Now this is the copy of the letter that the king Artaxerxes gave unto Ezra the priest, the scribe, even a scribe of the words of the commandments of the LORD, and of his statutes to Israel.

EZRA 7:11KJV
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Ezra 7:11 (KJV)

What does Ezra 7:11 mean?

Ezra 7:11 introduces the official letter that King Artaxerxes gave to Ezra, describing Ezra as both a priest and a scribe who was skilled in the words of God's commandments and statutes for Israel. This verse sets the stage for the contents of the king's letter, highlighting Ezra’s authority and expertise in the law of the LORD.

Ezra 7:11 marks a transition in the book, where the narrative shifts to the formal decree from the Persian king. The verse identifies Ezra as a trusted religious leader and legal expert, emphasizing his role in teaching and upholding the commandments (laws) and statutes (regulations) given by God to Israel. The letter that follows will outline the king’s instructions and support for Ezra’s mission.

The Hebrew behind Ezra 7:11

  • "copy" (פַּרְשֶׁגֶן, parshegen): This word refers to an official copy or transcript, emphasizing that what follows is a faithful reproduction of the king’s decree, not just a summary.
  • "scribe" (סוֹפֵר, sofer): Used twice here, this word means someone skilled in writing and interpreting the law. Calling Ezra a "scribe of the words of the commandments" highlights his deep knowledge and authority in handling sacred texts.
  • "commandments" (מִצְוֹת, mitzvot): This word refers to specific commands or instructions from God, underlining that Ezra’s expertise is in the divine law, not just general wisdom.
  • "statutes" (חֻקִּים, chukim): These are rules or decrees, often understood as regulations that may not have an obvious reason but are to be followed as part of God’s covenant with Israel. This shows Ezra’s role in teaching both the clear and the more mysterious parts of God’s law.

Why Ezra 7:11 matters

  • Ezra 7:11 clarifies that what follows is not Ezra’s own words but an official royal document, lending authority and legitimacy to Ezra’s actions.
  • The verse highlights Ezra’s dual role as both a priest and a scribe, showing he is qualified both spiritually and legally to lead the people in matters of faith and law.
  • By mentioning both "commandments" and "statutes," the verse points to the comprehensive nature of Ezra’s mission: he is responsible for teaching all aspects of God’s law, not just a select part.

Where else these words appear

“letter” Hebrew H5406 · used in 2 verses

  • Ezra 4:7 And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue.

“copy” Hebrew H6572 · used in 4 verses

  • Esther 3:14 The copy of the writing for a commandment to be given in every province was published unto all people, that they should be ready against that day.
  • Esther 4:8 Also he gave him the copy of the writing of the decree that was given at Shushan to destroy them, to shew it unto Esther, and to declare it unto her, and to charge her that she should go in unto the king, to make supplication unto him, and to make request before him for her people.
  • Esther 8:13 The copy of the writing for a commandment to be given in every province was published unto all people, and that the Jews should be ready against that day to avenge themselves on their enemies.

“Artaxerxes” Hebrew H783 · used in 14 verses

  • Ezra 4:7 And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue.
  • Ezra 6:14 And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia.
  • Ezra 7:21 And I, even I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which are beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it be done speedily,

“Ezra” Hebrew H5830 · used in 22 verses

  • Ezra 7:1 Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,
  • Ezra 10:10 And Ezra the priest stood up, and said unto them, Ye have transgressed, and have taken strange wives, to increase the trespass of Israel.
  • Nehemiah 8:9 And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.