Question 1

What does Ezra 7:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

Ezra 7:20 states that if anything else is needed for the temple of God, Ezra is authorized to provide it from the king’s treasury. This verse shows that the Persian king gave Ezra permission to use royal funds for any additional needs that might arise for the upkeep or service of the temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 7:20 is part of a letter from King Artaxerxes of Persia to Ezra, a Jewish scribe and priest. The king is giving Ezra broad authority to ensure the temple in Jerusalem has everything it needs, even beyond what was already listed or supplied. This reflects the king’s support for the Jewish people’s worship and the importance placed on the temple’s proper functioning.

Question 2

The Aramaic behind Ezra 7:20

Accepted Answer

"more" (שְׁאָר, she'ar): This word means "the rest" or "anything else," highlighting that the king’s permission covers not just specific items but any further needs that might come up. "needful" (חֲשַׁח, chashakh): This word is often understood as "necessary" or "required," emphasizing that Ezra is to use his judgment for what is truly needed for the temple. "occasion" (פְּשַׁר, peshar): This word means "opportunity" or "reason," suggesting Ezra is trusted to decide when something is needed. "bestow" (יְהַב, yahav): Used twice, this verb means "to give" or "to provide," showing that the king is instructing Ezra to supply these needs directly from royal resources.

Question 3

Why Ezra 7:20 matters

Accepted Answer

Ezra 7:20 clarifies that the king’s support was not limited to a fixed list but included any future needs, showing remarkable trust and generosity. The verse highlights the Persian king’s respect for the Jewish faith and his willingness to invest in the temple’s well-being, which was not common for foreign rulers. This instruction sets the stage for Ezra’s leadership, showing that he was empowered to act for the good of the temple and the community, with the king’s full backing.

Ezra 7:20 (KJV)