עזרא, פרק ד׳, פסוק כ״ד

The interruption in the building of the Temple in Jerusalem marks a transition in the return to Zion, creating a historical gap that spans the reigns of several Persian kings. During this time, the work on God's house came to a complete halt. This pause in construction extended from the beginning of the reign of Ahasuerus, continued throughout the rule of Artaxerxes, and lasted until the second year of the reign of Darius [ר' סעדיה גאון].

The exact identity and historical placement of Darius is a matter of discussion. One perspective outlines a clear sequence of three distinct kings: Cyrus, followed by Ahasuerus, who married Esther, and finally Darius, who was actually the son of Ahasuerus and Esther [רש״י]. Another approach suggests a different historical timeline, identifying Darius and Ahasuerus as the exact same person [אבן עזרא].

The delay of the building until the second year of Darius holds deep historical significance, as it ties directly into the precise calculation of the years of exile. The time that passed from the first year of the reign of Cyrus to the second year of Darius was exactly eighteen years. This specific timeframe was necessary to complete a full seventy years since the destruction of Jerusalem. From the moment the Temple was destroyed and Zedekiah was exiled until the first year of Cyrus, fifty-two years had passed. By adding the eighteen years during which the construction was paused, the seventy years of destruction were perfectly fulfilled. Only when this defined period came to an end in the second year of Darius did the building of the Temple resume, continuing without interruption until its final completion [רש״י].