Also we certify you, that touching any of the priests and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.

EZRA 7:24KJV
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Ezra 7:24 (KJV)

What does Ezra 7:24 mean?

Ezra 7:24 states that no taxes, tolls, or customs are to be imposed on anyone serving in the temple—this includes priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, temple servants (Nethinims), or any other workers connected to the house of God. The verse is an official declaration protecting these religious workers from financial burdens placed by the government.

This statement comes from a letter by King Artaxerxes of Persia, addressed to Ezra and the leaders of the Jewish people returning from exile. The king is granting special privileges to those serving in the temple, ensuring they can focus on their religious duties without interference from civil authorities. This exemption highlights the respect and autonomy given to the temple and its staff within the Persian Empire.

The Aramaic behind Ezra 7:24

  • "Nethinims" (נְתִינִין, nethinim): This word refers to a group of temple servants assigned to assist the Levites. Their mention shows that not only the main religious leaders but also their helpers were protected by this law.
  • "Not lawful" (לָא שָׁרֵא, la sharei): This phrase means it is not permitted or allowed. The wording emphasizes the strictness of the prohibition—no authority could legally impose these taxes.
  • "Toll, tribute, or custom" (מִנְדָּה, minda; בְּלוֹ, belo; and הֲלָךְ, halakh): These three terms cover different types of taxes or fees, showing that the exemption was broad and comprehensive, leaving no room for loopholes.

Why Ezra 7:24 matters

  • Ezra 7:24 clarifies that the temple workers were to be free from all forms of government taxation, which would have been a significant relief and encouragement for those dedicating their lives to religious service.
  • The verse shows the Persian king’s support for the Jewish religion and its practices, which is notable given the historical context of foreign rule.
  • This exemption connects to the wider passage by illustrating the favor and authority given to Ezra and the Jewish community, helping them rebuild their religious life after exile.

Where else these words appear

“tribute” Hebrew H1093 · used in 3 verses

  • Ezra 4:13 Be it known now unto the king, that, if this city be builded, and the walls set up again, then will they not pay toll, tribute, and custom, and so thou shalt endamage the revenue of the kings.
  • Ezra 4:20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all countries beyond the river; and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them.

“custom” Hebrew H1983 · used in 3 verses

  • Ezra 4:13 Be it known now unto the king, that, if this city be builded, and the walls set up again, then will they not pay toll, tribute, and custom, and so thou shalt endamage the revenue of the kings.
  • Ezra 4:20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all countries beyond the river; and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them.

“Levites” Hebrew H3879 · used in 4 verses

  • Ezra 6:16 And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with joy,
  • Ezra 6:18 And they set the priests in their divisions, and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God, which is at Jerusalem; as it is written in the book of Moses.
  • Ezra 7:13 I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and of his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee.

“toll” Hebrew H4061 · used in 4 verses

  • Ezra 4:13 Be it known now unto the king, that, if this city be builded, and the walls set up again, then will they not pay toll, tribute, and custom, and so thou shalt endamage the revenue of the kings.
  • Ezra 4:20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all countries beyond the river; and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them.
  • Ezra 6:8 Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the king's goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered.