Ezra 7:11

¶ Now this [is] the copy of the letter that the king Artaxerxes gave unto Ezra the priest, the scribe, [even] a scribe of the words of the commandments of the LORD, and of his statutes to Israel.

Now this is the copy {H6572} of the letter {H5406} that the king {H4428} Artaxerxes {H783} gave {H5414} unto Ezra {H5830} the priest {H3548}, the scribe {H5608}, even a scribe {H5608} of the words {H1697} of the commandments {H4687} of the LORD {H3068}, and of his statutes {H2706} to Israel {H3478}.

Here is the letter that King Artach'shashta gave 'Ezra the cohen and Torah-teacher, the student of matters relating to ADONAI's mitzvot and his laws for Isra'el:

This 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:

Now this is the copy of the letter that the king Artaxerxes gave unto Ezra the priest, the scribe, even the scribe of the words of the commandments of Jehovah, and of his statutes to Israel:

Ezra 7:11 introduces the pivotal decree from King Artaxerxes I of Persia, which grants Ezra the priest and scribe significant authority to return to Jerusalem and establish the Law of God. This verse sets the stage for Ezra's crucial mission in the post-exilic restoration of Israel.

Context

This verse is situated in the historical period following the Babylonian exile, when many Jews had returned to Judah but were still under Persian rule. King Artaxerxes I, who reigned from 465-424 BC, issues a formal letter that empowers Ezra. Ezra is presented not merely as a royal official but primarily as a "priest" and a "scribe of the words of the commandments of the LORD." This dual identity underscores his spiritual authority and expertise in God's Law, which was essential for the spiritual rebuilding of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. This decree marks a significant moment in the second wave of returns from Babylon, focusing on spiritual and legal restoration rather than just physical rebuilding.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty and Favor: The passage showcases God's sovereign hand working through a pagan king, Artaxerxes, to facilitate His purposes for Israel. The king's decree is a testament to God's favor upon Ezra and His people, enabling the re-establishment of religious order in Jerusalem.
  • Ezra's Unique Authority: Ezra is uniquely qualified and divinely appointed for this task. His title as "the scribe, even a scribe of the words of the commandments of the LORD" highlights his profound knowledge and dedication to the Mosaic Law. This wasn't just a secular appointment; it was a recognition of his spiritual expertise and a divine empowerment for his mission. This mission was deeply rooted in Ezra's dedication to God's Law, as seen in his preparation to seek, do, and teach the Law.
  • The Centrality of God's Law: The emphasis on "the commandments of the LORD, and of his statutes to Israel" underscores the supreme importance of God's Law (Torah) as the foundation for the Jewish nation's identity, worship, and societal structure. This decree effectively grants Ezra the authority to enforce and teach this divine law.

Linguistic Insights

The term "scribe" (Hebrew: sopher) in this context is much more than a mere copyist. An Old Testament sopher was an expert in the Law, an interpreter, a teacher, and often a legal authority. Ezra's specific designation as "a scribe of the words of the commandments of the LORD" elevates his status beyond a civil administrator to a theological and legal expert entrusted with the sacred texts. The phrase "commandments of the LORD, and of his statutes" refers to the entire body of divine instruction given to Israel, often synonymous with the Torah or Mosaic Law.

Significance and Application

Ezra 7:11 illustrates how God uses individuals and even secular authorities to accomplish His redemptive plans. For believers today, this verse emphasizes the enduring value of God's Word. Just as Ezra was commissioned to restore the Law to Israel, Christians are called to diligently study, obey, and teach the Scriptures. This emphasis on the "commandments of the LORD" highlights the enduring importance of God's Word for guiding His people, much like the instruction given to Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law. The example of Ezra also reminds us of the importance of biblical literacy and the need for those who are dedicated experts in God's truth to guide and teach others.

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.

  • Mark 7:1

    ¶ Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem.

  • Mark 7:13

    Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.

  • Ezra 7:6

    This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he [was] a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him.

  • Ezra 4:11

    This [is] the copy of the letter that they sent unto him, [even] unto Artaxerxes the king; Thy servants the men on this side the river, and at such a time.

  • Matthew 23:2

    Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:

  • Ezra 5:6

    The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and his companions the Apharsachites, which [were] on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king:

  • Matthew 23:13

    But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in [yourselves], neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back