Artaxerxes' letter to Ezra is a significant document found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Ezra, chapter 7. This letter, issued by King Artaxerxes I of Persia, provides Ezra, a scribe and priest, with the authority and resources to lead a group of Jewish exiles from Babylon back to Jerusalem. The letter is a testament to God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to restore His people to their homeland.

Historical Context

The letter is dated to the seventh year of King Artaxerxes' reign, around 458 BC. This period follows the Babylonian exile, during which the Jewish people were taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar II. The Persian Empire, under Cyrus the Great, had previously allowed the first group of exiles to return and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. Artaxerxes' letter represents a continuation of this policy, further facilitating the restoration of Jewish religious and social life.

Content of the Letter

The letter, as recorded in Ezra 7:11-26, is a royal decree that grants Ezra extensive powers and resources. Artaxerxes acknowledges Ezra's wisdom and dedication to the Law of God, entrusting him with the task of ensuring that the Jewish laws are observed in the land of Judah. The letter includes several key provisions:

1. Authorization and Support: Artaxerxes authorizes Ezra to lead a group of Israelites, priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, and temple servants to Jerusalem. The king provides silver and gold from the royal treasury and allows Ezra to collect freewill offerings from the people and priests in Babylon (Ezra 7:15-16).

2. Temple Worship: The letter emphasizes the importance of proper worship in the temple. Artaxerxes instructs Ezra to use the resources provided to purchase offerings for the temple and to ensure that the worship of the God of Israel is conducted according to the Law (Ezra 7:17).

3. Judicial Authority: Artaxerxes grants Ezra the authority to appoint magistrates and judges to administer justice according to the laws of God and the king. Ezra is empowered to teach these laws to those who do not know them and to enforce them with appropriate penalties (Ezra 7:25-26).

4. Exemption from Taxes: The letter exempts priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, temple servants, and other workers in the house of God from paying taxes, tribute, or duty, recognizing their service to the temple (Ezra 7:24).

Theological Significance

Artaxerxes' letter to Ezra is a powerful example of God's sovereignty and His ability to use even foreign rulers to accomplish His purposes. The letter highlights the importance of adherence to God's Law and the centrality of worship in the life of His people. It also underscores the role of godly leadership in guiding and teaching the community in righteousness.

The letter serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, as He continues to restore and preserve His people. Through Artaxerxes' decree, God provides the means for the spiritual and communal renewal of the Jewish people, setting the stage for the eventual coming of the Messiah.