What is the meaning of Ezra 4:6? At the beginning of the reign of Xerxes • Scripture sets the scene “at the beginning” (Ezra 4:6), placing the event shortly after Xerxes (also called Ahasuerus) ascended the Persian throne around 486 BC. • Just as Cyrus and Darius had earlier issued decrees favorable to Judah (Ezra 1:2–4; 6:1–12), the moment a new monarch arrives, opposition re-ignites—illustrating how quickly circumstances can shift in a fallen world (cf. Daniel 6:1–5 when a new ruler reorganizes his kingdom). • This timing underscores God’s sovereignty: He allows His people to face fresh trials precisely when they might have expected smooth progress, refining their faith (James 1:2–4). an accusation was lodged • The enemies of Judah file a formal complaint, echoing earlier tactics used under Cyrus and Darius (Ezra 4:1–5) and anticipating later ones under Artaxerxes (Ezra 4:7–23). • “Accusation” reminds us that opposition often comes through slander and legal maneuvering (Acts 24:1–9 against Paul; Revelation 12:10, the accuser of our brothers). • Such charges aim to halt God’s work, but He turns them to His purposes: the delay prepared the stage for future deliverance under Nehemiah (Nehemiah 2:1–8). • Believers today should not be surprised when hostile voices misrepresent their intentions (1 Peter 4:12–16). against the people of Judah and Jerusalem • The target is specifically “the people of Judah and Jerusalem,” God’s covenant community and the chosen city (Psalm 132:13–14; Zechariah 12:2–3). • Opposition to Jerusalem is ultimately opposition to God’s redemptive plan, because from this community would come Messiah (Micah 5:2). • Throughout Ezra–Nehemiah the adversaries try to erode Jewish identity and halt temple and wall restoration (Nehemiah 4:1–3, 7–8). • Yet God preserves His people, fulfilling His promise that the line of David remains secure (2 Samuel 7:12–16) and that the rebuilt temple will stand as a testimony to the nations (Haggai 2:7–9). summary Ezra 4:6 records a real historical moment: right after Xerxes takes the throne, Judah’s opponents file a damaging accusation to impede the rebuilding. The verse highlights three truths: timing—trials arise precisely when God’s people expect progress; tactic—slander and legal pressure are recurring tools of the enemy; target—God’s covenant people and His redemptive purposes in Jerusalem. Even so, the broader narrative shows the Lord overruling every charge and advancing His plan, reassuring believers that no earthly accusation can thwart the will of the King of kings. |
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