Ezra 7:1

KJV

¶ Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,

KJV (with Strong's)

Now after {H310} these things {H1697}, in the reign {H4438} of Artaxerxes {H783} king {H4428} of Persia {H6539}, Ezra {H5830} the son {H1121} of Seraiah {H8304}, the son {H1121} of Azariah {H5838}, the son {H1121} of Hilkiah {H2518},

Complete Jewish Bible

After these events, during the reign of Artach'shashta king of Persia, 'Ezra the son of S'rayah, the son of 'Azaryah, the son of Hilkiyah,

Berean Standard Bible

Many years later, during the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,

American Standard Version

Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 7:1 serves as a pivotal transition in the book of Ezra, bridging the gap between the initial return of exiles and the rebuilding of the Temple (chapters 1-6) and the subsequent spiritual reformation led by Ezra. This verse introduces Ezra, a key figure in post-exilic Judah, by establishing his historical context within the reign of Artaxerxes I and meticulously detailing his significant priestly lineage, thereby validating his authority for the profound spiritual work that lies ahead.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 7:1 marks a dramatic shift in the book's narrative, following a substantial chronological gap of approximately 60 years after the dedication of the Second Temple in [Ezra 6:15](/ezra/6-15 "Ezra 6:15 - Completion of the Temple"). The preceding chapters focused on the physical restoration of Jerusalem and its worship infrastructure under Zerubbabel and Joshua. This verse, with its opening phrase "Now after these things," signals a new phase, moving from the physical rebuilding of the Temple to the spiritual rebuilding of the community through the Law. It also introduces the book's second major protagonist, Ezra, whose arrival will catalyze a profound religious and social reform, shifting the narrative's focus from temple construction to covenant fidelity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The mention of "Artaxerxes king of Persia" specifically refers to Artaxerxes I Longimanus, who reigned from 465 to 424 BC. Ezra's journey to Jerusalem occurred in the seventh year of his reign (around 458 BC), as noted in [Ezra 7:7](/ezra/7-7 "Ezra 7:7 - Ezra's Arrival in Jerusalem"). At this time, Judah was a small province within the vast Achaemenid Persian Empire. Persian policy, particularly under kings like Cyrus and Darius, generally allowed conquered peoples a degree of religious and cultural autonomy, often supporting the restoration of local cults as a means of maintaining stability. This policy provided the framework for the Jewish exiles' return and the rebuilding efforts. The detailed genealogy of Ezra was crucial in this cultural context, as lineage established social standing, priestly authority, and legitimacy, particularly for someone undertaking a significant religious mission under imperial patronage.
* **Key Themes:** This introductory verse immediately highlights several key themes central to the book of Ezra and the broader post-exilic narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Timing and Providence**, demonstrating God's strategic raising of leaders for specific seasons—after the physical temple was complete, a spiritual leader was needed. Secondly, it emphasizes the **Importance of Righteous Leadership**, as Ezra is presented as a man of significant heritage and divine calling, poised to guide the people back to God's commands. His name, meaning "help" or "Yahweh helps," foreshadows his role. Thirdly, the detailed **Continuity of Priestly Lineage** is paramount, connecting Ezra directly to the high priestly line of Aaron through Seraiah, who was the high priest at the time of Jerusalem's destruction by Babylon, as recorded in [2 Kings 25:18-21](/2_kings/25-18 "2 Kings 25:18-21 - Seraiah's Execution"). This lineage not only validated Ezra's authority but also underscored the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people, even through periods of judgment and exile. This emphasis on the Law and its proper observance becomes the dominant theme of [Ezra 7](/ezra/7 "Ezra 7 - Ezra's Journey to Jerusalem") onward.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Artaxerxes (Persian, _Artakhshatra'_):** This name is a royal title rather than a personal name, meaning "he whose empire is through righteousness" or "great warrior." Its mention here is crucial for dating Ezra's mission and placing it within the historical framework of the Persian Empire. The specific Artaxerxes is Artaxerxes I Longimanus, whose reign provided a period of relative stability and imperial support for the Jewish community's efforts to re-establish itself in Judah.
* **Ezra (Hebrew, _'Ezra'_):** Derived from the root עזר (_'azar_), meaning "to help" or "to aid," the name Ezra fittingly encapsulates his future role as a divinely appointed helper and restorer for his people. He is presented as a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, a figure divinely prepared to bring spiritual aid and renewal to the post-exilic community.
* **Seraiah (Hebrew, _Serayah'_):** Seraiah was the high priest at the time of the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, executed by Nebuchadnezzar (cf. [2 Kings 25:18-21](/2_kings/25-18 "2 Kings 25:18-21 - Seraiah's Execution")). By tracing Ezra's lineage directly to Seraiah, the text emphasizes Ezra's legitimate claim to priestly authority and his deep connection to the historical priesthood, linking him to a lineage that suffered greatly but endured.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ Now after these things,"**: This phrase serves as a significant temporal marker, signaling a new section and a considerable time gap following the events of Ezra chapter 6. It indicates that the narrative is advancing from the completion of the Temple to a new phase of Israel's restoration, focusing on spiritual and legal matters.
* **"in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia,"**: This precisely dates Ezra's mission, placing it within the rule of Artaxerxes I Longimanus (465-424 BC). This historical anchoring is vital for understanding the political and imperial context in which Ezra operated and received his commission.
* **"Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,"**: This detailed genealogy establishes Ezra's identity and, more importantly, his legitimate priestly authority. Tracing his lineage back through prominent high priests like Seraiah and Hilkiah (who found the Book of the Law in [2 Kings 22:8](/2_kings/22-8 "2 Kings 22:8 - Hilkiah Finds the Book of the Law")) underscores his qualifications and divine appointment for the task of restoring the Law among the exiles.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Transition** is evident in the opening phrase "Now after these things," which signals a shift in both time and narrative focus within the book, moving from physical rebuilding to spiritual restoration. The extensive **Genealogy** provided for Ezra is not merely a list of names; it functions as a powerful device to establish his legitimacy, authority, and connection to the historical high priestly line, thereby validating his upcoming role as a religious reformer. This detailed lineage also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the profound impact Ezra will have, as his heritage links him directly to those who previously held significant roles in Israel's spiritual life, such as Hilkiah, who rediscovered the Law.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 7:1 profoundly illustrates God's sovereign timing and His commitment to His covenant people, even through periods of exile and apparent dormancy. After the physical structure of the Temple was re-established, God raised up Ezra, a man of impeccable priestly lineage and spiritual devotion, to address the deeper spiritual and moral decay within the community. This highlights a recurring biblical pattern: God provides the right leader for the right season, equipping individuals not just with natural abilities but with spiritual authority derived from their faithfulness and, in Ezra's case, their heritage. The meticulous listing of Ezra's ancestry underscores the enduring nature of God's promises to the Levitical priesthood and His intention to restore His people not just physically, but spiritually through adherence to His Law.

* [Nehemiah 8:1-8](/nehemiah/8-1 "Nehemiah 8:1-8 - Ezra Reads the Law")
* [1 Chronicles 6:1-15](/1_chronicles/6-1 "1 Chronicles 6:1-15 - Lineage of Aaron")
* [Haggai 1:1-11](/haggai/1-1 "Haggai 1:1-11 - Call to Rebuild the Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 7:1 invites us to consider God's strategic and patient work in the lives of individuals and communities. Just as Ezra was prepared over decades and then called forth at a precise moment in history to lead a spiritual revival, so too does God prepare and call believers today for specific purposes. This verse encourages us to recognize that spiritual restoration often follows physical provision, emphasizing that true flourishing requires both. We are reminded of the importance of spiritual heritage, not as a source of pride, but as a testament to God's faithfulness across generations and a foundation for present-day service. It challenges us to consider our own preparation and readiness for God's call, whether it involves personal spiritual discipline, leading others, or engaging in the work of biblical literacy and discipleship. Our authority and effectiveness in ministry, like Ezra's, are ultimately rooted in our connection to God and His Word.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does recognizing God's perfect timing in Ezra's life encourage you in seasons of waiting or preparation?**
* **In what areas of your life or community is spiritual restoration needed after a period of "physical" building or activity?**
* **How does Ezra's deep connection to his spiritual heritage inspire you to value and engage with your own spiritual lineage or the history of faith?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the 60-year gap between Ezra 6 and Ezra 7?**

Answer: The 60-year gap between the completion of the Temple (around 516 BC, [Ezra 6:15](/ezra/6-15 "Ezra 6:15 - Completion of the Temple")) and Ezra's arrival in Jerusalem (around 458 BC, [Ezra 7:7](/ezra/7-7 "Ezra 7:7 - Ezra's Arrival in Jerusalem")) is highly significant. It highlights God's strategic timing. While the physical structure of the Temple was rebuilt, the spiritual condition of the people had likely stagnated or declined during this period. The gap underscores that the physical presence of the Temple alone was insufficient for true restoration; a spiritual revival, led by a dedicated scribe and priest like Ezra, was necessary to re-establish the Law and covenant fidelity among the returned exiles. This period also allows for the reign of Xerxes I (Ahasuerus in the book of Esther) to occur between the events of [Ezra 6](/ezra/6 "Ezra 6 - Dedication of the Temple") and [Ezra 7](/ezra/7 "Ezra 7 - Ezra's Journey to Jerusalem").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 7:1, in introducing Ezra as a priest and scribe dedicated to the Law, points forward to the ultimate and perfect fulfiller of all these roles in Jesus Christ. Ezra's mission was to restore the Law and bring the people back to covenant obedience, a necessary but ultimately incomplete work due to human sinfulness. Jesus, however, is the one who perfectly fulfills the Law, not by abolishing it but by bringing it to its intended purpose (cf. [Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). As the true and greater High Priest, not merely of a human lineage but after the order of Melchizedek, Jesus offers a perfect and eternal sacrifice for sin, making continuous atonement unnecessary (cf. [Hebrews 7:26-27](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26-27 - Jesus, Our Perfect High Priest")). While Ezra brought spiritual aid and renewal through the written Law, Christ brings ultimate spiritual renewal and eternal life through the new covenant, written on hearts by the Spirit (cf. [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant")). Ezra's diligent study and teaching of God's Word foreshadow the living Word, Jesus, who is the full revelation of God's truth and grace (cf. [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") and [John 1:17](/john/1-17 "John 1:17 - Grace and Truth Through Jesus Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Nehemiah 2:1

¶ And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, [that] wine [was] before him: and I took up the wine, and gave [it] unto the king. Now I had not been [beforetime] sad in his presence.

1 Chronicles 6:4

Eleazar begat Phinehas, Phinehas begat Abishua,

1 Chronicles 6:14

And Azariah begat Seraiah, and Seraiah begat Jehozadak,

2 Kings 22:4

Go up to Hilkiah the high priest, that he may sum the silver which is brought into the house of the LORD, which the keepers of the door have gathered of the people:

Ezra 7:12

Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven, perfect [peace], and at such a time.

Ezra 7:21

And I, [even] I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which [are] beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it be done speedily,

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.