragement. They had seen the glory of Solomons temple, and they lamented because of the inferiority of the building now to be erected.{PK 564.2}[31]
§65
当时这些悲叹和怨言，以及所作不怀善意的比较，在许多人心中留下了使人丧气的影响，结果便使匠人的手“发软。”工人因而发行疑问：这座在奠基之初就备受批评、并引起悲戚的殿宇，他们应否继续进行建造呢？[32]{PK 564.3}
§66
The murmuring and complaining, and the unfavorable comparisons made, had a depressing influence on the minds of many and weakened the hands of the builders. The workmen were led to question whether they should proceed with the erection of a building that at the beginning was so freely criticized and was the cause of so much lamentation.{PK 564.3}[32]
§67
幸而会众中还有许多人，因为具有更大的信心和更远的眼光，并没有对这较小的荣耀表示不满。当时“也有许多人大声欢呼，甚至百姓不能分辨欢呼的声音和哭号的声音，因为众人大声呼喊，声音听到远处。”（拉3:12-13）[33]{PK 564.4}
§68
There were many in the congregation, however, whose larger faith and broader vision did not lead them to view this lesser glory with such dissatisfaction. Many shouted aloud for joy: so that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off. Verses 12, 13.{PK 564.4}[33]
§69
那些在奠立圣殿根基时没有一同欢乐的人，若能预见自己当日缺少信心的结果，他们就必心惊胆颤了。他们既没有体会到自己非难和灰心的话语所有的分量，也没有领悟到自己所表示的不满之情，如何大大地阻延了主殿的落成。[34]{PK 565.1}
§70
Could those who failed to rejoice at the laying of the foundation stone of the temple have foreseen the results of their lack of faith on that day, they would have been appalled. Little did they realize the weight of their words of disapproval and disappointment; little did they know how much their expressed dissatisfaction would delay the completion of the Lords house.{PK 565.1}[34]
§71
第一座圣殿的壮丽雄伟，以及其宗教崇祀的隆重礼节，乃是以色列人在被掳之前经常引以自豪的。但他们的敬拜却往往缺少上帝所视为最重要的成分。第一座圣殿的荣耀及其仪节的煊赫，并不能使他们得蒙上帝的悦纳，因为那在他看来唯一最有价值的，他们并没有献上。他们没有以痛悔谦卑的心为祭献给他。[35]{PK 565.2}
§72
The magnificence of the first temple, and the imposing rites of its religious services, had been a source of pride to Israel before their captivity; but their worship had ofttimes been lacking in those qualities which God regards as most essential. The glory of the first temple, the splendor of its service, could not recommend them to God; for that which is alone of value in His sight, they did not offer. They did not bring Him the sacrifice of a humble and contrite spirit.{PK 565.2}[35]
§73
每当上帝国度的基本原则被轻视之时，宗教的仪式就变为繁累奢侈了。每当品格的建立被疏忽，心灵的美饰有缺欠，而纯真的敬虔也被鄙弃之时，骄傲与爱好炫耀的心就必贪慕壮丽的教堂、华美的装饰和堂皇的仪式。但上帝在这一切的事上是得不到荣耀的。他之所以珍视他的教会，不是因为她外表的优美，而是因为她具有那使她与世俗有别的真诚的敬虔。他对于教会所作的估计，乃是根据其会友在认识基督方面的长进，以及他们属灵经验的进步程度。他所注重的是仁爱与良善的原则。一切艺术方面的荣美，都不足与凡作基督代表之人所表现的性情和品格方面的优美相比。[36]{PK 565.3}
§74
It is when the vital principles of the kingdom of God are lost sight of, that ceremonies become multitudinous and extravagant. It is when the character building is neglected, when the adornment of the soul is lacking, when the simplicity of godliness is despised, that pride and love of display demand magnificent church edifices, splendid adornings, and imposing ceremonials. But in all this God is not honored. He values His church, not for its external advantages, but for the sincere piety which distinguishes it from the world. He estimates it according to the growth of its members in the knowledge of Christ, according to their progress in spiritual experience. He looks for the principles of love and goodness. Not all the beauty of art can bear comparison with the beauty of temper and character to be revealed in those who are Christs representatives.{PK 565.3}[36]
§75
一个教会团体可能是地上最贫穷的，它可能在外表上毫无动人之处，但如果其中的分子具有基督圣德的特质，天使就必来参加他们的崇拜。他们从感恩之心所发出的赞美与感谢，必如馨香的供物升达上帝面前。“你们要称谢耶和华，因他本为善，他的慈爱永远长存。愿耶和华的赎民说这话，就是他从敌人手中所救赎的。要向他唱诗歌颂，谈论他一切奇妙的作为。要以他的圣名夸耀，寻求耶和华的人心中应当欢喜。因他使心里渴慕的人得以知足，使心里饥饿的人得饱美物。”（诗107:1-2；105:2-3；107:9）[37]{PK 566.1}
§76
A congregation may be the poorest in the land. It may be without the attractions of any outward show; but if the members possess the principles of the character of Christ, angels will unite with them in their worship. The praise and thanksgiving from grateful hearts will ascend to God as a sweet oblation. Give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: For His mercy endureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy. Sing unto Him, sing psalms unto Him: Talk ye of all His wondrous works. Glory ye in His holy name: Let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. For He satisfieth the longing soul, And filleth the hungry soul with goodness. Psalm 107:1, 2; 105:2, 3; Psalm 107:9.{PK 566.1}[37]