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Did the Cyrus Cylinder Really Support Religious Freedom?

Compare the Cyrus Cylinder's content with Ezra's return decree—see how Persia used religion politically.

Timeline Focus: 538 BCE

✨The Surprising Reality

Cyrus claimed divine favor from Marduk and returned idols to their cities—setting a precedent echoed in Ezra 1.

🤔The Context Question

But here's what most people don't realize: this wasn't pure tolerance—it was a calculated strategy to win loyalty.

📚What We Know

The cylinder omits Jews but matches Ezra in tone. Persian records show temple-building across the empire. Use the source comparison tool to match imperial policy with biblical theology.

Explore the Full Context

Jump to 538 BC and see exactly how Cyrus framed religion—discover how God worked through imperial politics.

Explore Interactive Timeline & Map

See the complete historical context with our interactive map and timeline

🔗Related Topics

artifact

Cyrus Cylinder

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person

Ezra

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📖Biblical References

📜Ezra 1:1–4📜Isaiah 45:1

Scripture references supporting this historical context

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