Ezra 7:25
And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not.
Original Language Analysis
דִּֽי
H1768
דִּֽי
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
5 of 25
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
דִּי
H1768
דִּי
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
10 of 25
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
לֶהֱוֺ֤ן
which may judge
H1934
לֶהֱוֺ֤ן
which may judge
Strong's:
H1934
Word #:
11 of 25
to exist; used in a great variety of applications (especially in connection with other words)
לְכָל
all
H3606
לְכָל
all
Strong's:
H3606
Word #:
13 of 25
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
עַמָּה֙
the people
H5972
עַמָּה֙
the people
Strong's:
H5972
Word #:
14 of 25
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
דִּ֚י
H1768
דִּ֚י
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
15 of 25
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
בַּֽעֲבַ֣ר
that are beyond
H5675
בַּֽעֲבַ֣ר
that are beyond
Strong's:
H5675
Word #:
16 of 25
properly, a region across; but used only adverbially (with or without a preposition) on the opposite side (especially of the jordan; ususally meaning
לְכָל
all
H3606
לְכָל
all
Strong's:
H3606
Word #:
18 of 25
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
וְדִ֧י
H1768
וְדִ֧י
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
22 of 25
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
Cross References
Deuteronomy 16:18Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment.Ezra 7:10For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.James 1:5If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.Psalms 19:7The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.Malachi 2:7For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts.
Historical Context
Persian policy allowed subject peoples substantial autonomy in internal affairs, including legal systems based on traditional laws. Ezra's authority extended throughout 'beyond the river' province, not just Jerusalem. This gave biblical law official status for Jewish communities throughout the region. The appointed judges would apply Torah to civil disputes, criminal cases, and community governance. This established theocratic ideal within Persian imperial structure.
Questions for Reflection
- How does authorization to appoint judges applying Torah demonstrate God securing space for comprehensive biblical governance?
- What does judicial authority teach about Scripture addressing all life areas, not just private devotion or worship?
Analysis & Commentary
The judicial authority—'And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river'—grants legal authority to establish courts. The phrase 'wisdom of thy God' refers to Torah as divine law code. Ezra could appoint judges applying biblical law to covenant community. This civil authority enabled comprehensive community governance according to Scripture, not just religious ritual.