Ezra 7:1

¶ 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,

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},

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,

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

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,

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,"

Context of Ezra 7:1

Ezra 7:1 marks a significant transition in the book of Ezra, introducing the central figure of Ezra himself and setting the stage for the second major return of Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. The phrase "Now after these things" refers to the events described in the first six chapters, which detail the initial return under Zerubbabel and the completion of the Second Temple in Ezra 6:15. Critically, there is a substantial time gap of approximately 60 years between the dedication of the Temple (around 516 BC) and Ezra's arrival (around 458 BC).

This verse places Ezra's mission "in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia." This refers to Artaxerxes I Longimanus, who ruled the vast Persian Empire from 465 to 424 BC. His reign saw continued Persian dominance over the former Neo-Babylonian territories, including Judah. Ezra's arrival in Jerusalem during Artaxerxes' seventh year (as specified in Ezra 7:7) signifies a new phase in the post-exilic restoration, shifting focus from physical rebuilding to spiritual and legal reform.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Timing and Providence: The introduction of Ezra after a significant gap highlights God's perfect timing in raising up a new leader for the next phase of restoration. After the physical Temple was rebuilt, it was time for the spiritual foundations of the community to be re-established through the Law.
  • Introduction of a Pivotal Leader: This verse formally introduces Ezra, a figure whose name means "help" or "Yahweh helps," foreshadowing his vital role in guiding the Jewish people back to the Law of Moses. His character and mission are central to the book's narrative.
  • Continuity of Priestly Lineage: Ezra's detailed genealogy, tracing his lineage through Seraiah, Azariah, and Hilkiah, emphasizes his legitimate claim to priestly authority. Seraiah was the high priest executed by Nebuchadnezzar during the fall of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:18). This connection solidifies Ezra's roots in the historical priesthood and underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel, despite periods of exile and upheaval.

Linguistic Insights

The name Artaxerxes is Persian, generally understood to mean "he whose empire is through righteousness" or "great warrior." It's important for historical and biblical chronology to distinguish him from other Persian kings mentioned in scripture. The name Ezra (Hebrew: עֶזְרָא, 'Ezra') aptly reflects his role as one who brings aid and spiritual renewal. The meticulous listing of his priestly lineage, which can be further traced back to Aaron (as seen in 1 Chronicles 6:1-15), underscores the importance of heritage and divine appointment in ancient Israelite society, especially for those serving in religious capacities.

Practical Application

Ezra 7:1 teaches us about God's intentionality in raising up leaders for specific seasons and purposes. Just as Ezra was prepared and called to lead a spiritual revival after a period of physical rebuilding, so too does God equip individuals today for the work He has for them. This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of both physical and spiritual restoration in our lives and communities. It also highlights the value of spiritual heritage and the authority derived from faithfully living out one's calling, grounded in God's Word.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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.

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