The Persian king Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple, but the work was halted by King Artaxerxes due to accusations from their enemies. King Darius later verified Cyrus' decree, and the temple was completed during his reign. Ezra, a scribe and priest, was granted permission by King Artaxerxes to return to Jerusalem and restore the temple and its worship, leading the people in repentance and reform after discovering they had intermarried with surrounding nations.