Prophecy in the Old Testament reached its greatest heights preceding and during the Babylonian exile. Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and the two Isaiahs made the most profound impressions on the religious development of the Israelite people. The period following the exile is characterized by the work of many prophets, some of whom produced writings that are preserved in the Old Testament. In general, these prophets were men of limited vision, but there were some exceptions, and the literature that belongs to this period contains some of the best insights found in any of the prophetic writings, although in most instances the authors of these passages are unknown. In this section, only those prophets for whom books in the Old Testament are named are discussed.
Haggai
When the exiles returned from Babylon, they experienced many bitter disappointments. Both Ezekiel and Deutero- Isaiah promised so much that the people expected an era of great happiness and material prosperity. However, despite the help and encouragement given the exiles by Cyrus, the Persian ruler, when they returned to their own land, they experienced miserable conditions. The land was neglected, the buildings were dilapidated, and the people who had remained behind had become careless and indifferent toward their religious obligations. To make matters worse, the neighboring states assumed a hostile attitude toward the Hebrews; in attempting to rebuild the walls of their city, the Hebrews found it necessary to have their swords close at hand while working with bricks and mortar. Under these conditions, Haggai appeared as a spokesman for Yahweh.
Haggai's message is essentially one of reproof because the people have neglected to rebuild the Temple so that Yahweh might dwell in their midst. The people responded to Haggai's message and set to work with a newfound will. Handicapped by a lack of means and materials, they did the best they could under the circumstances. When they had finished, Haggai told them that even though the building they erected was poor in comparison with the earlier Temple, Yahweh would be with them; in due time, the promises Yahweh made would be fully realized.
