Also we certify you, that touching any of the priests and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.
We also want you to know that it is not legal to make any of the priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, temple servants, or other workers of God's house pay taxes, tribute, or customs fees.
This verse declares that all the people who serve in God's temple are exempt from paying taxes and fees.
📚 Historical Context
This is part of a decree from Persian King Artaxerxes I around 458 BC, giving Ezra authority to lead Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem and rebuild their religious life. The Persian Empire often granted tax exemptions to religious personnel as a way to show respect for local customs and maintain peace. This exemption would help ensure the temple could function properly with dedicated servants who weren't burdened by financial obligations to the state.
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