Topical Encyclopedia Artaxerxes I, a prominent king of Persia, reigned from 465 to 424 BC. He is notably recognized in the biblical narrative for his interactions with the Jewish people during the post-exilic period. His reign is marked by significant decrees that impacted the Jewish community, particularly in their efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore their religious practices.Historical Context Artaxerxes I ascended to the throne following the assassination of his father, Xerxes I. His rule is characterized by a relatively stable administration and a continuation of the policies of his predecessors, which included a degree of tolerance towards the diverse cultures and religions within the vast Persian Empire. This policy of tolerance extended to the Jewish exiles, who had been living in Babylon since the Babylonian captivity. Biblical Account The most notable decree of Artaxerxes concerning the Jews is recorded in the Book of Ezra. In Ezra 7:11-26, Artaxerxes issues a decree that grants Ezra, a scribe and priest, the authority to lead a group of exiles back to Jerusalem. The decree is comprehensive, providing for the religious and civil needs of the Jewish community. Ezra 7:12-13 states: "Artaxerxes, king of kings, To Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven: Greetings. I hereby decree that any of the Israelites in my kingdom, including priests and Levites, who wish to go to Jerusalem with you, may go." The decree not only permits the return of the exiles but also provides for the restoration of the temple services. Artaxerxes authorizes Ezra to take silver and gold from the king and his counselors to purchase offerings for the temple. Furthermore, the decree exempts the priests, Levites, and temple workers from taxes, tolls, and tribute, thereby facilitating the re-establishment of religious practices without financial burden. Significance of the Decree Artaxerxes' decree is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the Persian policy of supporting local religious practices, which helped maintain stability within the empire. Secondly, it highlights the providential role of God in the affairs of His people, as the decree aligns with the prophetic promises of restoration for Israel. The decree also empowered Ezra to appoint magistrates and judges to administer justice according to the Law of God, as seen in Ezra 7:25 : "And you, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God, which you possess, 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." Impact on Jewish Restoration Artaxerxes' decree played a crucial role in the spiritual and social restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. It provided the necessary resources and authority for Ezra to lead reforms, which included the teaching of the Law and the re-establishment of proper worship. This period of restoration laid the groundwork for the later reforms under Nehemiah, who also received support from Artaxerxes to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. In summary, Artaxerxes I's decree in favor of the Jews is a testament to the interplay between divine providence and human governance, facilitating the fulfillment of God's promises to His people during a pivotal moment in their history. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 7:1Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah, Nave's Topical Index Nehemiah 2:1 Nehemiah 5:14 Resources Who were the Nethinim? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about fate / destiny? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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