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.
Here is a copy of the letter that King Artaxerxes gave to Ezra the priest, who was a scribe—someone who studied and copied the Lord's commandments and laws given to Israel.
This verse introduces an official letter from the Persian king that gave Ezra authority and resources to lead the Jewish people back to Jerusalem and restore their worship.
📚 Historical Context
This takes place around 458 BC during the Persian Empire's rule over the former Babylonian territories. Ezra was a Jewish priest and scribe living in Babylon who had gained favor with King Artaxerxes I. The Persian policy generally allowed conquered peoples to return to their homelands and practice their religions, seeing this as a way to maintain peace and loyalty throughout their vast empire.
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