What is the meaning of Ezra 4:22? See that you do not neglect this matter. “See that you do not neglect this matter.” Ezra’s narrator is reproducing the Persian king Artaxerxes’ decisive words to his officials (Ezra 4:21-22). The command is short, sharp, and urgent. A few observations: • The king expects immediate obedience. Neglect would be open rebellion (compare Proverbs 13:17; 1 Peter 2:13-14). • True diligence is measured by action, not intention (Proverbs 10:4-5; James 1:22-25). • Because the verse is God-breathed history (2 Timothy 3:16-17), it also reminds believers that half-heartedness toward any clear directive—whether from lawful authorities or from God Himself—invites trouble (Numbers 32:23; Revelation 3:15-16). • From Israel’s viewpoint, this hostile decree became a divinely allowed pause. The remnant had to decide whether they would lapse into discouragement or wait on the Lord’s timing (Psalm 27:14; Isaiah 40:31). Why allow this threat to increase and the royal interests to suffer? Artaxerxes continues, “Why allow this threat to increase and the royal interests to suffer?” He sees Jerusalem’s rebuilding as a political hazard. His logic is straightforward: • History of revolt: earlier in the chapter the rebels cite Jerusalem’s past insurrections (Ezra 4:15, 19). Artaxerxes believes civil order is at stake, echoing Pharaoh’s fears in Exodus 1:9-10 and Haman’s words in Esther 3:8-9. • Protection of revenue: “royal interests” includes taxes, tribute, and overall stability (Ezra 4:13). Compare Daniel 6:2, where satraps are appointed “so that the king would not suffer loss.” • Prudence of rulers: God ordains authority to restrain evil (Romans 13:3-4). Even a pagan king instinctively acts to curb what he deems dangerous. For the contemporary believer: – We are often shocked when opposition arises, yet Scripture repeatedly shows God’s people attracting governmental scrutiny (Acts 4:18-19; 1 Thessalonians 2:2). – God overrules every hostile edict for His larger purpose (Genesis 50:20; Ezra 6:14). – While earthly kings protect their own interests, the King of kings advances an unshakable kingdom (Hebrews 12:28). summary Ezra 4:22 captures a royal command that halts Jerusalem’s construction: “Do not neglect this matter,” demanding swift enforcement; “Why allow this threat to increase,” guarding the empire’s welfare. The verse spotlights human authority acting from political self-interest, yet under God’s sovereign hand. For believers it teaches diligence in duty, realism about opposition, and confidence that God’s plan marches on even through decrees that seem to hinder it. |
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