3:10 when the builders laid the foundation. The focus of the narrative is the response of the people rather than the mechanics of construction. If the return of the temple articles encouraged the spirits of the people (1:9–11 note), much more did the laying of the foundation confirm their faith in God, who had promised restoration after exile (Deut. 30:1–5). Their expression of praise echoes exactly the dedication of Solomon’s temple (2 Chr. 5:13).