Background and Context:
Artaxerxes I, the king of Persia, reigned from 465 to 424 BC. His reign is noted in the biblical narrative for his interactions with the Jewish people, particularly in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The letter from Artaxerxes to Ezra is a significant document that highlights the Persian king's support for the Jewish community and their religious practices.

Biblical Reference:
The letter from Artaxerxes to Ezra is found in the Book of Ezra, specifically in Ezra 7:11-26. This passage is a key part of the narrative that describes Ezra's mission to Jerusalem, which was sanctioned and supported by the Persian king.

Content of the Letter:
The letter is a royal decree that grants Ezra, a scribe and priest, the authority to lead a group of Israelites back to Jerusalem. It provides Ezra with the power to enforce the Law of God and the law of the king. The letter is notable for its detailed provisions, which include:

1. Authorization and Support:
Artaxerxes grants Ezra the authority to take with him any Israelites who wish to return to Jerusalem. The king's decree states, "You are sent by the king and his seven counselors to inquire about Judah and Jerusalem according to the Law of your God, which is in your hand" (Ezra 7:14).

2. Financial Provisions:
The letter includes instructions for the provision of silver and gold from the royal treasury and from freewill offerings by the people and priests. These resources are intended for the purchase of offerings and other needs for the temple in Jerusalem. Artaxerxes commands, "Whatever seems good to you and your brothers to do with the rest of the silver and gold, do according to the will of your God" (Ezra 7:18).

3. Temple Worship:
The decree emphasizes the importance of proper worship and sacrifices at the temple. Artaxerxes instructs that all necessary items for the temple service be provided, stating, "Whatever is commanded by the God of heaven must be done diligently for the house of the God of heaven" (Ezra 7:23).

4. Judicial Authority:
Ezra is given the authority to appoint magistrates and judges to administer justice according to the laws of God and the king. The letter states, "You, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God, which is in your hand, appoint magistrates and judges to judge all the people in the province Beyond the River—all who know the laws of your God" (Ezra 7:25).

5. Exemption from Taxes:
The decree exempts priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, temple servants, and other workers in the house of God from paying taxes, tribute, or duty.

Significance:
Artaxerxes' letter to Ezra is a remarkable example of the Persian policy of supporting local customs and religions within their empire. It reflects the king's respect for the Jewish faith and his desire to maintain stability in the region by empowering local leaders like Ezra. The letter also underscores the providential role of God in the affairs of His people, as the Persian king's decree aligns with the divine plan for the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of proper worship.