Why is the completion of the Temple of Jerusalem such an important achievement?

Answer 1

Based on the way this question is phrased, it is unclear if the asker is looking for a discussion of the First Temple built by Solomon, the Second Temple built by Zerubbabel and Ezra, or the Third Temple as discussed by the Rabbis, but never actually constructed. As a result, this answer will discuss a little bit about each.

In general, the Temple in Jerusalem is important as it allows the Jews to perform 200 additional Mitzvot (Commandments) concerning sacrifices and sacrificial procedure. The Temple serves as a unifying symbol of Jewish Identity as well as a place of religious practice. When it existed, it occupied what Jews believe to be the holiest ground in all the Earth and allowed a much closer Divine-Human interaction.

1) First Temple: Solomon's Temple was the first time that the Jewish people had a permanent home to worship God. It allowed the Tabernacle to be put into retirement and made all of Israel united in a way that the country had not been before King Saul and really had not become until Davidic Times. It also demonstrated the wealth and power of Israel both in Allies (much of the wood was Lebanese Cedar given by King Hiram of the Phoenicians) and Territory (stone was quarried all over Israel for the Temple). The building was physically awe-inspiring.

2) Second Temple: The Second Temple was important because it represented the Return of Jews to the Holy Land after 70 Years of Exile. It marked a turning point in the Jewish experience because it showed that even when not living in the Land of Israel and not growing up in the Land Israel, Jews still had a connection to the land. Once again, it served to unite the Jewish community and provide a place for the High Priests to begin performing the Mitzvot once more.

3) Third Temple: Different rabbis argue different things about the Third Temple, but most claim that its construction will coincide with the arrival of the long-sought-after Messiah. It will also fundamentally change Judaism from the current religion it is, back to a religion with sacrifices and the ability for Jews to properly atone for their sins and impurities.