Esdras et Néhémie

Board Games: Rebuild Ancient Jerusalem

In this captivating board game, plunge into the heart of history with Ezra and Nehemiah. In the first year of his reign, Cyrus the Great, King of Persia, proclaimed an edict to the Israelite exiles under his rule:

The Lord of heaven has entrusted to me all the kingdoms of the earth, and has commanded me to build a temple in Jerusalem. Let any of his people go to Jerusalem in Judah to build the temple of the Lord, the God of Israel. The survivors, wherever they may be, are to receive silver, gold, goods, livestock and offerings for God's temple in Jerusalem - Ezra 1:2-4.

Strategy and History: Board Games for Adults

Decades later, during the reign of Artaxerxes, the king noticed the sadness of his cupbearer, Nehemiah. Asked about his condition, Nehemiah replies:

May the king live forever! How can I not be saddened when the city of my ancestors lies in ruins, its gates consumed by fire? If it pleases you, and if I have found favor in your eyes, let me return to Judah to rebuild the city of my ancestors - Nehemiah 2:3-5 (paraphrased).

In Ezra & Nehemiah, your aim is to accumulate as many victory points as possible by rebuilding the temple, walls and gates of Jerusalem, while teaching the Torah to the returning exiles. Players can also develop their lands, explore settlements outside the walls or maintain the altar's sacred fire. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah will help you stay on track.

Over a period of 3 weeks (turns), use your cards, workers and resources to restore Jerusalem. After 6 days of labor, a sabbatical day of rest awaits you. Food and a balance sheet for the week are essential. The game concludes after the third Sabbath.