Contradiction with Ezra 6:14
Despite the opposition in Ezra 4:23, here the elders of the Jews build and prosper through the prophesying of prophets, which demonstrates the continuation and success of the construction efforts.
Ezra 6:14: And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished [it], according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia. [commandment: Chaldee, decree]
Contradiction with Nehemiah 2:20
While in Ezra 4:23, the enemies succeed in halting the work, in Nehemiah 2:20, the Jews express confidence and determination to rebuild, declaring that they will rise and build despite opposition.
Nehemiah 2:20: Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.
Contradiction with Daniel 6:28
In Ezra 4:23, the work is stopped due to orders, but in Daniel 6:28, Daniel prospers under Darius' reign, showing success and progress despite potential opposition.
Daniel 6:28: So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.
Contradiction with Haggai 1:8
Ezra 4:23 chronicles a halt in building the temple, yet in Haggai 1:8, the instruction is to build the house that God may take pleasure in it, emphasizing continuation and divine support.
Haggai 1:8: Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house; and I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified, saith the LORD.
Contradiction with Zechariah 4:9
The verse in Ezra 4:23 halts temple work, but Zechariah 4:9 prophesies that Zerubbabel's hands will finish the temple, suggesting the inevitability of completion.
Zechariah 4:9: The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you.