Introduction:
Esdris, often referred to as Ezra in the Hebrew Bible, is a significant figure in Jewish history and biblical literature. He is traditionally credited as the author of the Book of Ezra and is a central character in the narrative of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. Esdris is also associated with the establishment of the Jewish religious community and the reformation of Jewish practices according to the Law of Moses.

Historical Context:
Esdris lived during the 5th century BC, a period marked by the Persian Empire's dominance over the ancient Near East. After the decree of Cyrus the Great in 538 BC, which allowed the Jews to return to their homeland, several waves of exiles returned to Jerusalem. Esdris played a pivotal role in the second wave of returnees, arriving in Jerusalem around 458 BC during the reign of Artaxerxes I.

Biblical Account:
The Book of Ezra in the Old Testament provides a detailed account of Esdris's mission. He is described as a "scribe skilled in the Law of Moses" (Ezra 7:6) and is granted authority by the Persian king to lead a group of exiles back to Jerusalem. Esdris's primary task was to restore the religious and social order of the Jewish community by teaching and enforcing the Law.

Reformation and Covenant Renewal:
Upon his arrival in Jerusalem, Esdris was confronted with the issue of intermarriage between the Jewish people and the surrounding nations, which was contrary to the Mosaic Law. He led a public confession and repentance, urging the people to separate from their foreign wives to maintain the purity of the Jewish faith (Ezra 10:10-11). This act of reformation was crucial in preserving the distinct identity of the Jewish people.

Esdris's Legacy:
Esdris is often credited with laying the foundation for the Second Temple Judaism and is revered for his dedication to the Law. His efforts in compiling and editing the Hebrew Scriptures are seen as instrumental in shaping the Jewish canon. Jewish tradition holds that Esdris established the Great Assembly, a body of scholars and leaders who played a significant role in the development of Jewish religious life.

Esdris in Apocryphal Literature:
In addition to the canonical Book of Ezra, Esdris is also associated with the apocryphal books of 1 Esdras and 2 Esdras (also known as 4 Ezra). These texts, while not included in the Hebrew Bible, provide additional insights into his character and the challenges faced by the Jewish community during his time.

Theological Significance:
Esdris's commitment to the Law and his leadership in the spiritual renewal of the Jewish people highlight the importance of obedience to God's commandments. His life and work underscore the themes of repentance, covenant faithfulness, and the centrality of Scripture in guiding the community of faith.

Conclusion:
Esdris remains a revered figure in both Jewish and Christian traditions. His contributions to the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish faith continue to be celebrated as a testament to the enduring power of God's word and the transformative impact of faithful leadership.ESDRIS

ez'-dris, es'-dris (Esdris):

A leader mentioned in APC 2Macc 12:36 in best texts and adopted in the Revised Version (British and American) for Gorgias of the King James Version. Grotius conjectured "men of Ephron" from 12:27.

Esdris
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ESDRIS. ez'-dris, es'-dris (Esdris): A leader
mentioned in APC 2Macc 12:36 in best texts and adopted ...
/e/esdris.htm - 6k

Esebon

/e/esebon.htm - 6k

Esdras

/e/esdras.htm - 29k

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