1:1 sixth month . . . first day. Each of Haggai’s sermons is carefully dated. This one occurred probably on August 29, 520 b.c. Haggai’s message is addressed publicly to the leaders so that the people could respond as well (1:12).

Zerubbabel. He is likely the same person as Sheshbazzar (cf. Ezra 1:8), since both are said to have rebuilt the temple. Sheshbazzar could be an official Persian name. Zerubbabel was the grandson of King Jehoiachin (1 Chr. 3:19) and a descendant of David (2:23 note).

Joshua the son of Jehozadak. See 1 Chr. 6:15. A descendant of Zadok the priest. Under Persian rule, Zerubbabel had responsibility over the daily civil affairs of the region. As high priest, Joshua dealt with religious matters.