Old Testament
Ezra 4:11
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This is a copy of the letter they sent to King Artaxerxes: 'Your servants, the men on this side of the river, at such a time.'
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This is the copy of the letter that they sent unto him, even unto Artaxerxes the king; Thy servants the men on this side the river, and at such a time.
What Ezra 4:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a letter being sent to King Artaxerxes. The letter is from a group of people who identify themselves as the servants on one side of the river. They are communicating important information to the king about their situation. This moment highlights the significance of communication in governance and the relationships between different regions. The phrase 'at such a time' suggests that there is a specific context or urgency behind their message. It reflects the careful planning and strategy involved in reaching out to authority figures. This letter serves as a reminder of how people sought to establish their identity and intentions clearly. It also shows the importance of being heard and recognized by those in power, which is a universal desire. Overall, this verse captures a moment of political interaction that is both formal and significant, emphasizing the need for clarity in communication during important times in history. It reminds us that our words can carry weight and influence decisions.
How to apply Ezra 4:11 to your life
When you need to communicate something important, be clear and direct. Identify yourself and your purpose to ensure your message is understood. Remember that how you present your thoughts can impact the response you receive. Take time to consider the context of your communication for better outcomes. Your words matter, so use them wisely to connect with others effectively.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezra Summary
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Keep studying Ezra 4:11
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Ezra
- Author
- Ezra the priest and scribe
- Written
- Around 440 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Returning Jewish exiles
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezra 4:11 mean?
Ezra 4:11 refers to a letter sent to King Artaxerxes by a group of people identifying themselves as servants on one side of the river. The verse emphasizes the importance of communication in governance and highlights the context of their message.
What is the significance of the phrase 'at such a time' in Ezra 4:11?
The phrase 'at such a time' indicates that there is a specific context or urgency behind the message being sent to King Artaxerxes. It suggests that the situation required careful timing and consideration in their communication.
Who are the 'servants' mentioned in Ezra 4:11?
The 'servants' mentioned in Ezra 4:11 are the individuals or group of people writing the letter to King Artaxerxes. They are asserting their identity and position in relation to the king and the governance of the region.
How does Ezra 4:11 relate to communication in governance?
Ezra 4:11 illustrates the role of written communication in governance, showing how individuals sought to convey their needs and establish their identity to those in power. It underscores the necessity for clarity and purpose in political interactions.
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