Cyrus issues a historic proclamation that sounds remarkably like the words of an Israelite king. Feeling a deep connection to God and a profound sense of duty to express his gratitude, the king calls for the rebuilding of the Temple. This is not a forced decree but a public, voluntary invitation to join a sacred mission [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The declaration is broadcast across all the kingdoms and nations under Cyrus's rule to locate the Jewish people scattered among them [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. Alternatively, this announcement is actually directed at the gentile nations themselves. Since only the Israelites are capable of building the Temple, the surrounding nations are instructed to assist them, send them off, and ensure they are allowed to leave [מלבי״ם].
The king is fully aware that the journey from Babylon to Judah is long and grueling. Knowing that not everyone will be willing to undertake such a hardship, he directs his invitation specifically to those who feel a genuine, inner desire to step forward [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. To these volunteers, Cyrus offers his official, public permission to make the journey [מצודת דוד]. He also offers a blessing that God will be with them and assist them along the way [רוב הפרשנים]. This divine assistance can be understood as an inner spiritual awakening that drives them to make the journey and build the Temple [מלבי״ם], or as practical support, providing them with the financial means necessary to fund their travel and the ensuing construction [אבן עזרא].
The proclamation concludes by identifying God in relation to Jerusalem. Some explain that this phrasing refers to the Temple that will be built in the city, rather than pinpointing God's location [אבן עזרא]. However, the primary approach among commentators is that Cyrus is declaring that the God of Israel is the Deity whose Divine Presence rests specifically in Jerusalem [מצודת דוד]. This reflects the king's worldview at the time. He believes that God's direct involvement and guidance are concentrated exclusively in Jerusalem, while the rest of the world is governed by the laws of nature and astrology. This perspective stands in contrast to the ultimate future vision, where the Temple will serve as a house of prayer for all nations, and God will be openly recognized as the ruler of the entire world [מלבי״ם].