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.
Artaxerxes, the king of kings, writes to Ezra the priest, who is a teacher of the law of the God of heaven: I wish you perfect peace, and so forth.
This verse shows King Artaxerxes writing an official letter to Ezra, addressing him with respect and acknowledging his role as a priest and teacher of God's law.
📚 Historical Context
During the Persian Empire's rule over the conquered Babylonian territories, King Artaxerxes I issued this decree as part of his support for the Jewish exiles returning to Jerusalem after decades of captivity. Ezra, a devout priest and expert scribe in the Law of Moses, was commissioned to lead religious reforms and teach God's commandments among the people. This letter reflects the broader historical narrative of God's providence in using foreign rulers to restore His people's worship and identity.
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