The verses in this chapter are not merely the king’s decree; they also include Ezra’s reflections on that decree. Together they show how the king bestowed on Ezra extraordinary powers, while also establishing ordinances meant to last beyond Ezra’s lifetime. Ezra was a priest and an expert in the law. King Artaxerxes gave Ezra a letter that began, Greetings from the great King Artaxerxes to Ezra the priest and expert in the teachings of the God of heaven. The king also gave Ezra authority to take with him to Jerusalem all the people of Israel who wished to return in a second journey to Judea. Ezra was instructed to find out whether the laws of his God were being obeyed. He was permitted to take three specific offerings silver and gold from the king and his counselors, offerings from the non-Jewish residents of Babylon, and gifts Ezra gathered from the Jewish community.

These funds were to be used to buy animals and other items needed for sacrifices at the temple. The exact number to be purchased was left entirely to Ezra’s judgment. The king commanded all treasurers to give Ezra their full support, so that the God of heaven would not be angry with them. Everyone connected with temple service was to be exempt from taxes. Ezra was encouraged to use the wisdom God had given him to appoint officials to gov-ern the people. He was also granted authority to punish anyone who disobeyed either the law of the Lord or the Persian law, with penalties ranging from death and banishment to confiscation of property or imprisonment. Although Ezra might have credited his own importance for this favor, he gave all glory to God alone. Ezra recognized God’s hand in every detail. His faith shaped his leader-ship and obedience with humility.

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