Ezra 7:11

Now this is the copy of the letter that the king Artaxerxes gaue vnto Ezra the Priest, the Scribe, euen a Scribe of the words of the commandements of the Lord, and of his Statutes to Israel. Ezra 7:11 (KJV)

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. Ezra 7:11 (KJV)

Background and Context: The book of Ezra is a historical book in the Old Testament that describes the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem and the subsequent efforts to rebuild the temple. Ezra was a prominent figure in this period and played a crucial role in the restoration of worship and the study of God’s law.

The Letter’s Author: The letter mentioned in Ezra 7:11 was written by King Artaxerxes, the ruler of Persia at that time. It is important to note that this particular king was Artaxerxes I, as there were several kings with the same name. King Artaxerxes I reigned from 465‑424 BC. This letter granted Ezra authority and provisions to return to Jerusalem and lead the people.

Ezra’s Identity and Role: Ezra is described as a priest and a scribe. As a priest, he had a significant role in matters of worship and spiritual leadership among the Jewish community. As a scribe, Ezra was an expert in the law of Moses, responsible for preserving and teaching God’s commandments to the people. This combination of roles made him uniquely qualified to lead the people in their return to the land and reestablish the practice of the law.

God’s Commandments and Statutes: The letter emphasizes that Ezra was a scribe of the words of the commandments of the Lord and of His statutes to Israel. This highlights the importance of God’s law in the life of His people. The commandments and statutes referred to the laws given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, including the Ten Commandments and various regulations and instructions for worship, ethics, and community life. The people of Israel were expected to follow these commandments and statutes as a way of demonstrating their obedience to God.

(a) The Preservation of God’s Word: Ezra’s role as a scribe highlights the importance of preserving and studying God’s Word. The Bible is not merely a historical document but a living and relevant guide for our lives today. We, too, should prioritise the study and understanding of Scripture, seeking to apply its principles to our lives.

(b) God’s Provision: The fact that King Artaxerxes granted Ezra authority and provisions to return to Jerusalem is a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to work through human authorities to accomplish His purposes. We can trust that God is in control, even in challenging circumstances, and He can provide for our needs.

(c) Obedience to God’s Commandments: The commandments and statutes given to Israel were intended to guide their lives and establish a righteous society. Today, as believers in Christ, we are called to live in obedience to God’s commandments. Jesus summarised the commandments as loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbour as ourselves (Matthew 22:37‑39). As we seek to follow these principles, we honour God and demonstrate His love to others.

In conclusion, Ezra 7:11 highlights the important role of Ezra as a priest and scribe, entrusted with God’s commandments and statutes. The passage reminds us of the significance of preserving and studying God’s Word, God’s provision in our lives, and the call to obedience to His commandments.