Ezra 7:13

KJV

I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and [of] his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

I {H4481} make {H7761} a decree {H2942}, that all {H3606} they of {H4481} the people {H5972} of Israel {H3479}, and of his priests {H3549} and Levites {H3879}, in my realm {H4437}, which are minded of their own freewill {H5069} to go up {H1946} to Jerusalem {H3390}, go {H1946} with thee {H5974}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I decree that everyone in my realm who belongs to the people of Isra'el, including their cohanim and L'vi'im, who, of his own free will, chooses to go with you to Yerushalayim, should go.

Berean Standard Bible

I hereby decree that any volunteers among the Israelites in my kingdom, including the priests and Levites, may go up with you to Jerusalem.

American Standard Version

I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and their priests and the Levites, in my realm, that are minded of their own free will to go to Jerusalem, go with thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 7:13 presents a pivotal royal decree issued by King Artaxerxes I of Persia, granting explicit permission for any Israelite, including priests and Levites, residing within his vast empire to voluntarily journey to Jerusalem alongside Ezra. This remarkable edict highlights the providential hand of God at work through a pagan monarch, facilitating the continued restoration of the Jewish community's spiritual and civil life in their ancestral homeland after the Babylonian exile.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 7 marks a significant shift in the book's narrative, moving from the initial return under Zerubbabel and the rebuilding of the Temple (covered in [Ezra 1-6](/ezra/1-6 "Ezra 1-6 - First Return and Temple Rebuilding")) to the mission of Ezra. A substantial period of approximately 60 years has elapsed since the dedication of the Second Temple, leaving the community in Jerusalem in need of spiritual and administrative reform. Chapter 7 introduces Ezra as a central figure, described as "a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses" ([Ezra 7:6](/ezra/7-6 "Ezra 7:6 - Ezra, a Skilled Scribe")). While the physical Temple was complete ([Ezra 6:15-16](/ezra/6-15 "Ezra 6:15-16 - Completion and Dedication of the Temple")), the spiritual vitality and adherence to God's Law among the returnees required fervent attention. This decree from Artaxerxes is the enabling act for Ezra's journey, providing the necessary imperial authorization and resources for his subsequent reforms aimed at re-establishing the Mosaic Law as the foundation of the community's life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Artaxerxes I reigned over the vast Persian Empire from 465-424 BC. His decree in Ezra 7:13 occurred roughly 80 years after Cyrus the Great's initial edict permitting the first return ([Ezra 1:1-4](/ezra/1-1 "Ezra 1:1-4 - Cyrus's Decree")). During this post-exilic period, Jerusalem's walls remained in ruins, and the Jewish community faced internal challenges such as spiritual apathy, intermarriage with foreign peoples, and neglect of the Law. The Persian Empire was renowned for its sophisticated administration and generally pragmatic approach to governing diverse populations. While they often supported local religious cults to maintain stability and loyalty, Artaxerxes' decree stands out for its extensive provisions, including significant financial support and broad legal authority granted to Ezra ([Ezra 7:14-26](/ezra/7-14 "Ezra 7:14-26 - Artaxerxes' Letter to Ezra")). This extraordinary benevolence is consistently attributed in biblical accounts to the sovereign influence of God, who directs the hearts of kings (e.g., [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in God's Hand")) to accomplish His redemptive purposes.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to the overarching theme of **Divine Providence** woven throughout the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. It vividly illustrates God's sovereign control over world leaders, even pagan monarchs who do not acknowledge Him, to orchestrate events and fulfill His redemptive purposes for His covenant people. The king's decree is thus not merely a political concession but a direct manifestation of God's faithfulness to His promises of Israel's restoration. Another prominent theme is **Restoration and Renewal**, encompassing not only the physical return to the promised land but, more significantly, the spiritual revitalization of the covenant community, emphasizing the re-establishment of Mosaic Law and proper worship. Furthermore, the phrase "minded of their own freewill" underscores the theme of **Voluntary Obedience and Service**. This highlights God's desire for willing hearts in His service, a principle consistently echoed throughout Scripture, where God's people are called to offer themselves freely and joyfully (e.g., [Psalm 110:3](/psalm/110-3 "Psalm 110:3 - Willing People in the Day of Power")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Decree (Aramaic, _ṭᵉʻêm'_):** This Aramaic term, frequently used in Ezra, denotes an official royal edict, a binding command, or a judgment. It carries the full weight of imperial authority, signifying that Artaxerxes' permission was not merely a suggestion but a legally recognized and enforceable allowance. The use of this word underscores the legitimacy and power behind the king's pronouncement, which was essential for the safe passage and authorized activities of Ezra and the returning exiles. It speaks to the king's decisive and authoritative action.
* **Freewill (Aramaic, _nᵉdab'_):** This Aramaic word corresponds to the Hebrew root _nadav_, which conveys the idea of a spontaneous, voluntary, or willing offering, often in a religious context (e.g., freewill offerings for the Tabernacle or Temple). In this verse, it emphasizes that the return to Jerusalem was not a compulsory conscription but an opportunity for those whose hearts genuinely desired to participate in the rebuilding and spiritual renewal of the community. This highlights a crucial principle of divine service: God seeks willing participants, not coerced ones, emphasizing internal motivation over external compulsion.
* **Go up (Aramaic, _hûwk'_):** While literally meaning "to go" or "to ascend" (Jerusalem is geographically elevated), this verb carries significant spiritual and theological connotations in biblical literature. It often refers to pilgrimages or journeys to Jerusalem for worship, particularly for the annual feasts. In this context, "go up" implies not just a physical relocation but a spiritual pilgrimage, a commitment to re-engage with the spiritual center of Israel and its covenant obligations, signifying a purposeful journey towards a sacred destination.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I make a decree,"**: This opening declaration firmly establishes the absolute authority of King Artaxerxes I. It signifies a formal, binding royal edict, not a mere suggestion or recommendation. The emphatic "I" underscores the king's personal endorsement and initiative, though from a biblical perspective, this initiative is ultimately understood as divinely influenced and orchestrated. This decree provides the essential legal foundation for Ezra's mission and the subsequent return of the exiles.
* **"that all they of the people of Israel, and [of] his priests and Levites, in my realm,"**: The scope of the decree is remarkably broad, extending to all Israelites residing within the vast Persian Empire. The specific inclusion of "priests and Levites" is profoundly significant, indicating the king's understanding (or God's orchestration of his understanding) of the critical need for religious leadership and proper Temple service in Jerusalem. This inclusivity ensures a diverse and representative group, including those vital for the spiritual and ceremonial restoration of the community.
* **"which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem,"**: This clause introduces the crucial element of voluntariness. The return was not a forced migration or conscription but an invitation extended to those whose hearts were genuinely inclined to participate in this divine endeavor. It speaks to a spiritual readiness and commitment, emphasizing that God's work is best advanced by willing participants. "To go up to Jerusalem" signifies both the physical journey to the elevated holy city and the spiritual pilgrimage to the center of Israelite worship and covenant life.
* **"go with thee."**: This concluding phrase designates Ezra as the appointed leader and facilitator of this return. It grants him the necessary authority and legitimacy to gather and lead this new wave of exiles. The king's explicit endorsement of Ezra is a testament to God's favor upon His chosen servant and His meticulous plan for the spiritual renewal and re-establishment of His people in their homeland.

#### Literary Devices
Ezra 7:13 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message and underscore its significance. The most prominent is the **Edict** or **Decree**, which serves as the central literary form for this section of Ezra. This formal royal proclamation lends an air of absolute authority and historical veracity to the narrative, emphasizing the binding nature of the king's command and its far-reaching implications. There is also a powerful element of **Divine Irony** or **Paradox** at play: a pagan king, Artaxerxes, is depicted as actively facilitating the divine plan for God's chosen people, Israel. This highlights God's sovereign control over all earthly powers, even those seemingly indifferent or opposed to Him, demonstrating that His purposes cannot be thwarted. The phrase "minded of their own freewill" functions as a form of **Emphasis**, drawing the reader's attention to the crucial aspect of voluntary participation in God's work. This emphasis underscores a profound theological principle that God desires willing hearts, not forced obedience. The overall tone of the verse is one of **Providential Fulfillment**, where human actions, even those of a foreign monarch, are clearly seen as instruments in the unfolding of God's redemptive history for His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 7:13 is a powerful testament to the overarching theme of God's **Sovereignty** and **Providence**. It demonstrates unequivocally that God's plan for His people is not contingent on human power or political will alone; rather, He actively works through and even directs the hearts of earthly rulers, even pagan ones, to accomplish His divine purposes. This decree, seemingly a mere political act, is profoundly theological, revealing God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises of restoration for Israel. It underscores that the return from exile was not simply a historical event but a divinely orchestrated movement, meticulously preparing the way for the coming Messiah. The emphasis on "freewill" also connects to the theological principle that God desires a willing, joyful, and spontaneous heart in service, rather than reluctant obligation or forced compliance.

* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The Lord Directs the King's Heart")
* [Psalm 110:3](/psalm/110-3 "Psalm 110:3 - Your People Will Offer Themselves Willingly")
* [Isaiah 43:5-7](/isaiah/43-5 "Isaiah 43:5-7 - God Gathers His People from Exile")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 7:13 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers, serving as a powerful reminder of God's active and intricate involvement in the affairs of the world, as well as His desire for our willing participation in His grand narrative. Just as King Artaxerxes was an unwitting instrument in God's sovereign hands, we are called to cultivate a discerning eye, recognizing God's work even in unexpected places and through unlikely individuals or circumstances. This should foster a deep and abiding trust in His overarching plan, even when our immediate circumstances seem challenging, chaotic, or beyond our control. Furthermore, the emphasis on "freewill" in the decree challenges us to deeply examine the motivations behind our service to God. Is our obedience born out of genuine love, grateful devotion, and a willing heart, or is it a reluctant duty, a mere obligation? God invites us to participate joyfully and wholeheartedly in His ongoing mission, whether it be in our homes, workplaces, communities, or global endeavors. Our willingness to "go up" to whatever spiritual Jerusalem God calls us to—be it a mission field, a local church ministry, or simply living out our faith authentically and consistently in our daily lives—is a powerful testament to our devotion and a vital expression of our partnership with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to trust God's sovereignty more fully, especially when circumstances or authorities seem beyond your control or even contrary to your desires?**
* **How does the concept of "freewill" service challenge or affirm your current participation in God's work? Are there areas where your service might be more out of obligation than a willing heart?**
* **What "Jerusalem"—what specific calling or area of service—is God inviting you to "go up" to in your life today, and what tangible steps can you take to respond with a willing heart and joyful obedience?**

### FAQ
**Why would a pagan king like Artaxerxes issue such a favorable decree to the Jews?**

Answer: While the biblical narrative consistently attributes such actions to God's sovereign influence over rulers (as powerfully illustrated in [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "Proverbs 21:1 - The King's Heart in God's Hand") and seen in the experiences of Daniel in Babylon), from a historical and political perspective, Persian kings often adopted pragmatic policies. They found it beneficial to support the religious practices of various ethnic groups within their vast empire, as this fostered stability, loyalty, and prevented unrest. By allowing the Jews to return and re-establish their religious life in Jerusalem, Artaxerxes likely aimed to create a loyal, stable outpost in a strategically important region, potentially serving as a buffer against Egypt. Furthermore, the decree explicitly states that Ezra was to ensure the Law of God was known and obeyed ([Ezra 7:25-26](/ezra/7-25 "Ezra 7:25-26 - Ezra's Authority to Administer Justice")), which would contribute to social order and justice, benefiting the Persian administration. Ultimately, the Bible presents this as God working through human means, both known and unknown to the humans themselves, to fulfill His divine plan for His people.

**What was the significance of mentioning "priests and Levites" specifically?**

Answer: The explicit mention of "priests and Levites" alongside "the people of Israel" highlights the crucial and urgent importance of re-establishing proper religious order and worship in Jerusalem. After the initial return and the rebuilding of the Temple, its services required dedicated, trained personnel. Priests were divinely appointed to offer sacrifices, mediate between God and the people, and administer the Law. Levites assisted in various Temple duties, including music, guarding, and teaching the Law. Their return was absolutely essential for the spiritual health and proper functioning of the community, ensuring adherence to Mosaic Law and the restoration of covenant worship as prescribed by God. This specific detail underscores that the restoration envisioned by God was not merely physical or political, but fundamentally spiritual, focused on the re-establishment of the divinely ordained religious system. Ezra himself was both a priest and a skilled scribe ([Ezra 7:1-6](/ezra/7-1 "Ezra 7:1-6 - Ezra's Background")), making the inclusion of these specific groups particularly relevant and vital to the success of his mission.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 7:13, with its emphasis on a voluntary return to Jerusalem and the re-establishment of God's law and proper worship, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament. The physical return of the exiles to Jerusalem foreshadows the spiritual "return" or reconciliation that Christ accomplishes for all humanity. Just as Artaxerxes' decree enabled a physical journey back to the promised land, Christ's atoning work on the cross provides the ultimate "decree" for humanity's return to God, making possible a spiritual exodus from the bondage of sin and spiritual exile ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness")). The "freewill" aspect of the returnees resonates deeply with Christ's own voluntary sacrifice; He willingly laid down His life for His sheep ([John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus Lays Down His Life Willingly")) and calls His followers to a willing obedience born out of love, not compulsion ([John 14:15](/john/14-15 "John 14:15 - If You Love Me, Keep My Commandments")). Furthermore, the re-establishment of the priesthood and Temple worship in Ezra points directly to Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest, who forever intercedes for us in the heavenly sanctuary ([Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")), and as the true Temple, in whom God dwells in His fullness and through whom all acceptable worship is now offered ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Speaks of the Temple of His Body")). Believers, through faith in Christ, become living stones in a spiritual temple ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House")), participating in a new covenant "return" to God's presence, empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives of willing service and worship in the new Jerusalem, which is the church and ultimately the heavenly city ([Revelation 21:2](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Coming Down")). This ultimate fulfillment transcends the physical, establishing a spiritual kingdom where God's people willingly serve Him forever.

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

Ezra 6:1

¶ Then Darius the king made a decree, and search was made in the house of the rolls, where the treasures were laid up in Babylon.

Esther 3:15

The posts went out, being hastened by the king's commandment, and the decree was given in Shushan the palace. And the king and Haman sat down to drink; but the city Shushan was perplexed.

Psalms 148:6

He hath also stablished them for ever and ever: he hath made a decree which shall not pass.

Esther 9:14

And the king commanded it so to be done: and the decree was given at Shushan; and they hanged Haman's ten sons.

Revelation 22:17

And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

Philippians 2:13

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

Ezra 5:13

But in the first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon [the same] king Cyrus made a decree to build this house of God.