◄ Ezra 7 ►
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Ezra Arrives in Jerusalem 1Many years later,a during the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah, 2the son of Shallum, the son of Zadok, the son of Ahitub, 3the son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth, 4the son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki, 5the son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the chief priest— 6this Ezra came up from Babylon. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted Ezra all his requests, for the hand of the LORD his God was upon him. 7So in the seventh year of King Artaxerxes, he went up to Jerusalem with some of the Israelites, including priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, and temple servants.b 8Ezra arrived in Jerusalem in the fifth month of the seventh year of the king. 9He had begun the journey from Babylon on the first day of the first month, and he arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month, for the gracious hand of his God was upon him. 10For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel. Artaxerxes’ Letter for Ezra 11This is the text of the letter King Artaxerxes had given to Ezra the priest and scribe, an expert in the commandments and statutes of the LORD to Israel:c 12Artaxerxes, king of kings. To Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven: Greetings.d 13I hereby decree that any volunteers among the Israelites in my kingdom, including the priests and Levites, may go up with you to Jerusalem. 14You are sent by the king and his seven counselors to evaluate Judah and Jerusalem according to the Law of your God, which is in your hand. 15Moreover, you are to take with you the silver and gold that the king and his counselors have freely offered to the God of Israel, whose dwelling is in Jerusalem, 16together with all the silver and gold you may find in all the province of Babylon, as well as the freewill offerings of the people and priests to the house of their God in Jerusalem. 17With this money, therefore, you are to buy as many bulls, rams, and lambs as needed, together with their grain offerings and drink offerings, and offer them on the altar at the house of your God in Jerusalem. 18You and your brothers may do whatever seems best with the rest of the silver and gold, according to the will of your God. 19You must deliver to the God of Jerusalem all the articles given to you for the service of the house of your God. 20And if anything else is needed for the house of your God that you may have occasion to supply, you may pay for it from the royal treasury. 21I, King Artaxerxes, decree to all the treasurers west of the Euphrates:e Whatever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven, may require of you, it must be provided promptly, 22up to a hundred talents of silver,f a hundred cors of wheat,g a hundred baths of wine,h a hundred baths of olive oil,i and salt without limit. 23Whatever is commanded by the God of heaven must be done diligently for His house. For why should wrath fall on the realm of the king and his sons? 24And be advised that you have no authority to impose tribute, duty, or toll on any of the priests, Levites, singers, doorkeepers, temple servants, or other servants of this house of God. 25And you, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God, which you possess, are to appoint magistrates and judges to judge all the people west of the Euphrates—all who know the laws of your God. And you are to teach these laws to anyone who does not know them. 26If anyone does not keep the law of your God and the law of the king, let a strict judgment be executed against him, whether death, banishment, confiscation of property, or imprisonment. Ezra Blesses God 27Blessed be the LORD, the God of our fathers, who has put into the heart of the king to so honor the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, 28and who has shown me favor before the king, his counselors, and all his powerful officials. And because the hand of the LORD my God was upon me, I took courage and gathered the leaders of Israel to return with me. Footnotes: 1 a Literally After these things 7 b Hebrew Nethinim; also in verse 24 11 c The original text of Ezra 7:12–26 is in Aramaic. 12 d Aramaic Perfect now (probably a greeting) 21 e Aramaic beyond the River; also in verse 25 22 f 100 talents is approximately 3.77 tons or 3.42 metric tons of silver. 22 g 100 cors is approximately 624 bushels or 22,000 liters (probably about 19.2 tons or 17.4 metric tons of wheat). 22 h 100 baths is approximately 580 gallons or 2,200 liters of wine. 22 i Or 100 baths of oil; that is, approximately 580 gallons or 2,200 liters Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ezra 7 Summary Ezra Arrives in Jerusalem Verses 1–5 – Ezra’s Priestly Lineage A meticulous genealogy traces Ezra back to “Aaron the chief priest” (v. 5), anchoring his authority in the original priestly line and underscoring the continuity of worship from Sinai to post-exile Jerusalem. Verses 6–10 – Ezra’s Skill and Purpose Ezra is introduced as “a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses” (v. 6). With the favor of King Artaxerxes and “the good hand of the LORD his God upon him” (v. 6), he travels to Jerusalem. His personal mission statement appears in verse 10: “For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel”. Verses 11–20 – The King’s Letter and Commission Artaxerxes’ letter grants Ezra authority to appoint leaders, transport offerings, and carry silver and gold for temple service. The king directs local treasuries to supply up to “a hundred talents of silver … a hundred baths of wine, a hundred baths of oil, and salt without limit” (v. 22). Verses 21–26 – Authority and Provision The decree exempts temple workers from taxes and empowers Ezra to set up judges who will teach the Law. Penalties for defiance include “death, banishment, confiscation of goods, or imprisonment” (v. 26). Verses 27–28 – Ezra’s Praise and Resolve Ezra blesses “the LORD, the God of our fathers,” for moving the king’s heart and, “strengthened by the hand of the LORD my God,” gathers leading men for the journey (v. 27–28). Ezra 7 is a monumental chapter in the Bible as it introduces Ezra, a priest and a scribe, who is given the divine task of leading the exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. Ezra, a direct descendant of Aaron, is well-versed in the law of Moses. Given his expertise, King Artaxerxes entrusts him with the task of implementing the law among the Israelites and carrying out the restoration of Jerusalem. Historical Setting The year Isaiah 458 BC, the seventh year of Artaxerxes I. Nearly 80 years have passed since the first return under Zerubbabel (Ezra 1–2). The temple has stood completed for six decades (Ezra 6:15). Persian policy often encouraged loyal peoples to worship their gods for imperial stability; Ezra’s mission fits neatly into that strategy while serving God’s larger plan (Isaiah 45:13). Ezra the Scribe and Priest • Scribe: a specialist trained to copy, interpret, and teach Scripture. His expertise parallels later descriptions of lawyers in Jesus’ day (Luke 10:25). • Priest: descended from Aaron through Zadok, reinforcing the prophetic promise that faithful priests would always stand before God (1 Samuel 2:35). • Dual role: Teaching and sacrificial service combine in one leader, foreshadowing the ideal of “word and worship” united (Nehemiah 8:1–8). The Journey from Babylon to Jerusalem • Distance: roughly 900 miles (1,450 km) following the Euphrates bend, then south to Jerusalem. • Timing: Departed 1st day of month 1; arrived 1st day of month 5 (v. 9). Four months on foot and caravan match ancient travel speeds of 8–10 miles a day. • Companions: priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, and temple servants (Ezra 8). Their presence ensures immediate resumption of proper worship on arrival. Artaxerxes’ Decree: Political and Spiritual Implications • Political: Ezra becomes a royal envoy with the power to enforce Persian law alongside the Torah. The decree echoes earlier edicts (Ezra 1:2–4; 6:6–12). • Spiritual: The command to “teach those who do not know” (7:25) meets Hosea 4:6’s warning, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” • Tax exemption: Spurs dedicated service, recalling Numbers 18’s provision for Levites. Finances and Temple Worship • Silver and gold: 650 talents of silver approximate 24 tons, ample for utensils (1 Kings 7:48–50). • Sacrifices: bulls, rams, and lambs mirror Numbers 15:1–11 for communal offerings, ensuring covenant faithfulness. • Salt “without limit” (v. 22): Salt symbolized covenant permanence (Leviticus 2:13). Law, Teaching, and Reform Ezra’s threefold mission (study – practice – teach) becomes a template: 1. Head – know God’s Word (Deuteronomy 6:6). 2. Hands – obey it (James 1:22). 3. Voice – pass it on (2 Timothy 2:2). His later actions (Ezra 9–10) show how teaching led to national repentance. Archaeological Notes • Persian legal formulas in Ezra 7 match the Aramaic style of the Elephantine papyri (5th century BC), supporting authenticity. • Cuneiform tablets from Nippur record rations for Judean exiles—a backdrop to Ezra’s community. • The large stone temple platform in Jerusalem’s southeast corner dates to the Persian period, evidence of post-exile construction and maintenance projects. Connections to Other Scriptures • Genealogy: Exodus 6:16-25 lists Aaron’s sons; 1 Chronicles 6 mirrors Ezra 7’s names. • God’s hand: same phrase in Ezra 8:18, 22, 31; Nehemiah 2:8. • Royal favor: Joseph (Genesis 41) and Daniel (Daniel 6) also found favor with foreign kings for God’s purposes. • Teaching mission: Joshua’s charge (Joshua 1:8) and Great Commission (Matthew 28:20) both emphasize learning and doing. Lessons for Today • Spiritual preparation precedes effective service. Ezra studied long before he traveled. • Civic leaders can be instruments of God—believers should pray for and work with authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Generosity toward God’s work brings blessing; the Persian treasury models cheerful provision (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. This verse complements Ezra's dedication to the Law. Proverbs 21:1 The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases. This highlights God's control over earthly rulers, as seen in Ezra's story. 2 Timothy 2:15 Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth. This New Testament exhortation aligns with Ezra's commitment to the Law. Teaching Points Ezra's Lineage and Role Ezra 7:1-5 traces Ezra's lineage back to Aaron, the chief priest, establishing his authority and credibility as a leader and teacher of the Law. Ezra's Devotion to the Law Verse 10 highlights Ezra's dedication: For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel. This verse underscores the importance of personal commitment to God's Word. The King's Favor In verses 6 and 11-26, we see how God granted Ezra favor with King Artaxerxes, who provided him with resources and authority to lead the return to Jerusalem. This demonstrates God's sovereignty in using secular authorities to accomplish His purposes. The Hand of God Repeatedly, the chapter emphasizes the hand of the LORD his God was upon him (v. 6, 9, 28), indicating divine guidance and blessing on Ezra's mission. Ezra's Leadership Ezra's leadership was characterized by humility and reliance on God, as seen in his response of praise and thanksgiving in verses 27-28. Practical Applications Commitment to God's Word Like Ezra, we should set our hearts to study, practice, and teach God's Word in our daily lives. Recognizing God's Sovereignty Trust in God's ability to work through various circumstances and authorities to fulfill His plans. Seeking God's Favor Pray for God's hand to be upon us in our endeavors, recognizing that true success comes from His blessing. Leadership in Humility Emulate Ezra's example of humble leadership, giving glory to God for any achievements or progress. People 1. Ezra A scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, Ezra is the central figure in this chapter. He is described as having the hand of the LORD upon him, which enabled him to lead a group of exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. 2. Seraiah Ezra's father, Seraiah, was the last high priest before the destruction of the First Temple. His name in Hebrew (שְׂרָיָה) means "Yahweh is ruler." 3. Azariah The son of Seraiah, Azariah's name means "Yahweh has helped." He is part of the priestly lineage. 4. Hilkiah The father of Azariah, Hilkiah was a high priest during the reign of King Josiah and is known for finding the Book of the Law in the temple. 5. Shallum The father of Hilkiah, Shallum's name means "retribution" or "recompense." 6. Zadok The father of Shallum, Zadok was a high priest during the reigns of David and Solomon, known for his loyalty to King David. 7. Ahitub The father of Zadok, Ahitub's name means "brother of goodness." 8. Amariah The father of Ahitub, Amariah's name means "Yahweh has promised." 9. Azariah Another Azariah in the lineage, the father of Amariah, sharing the same meaning of "Yahweh has helped." 10. Meraioth The father of Azariah, Meraioth's name means "rebellious." 11. Zerahiah The father of Meraioth, Zerahiah's name means "Yahweh has risen." 12. Uzzi The father of Zerahiah, Uzzi's name means "my strength." 13. Bukki The father of Uzzi, Bukki's name means "wasting" or "emptying." 14. Abishua The father of Bukki, Abishua's name means "my father is rescue." 15. Phinehas The father of Abishua, Phinehas was known for his zealousness for God, which stopped a plague among the Israelites. 16. Eleazar The father of Phinehas, Eleazar was the son of Aaron and served as a priest during the Israelites' wanderings in the desert. 17. Aaron The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel, Aaron's name means "mountain of strength." Places 1. Babylon Ezra 7:6 mentions that Ezra came up from Babylon. Babylon was a major city in ancient Mesopotamia, located in what is now modern-day Iraq. It was the center of the Babylonian Empire and a place where many Jews, including Ezra, lived during the Babylonian exile. 2. Jerusalem Ezra 7:7 refers to the journey to Jerusalem. Jerusalem is the historic and spiritual center of the Jewish people, located in the land of Israel. It was the destination of Ezra's journey as he led a group of exiles back to their homeland to restore the religious practices and the temple. Events 1. Introduction of Ezra Ezra is introduced as a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses. The text highlights his lineage, tracing back to Aaron, the chief priest. This establishes his authority and credibility. ^"After these things, during the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah..."^ (Ezra 7:1) 2. Ezra's Journey to Jerusalem Ezra sets out from Babylon to Jerusalem with a group of Israelites, including priests and Levites. The journey is described as being under the good hand of God. ^"He came up from Babylon, and he was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted him all his requests, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him."^ (Ezra 7:6) 3. Artaxerxes' Letter to Ezra King Artaxerxes issues a decree granting Ezra authority to lead the Israelites and to ensure the observance of the Law of God in Judah and Jerusalem. ^"This is the text of the letter that King Artaxerxes gave to Ezra the priest, a scribe, an expert in matters of the commandments of the LORD and his statutes for Israel..."^ (Ezra 7:11) 4. Authorization to Appoint Judges and Magistrates Ezra is authorized to appoint judges and magistrates to administer justice according to the Law of God. This underscores the importance of the Torah in governance. ^"And you, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God, which you possess, appoint magistrates and judges to judge all the people in the province beyond the River—all who know the laws of your God. And you are to teach these laws to anyone who does not know them."^ (Ezra 7:25) 5. Provision for Temple Worship The decree includes provisions for the temple worship, including offerings and temple vessels, emphasizing the restoration of proper worship practices. ^"Furthermore, you are to take with you the silver and gold that the king and his counselors have freely given to the God of Israel, whose dwelling is in Jerusalem..."^ (Ezra 7:15) 6. Ezra's Praise to God Ezra concludes with a doxology, praising God for His favor and the king's support, acknowledging God's hand in the success of his mission. ^"Blessed be the LORD, the God of our fathers, who has put it into the king’s heart to bring honor to the house of the LORD in Jerusalem in this way..."^ (Ezra 7:27) Lessons from Ezra 7 1. The Importance of Knowing God's Word Ezra 7:10 tells us, "For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel." Ezra's dedication to understanding Scripture is a powerful reminder of the importance of immersing ourselves in God's Word. By knowing Scripture, we can better align our lives with God's will and be equipped to share His truth with others. 2. The Power of a Prepared Heart Ezra's journey begins with a heart prepared to seek the Lord. This preparation is not just about intellectual readiness but a deep, spiritual commitment. When we prepare our hearts to seek God, we open ourselves to His guidance and wisdom, allowing Him to work through us in mighty ways. 3. The Role of Leadership in Spiritual Revival Ezra was a leader who played a crucial role in the spiritual revival of Israel. His leadership was rooted in his devotion to God and His laws. As leaders in our communities, families, or workplaces, we can inspire others by living out our faith authentically and passionately. 4. God's Sovereignty in Our Lives Ezra 7:6 states, "This Ezra came up from Babylon. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted him everything he requested, for the hand of the LORD his God was upon him." This verse highlights God's sovereignty in orchestrating events for His purposes. Trusting in God's plan allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing He is in control. 5. The Blessing of Favor Ezra found favor with King Artaxerxes, which was a direct result of God's blessing. When we walk in obedience to God, we often find favor in unexpected places. This favor is not for our glory but to further God's kingdom and purposes. 6. The Importance of Community Support Ezra did not journey alone; he was accompanied by others who shared his vision. This underscores the importance of community in our spiritual walk. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers provides encouragement, accountability, and strength as we pursue God's calling. 7. The Value of Generosity In Ezra 7:15-16, the king and his counselors provide silver and gold for the temple. This act of generosity supports the work of God and demonstrates the impact of giving. Our resources, when used for God's purposes, can have a profound effect on advancing His kingdom. 8. The Necessity of Obedience Ezra's life exemplifies obedience to God's commands. His commitment to following God's laws serves as a model for us. Obedience is not always easy, but it is essential for living a life that honors God and reflects His character. 9. The Impact of Teaching God's Word Ezra was not only a student of the Word but also a teacher. By sharing God's statutes and ordinances, he helped guide the people of Israel back to a right relationship with God. Teaching others about God's Word is a powerful way to influence lives and bring about transformation. 10. The Assurance of God's Presence Throughout Ezra's journey, the hand of God was upon him, providing guidance and protection. This assurance of God's presence is available to us as well. When we seek Him with all our hearts, we can be confident that He is with us, leading us every step of the way. Topics 1. Genealogy of Ezra (Ezra 7:1-5) This section outlines the lineage of Ezra, tracing his ancestry back to Aaron, the chief priest. This establishes his legitimate priestly authority. The Hebrew term "בֶּן" (ben) is used repeatedly, meaning "son of," to denote lineage. 2. Ezra's Journey to Jerusalem (Ezra 7:6-10) Ezra is described as a skilled scribe in the Law of Moses, and he receives favor from King Artaxerxes to lead a group of Israelites back to Jerusalem. The Hebrew word "סֹפֵר" (sofer) refers to a scribe or scholar, emphasizing Ezra's expertise in the Law. 3. Artaxerxes' Letter to Ezra (Ezra 7:11-26) King Artaxerxes issues a decree granting Ezra authority to appoint magistrates and judges and to teach the Law. The letter underscores the king's support for Ezra's mission and the importance of adherence to God's Law. 4. Ezra's Praise to God (Ezra 7:27-28) Ezra concludes the chapter with a doxology, praising God for putting such a favorable decree in the king's heart and for extending mercy to him. The Hebrew root "חֶסֶד" (chesed) is often associated with God's loving-kindness and mercy, reflecting the divine favor Ezra acknowledges. Themes 1. The Hand of God Ezra 7 emphasizes the theme of God's providential hand guiding and supporting His people. In verse 6, it states, "The king had granted him everything he requested, for the hand of the LORD his God was upon him." The Hebrew word for "hand" (יָד, yad) signifies power and authority, highlighting God's active role in Ezra's mission. 2. The Law of the LORD A central theme is the importance of the Law. Verse 10 says, "For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel." The Hebrew word for "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah) underscores the divine instruction and guidance that Ezra was committed to upholding and disseminating. 3. Divine Favor and Authority The chapter illustrates the theme of divine favor and authority granted to Ezra. In verse 25, Ezra is instructed to appoint magistrates and judges, "according to the wisdom of your God, which is in your hand." This reflects the divine endorsement and authority bestowed upon Ezra to lead and govern. 4. Restoration and Reformation Ezra 7 highlights the theme of restoration and reformation of the Jewish community. The chapter details Ezra's journey to Jerusalem to restore the proper worship and adherence to God's laws, emphasizing the renewal of spiritual and communal life. 5. Generational Continuity The genealogy of Ezra in verses 1-5 underscores the theme of generational continuity and faithfulness. It traces Ezra's lineage back to Aaron, the chief priest, emphasizing the continuity of the priestly line and the enduring covenant relationship between God and His people. 6. Provision and Support The chapter also presents the theme of provision and support from both divine and earthly sources. In verses 15-20, King Artaxerxes provides silver, gold, and other resources for the temple, demonstrating how God uses earthly rulers to fulfill His purposes. 7. Obedience and Commitment Ezra's commitment to obeying and teaching God's law is a recurring theme. His dedication to studying, practicing, and teaching the law (verse 10) serves as a model of obedience and commitment to God's commands. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart for God's Word Ask God to instill in us a deep love and commitment to studying and living out His Word. Pray for Favor and Guidance Seek God's favor and guidance in our personal and communal endeavors, trusting in His sovereign plan. Pray for Godly Leadership Lift up leaders in the church and community, asking God to grant them wisdom, humility, and a heart for His purposes. Pray for Revival Request a spiritual awakening in our communities, similar to the revival led by Ezra, that turns hearts back to God. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ezra 7:1–5, how do we reconcile the seemingly abbreviated genealogy of Ezra with other Old Testament genealogical records that appear longer or contradictory? 2. In Ezra 7:6–7, is there any historical or archaeological evidence outside the Bible confirming Ezra’s authority and mission under Artaxerxes? 3. In Ezra 7:11–20, how could a foreign monarch have so willingly granted vast resources and freedom to a Jewish priest when such acts were uncommon in that era? 4. In Ezra 7:21–24, does the decree’s broad tax exemption align with known Persian administrative policies, or is it historically implausible? 5. In Ezra 7:25–26, are there extra-biblical sources supporting Ezra’s power to set up a judicial system in Judah, or might these verses reflect exaggerated claims? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Ezra's lineage establish his credibility as a leader? 2. What can we learn from King Artaxerxes' actions and how he treated Ezra? 3. In what ways does the king's decree reflect God’s sovereignty? 4. How does Ezra’s dedication to studying, observing, and teaching the law inspire your personal spiritual walk? 5. How do you see God's favor playing a role in Ezra's life, and how have you experienced God's favor in your own life? 6. How did Ezra respond to the decree of King Artaxerxes, and what can we learn from his reaction? 7. How can we apply the principles of obedience to God’s laws in our lives today? 8. How does Ezra 7 portray the importance of godly leadership? 9. In the modern world, what might "rebuilding the temple" symbolize in our personal lives? 10. How does Ezra model humility in his actions, and how can we follow his example? 11. How does Ezra 7 inspire you to use your skills and knowledge for God’s service? 12. How would you handle a situation where you are called to a leadership position like Ezra? 13. In today's context, how can we interpret the king's command to give generously to the house of God? 14. What role does prayer and thanksgiving play in Ezra's journey, and how does it apply to your life circumstances? 15. How does Ezra 7 emphasize the need for righteous judgment in society? 16. How would you respond if you were given the responsibility of enforcing God's laws like Ezra? 17. How does the theme of restoration and renewal in Ezra 7 apply to the church today? 18. In the light of Ezra 7, how can we view secular authorities and their potential roles in God's plan? 19. What does the role of Ezra tell us about God’s use of individuals for His grand purposes? 20. What steps can you take to prepare yourself, like Ezra did, if God calls you to a challenging task? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions