Bible (ASV) 37: Haggai

The "Bible (ASV) 37: Haggai" is a book found in the Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament. It was written by the prophet Haggai around 520 BC, nearly two decades after Cyrus allowed the Jews to return from captivity in Babylon. Haggai believed that rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem was crucial for restoring religious practices and a sense of identity after a long exile. The book consists of two concise chapters, where Haggai encourages the people to proceed with the reconstruction of the temple. He blames a recent drought on the people's reluctance to rebuild, emphasizing the temple's importance for Jerusalem's glory. The book concludes with a prediction of the downfall of kingdoms and highlights Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, as the chosen leader of the Lord. While the language may not be as elaborate as other minor prophets' books, its message is clear and direct.