Ezra 7:12
Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven, perfect peace, and at such a time.
Original Language Analysis
אַ֨רְתַּחְשַׁ֔סְתְּא
Artaxerxes
H783
אַ֨רְתַּחְשַׁ֔סְתְּא
Artaxerxes
Strong's:
H783
Word #:
1 of 12
artachshasta (or artaxerxes), a title (rather than name) of several persian kings
כָֽ֠הֲנָא
the priest
H3549
כָֽ֠הֲנָא
the priest
Strong's:
H3549
Word #:
5 of 12
one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
דִּֽי
H1768
דִּֽי
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
8 of 12
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
שְׁמַיָּ֛א
of heaven
H8065
שְׁמַיָּ֛א
of heaven
Strong's:
H8065
Word #:
10 of 12
the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r
Cross References
Ezekiel 26:7For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will bring upon Tyrus Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, a king of kings, from the north, with horses, and with chariots, and with horsemen, and companies, and much people.Daniel 2:37Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory.Ezra 4:17Then sent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria, and unto the rest beyond the river, Peace, and at such a time.
Historical Context
The title 'king of kings' appeared in Persian royal inscriptions (similar to 'great king' or 'king of lands'). It asserted sovereignty over subordinate rulers throughout the empire. Addressing Ezra with this title shows imperial attention to what might seem minor provincial religious matter. The phrase 'God of heaven' was standard Persian theological terminology, though here applied specifically to Yahweh. The shift to Aramaic (vv. 12-26) indicates official document quotation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does a pagan emperor's respectful address to God's servant demonstrate that God controls rulers' attitudes toward His people?
- What does Artaxerxes' formal recognition of Ezra's religious authority teach about God securing space for faithful ministry?
Analysis & Commentary
The letter begins 'Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven, perfect peace, and at such a time.' The title 'king of kings' asserts Persian imperial supremacy. Addressing Ezra as 'scribe of the law of the God of heaven' shows royal recognition of his religious authority. The greeting 'perfect peace' (gemar in Aramaic) expresses complete well-being. This pagan king's respectful address to God's servant demonstrates providential favor.