### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʻEzrâʼ**, represented by `{{H5831}}`, is the proper name for **Ezra, an Israelite**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This name identifies a central figure tasked with significant religious and civil authority as recorded in the book of Ezra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5831}}` is used to identify the recipient of a royal decree from King Artaxerxes. The king’s letter is addressed directly to **Ezra** the priest and scribe [[Ezra 7:12]]. This decree grants him the authority to lead a group back to Jerusalem and establishes his role in the community. As part of this commission, Artaxerxes instructs **Ezra** to appoint magistrates and judges who will enforce the laws of God among the people living beyond the river [[Ezra 7:25]]. The king’s full support for this mission is made clear in his command to the treasurers to provide whatever **Ezra** requires [[Ezra 7:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the scope of Ezra's identity and mission:
* `{{H3549}}` **kâhên** (priest): This title, defined as {one officiating, a priest}, is consistently applied to Ezra, highlighting his religious standing and function within the community ([[Ezra 7:12]], [[Ezra 7:21]]).
* `{{H5613}}` **çâphêr** (scribe): Ezra is also identified as a **scribe** of the law of God, signifying his role as an expert in and teacher of sacred texts [[Ezra 7:12]].
* `{{H1882}}` **dâth** (law): This word for {a royal edict or statute} is central to Ezra's purpose. His entire commission revolves around knowing, teaching, and administering the **law** of his God [[Ezra 7:25]].
* `{{H1782}}` **dayân** (judge): Ezra is explicitly commanded to set up leaders, including a **judge** or advocate, to ensure the law of God is upheld [[Ezra 7:25]].
### Theological Significance
The context of `{{H5831}}` highlights several key themes:
* **Intersection of Divine and Secular Law:** Ezra is empowered by a Gentile king, Artaxerxes, to implement the "law of thy God" [[Ezra 7:25]]. The king's decree gives civil weight to religious statutes, ordering that judgment be executed on anyone who will not obey God's law [[Ezra 7:26]].
* **Authority Through Knowledge:** Ezra’s authority stems from the "wisdom of thy God" [[Ezra 7:25]]. His role as a scribe `{{H5613}}` who knows the law is the foundation upon which his administrative and judicial power is built.
* **Restoration Through Education:** A core part of Ezra's mission is to **teach** `{{H3046}}` the laws of God to those who do not know them [[Ezra 7:25]]. This establishes education in God's law as a primary means of restoring the community.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5831}}` is more than a name; it represents a specific, divinely-appointed mission. The verses in which it appears define Ezra as a priest and scribe tasked with restoring civic and religious order among the Israelites. His work, sanctioned by a foreign king, underscores the authority of God's law and the importance of teaching it as the foundation for a righteous community.
TRV