Artaxerxes's 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 back to Jerusalem and to implement religious reforms. The letter is a testament to God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to restore His people.

Historical Context

The letter is dated to the seventh year of King Artaxerxes's reign, around 458 BC. This period follows the Babylonian exile, during which the Jewish people were taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar II. After the fall of Babylon to the Persians, King Cyrus the Great issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. Artaxerxes's letter to Ezra is part of this broader narrative of restoration and return.

Content of the Letter

The letter is a royal decree that grants Ezra extensive powers and resources. It begins with a formal introduction, identifying Artaxerxes as the king of kings and addressing Ezra as a priest and scribe skilled in the Law of the God of heaven. The letter is notable for its respectful tone and recognition of the Jewish faith.

Artaxerxes authorizes Ezra to lead any willing Israelites back to Jerusalem: "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). This underscores the king's respect for the Jewish law and his desire for its implementation in the land of Judah.

The letter also provides for the financial and material needs of the journey and the temple service. Artaxerxes commands treasurers in the Trans-Euphrates region to supply Ezra with silver, wheat, wine, oil, and salt, as needed, for the temple offerings: "Whatever is required by the God of heaven, let it be done with diligence for the house of the God of heaven" (Ezra 7:23).

Furthermore, the letter grants Ezra the authority to appoint magistrates and judges to administer justice according to the laws of God, emphasizing the importance of adherence to divine law: "And 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. And you are to teach these laws to anyone who does not know them" (Ezra 7:25).

Theological Significance

Artaxerxes's 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 theme of divine providence, as God moves the heart of a pagan king to support the restoration of His people and the reestablishment of His law in Jerusalem.

The letter also underscores the importance of the Law of God as the foundation for the community's life and governance. Ezra's mission is not only to lead the people physically back to their homeland but also to restore their spiritual and moral integrity through adherence to God's commandments.

Impact on Jewish History

The decree facilitated the return of a significant group of exiles and the strengthening of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. Ezra's leadership and the reforms he implemented laid the groundwork for the religious and social renewal of the Jewish people. The letter's provisions for temple worship and governance helped reestablish Jerusalem as the center of Jewish religious life.

In summary, Artaxerxes's letter to Ezra is a pivotal document in the biblical narrative of restoration, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenant people and His ability to work through history to fulfill His divine plan.