Because of sin, God caused the kingdoms of Israel to be destroyed by Assyria and Judah by Babylon. Exiles were carried to both countries. Later Babylon was defeated, and the Jews allowed back, such as Ezra and Nehemiah. Esther stayed in exile.
Key points
God refines his people
God also judged Babylon
Ezra and then Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem
How can we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?
