Old Testament

Ezra 4:7

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In the time of King Artaxerxes, a group of individuals, including Bishlam, Mithredath, and Tabeel, decided to communicate with the king of Persia.

Author
Ezra the priest and scribe
Written
Around 440 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Returning Jewish exiles
CBTClear Bible Translation

During the reign of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and their companions wrote to King Artaxerxes of Persia. The letter was written in the Syrian language and interpreted in the Syrian language.

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In the time of King Artaxerxes, a group of individuals, including Bishlam, Mithredath, and Tabeel, decided to communicate with the king of Persia. They wrote a letter to express their concerns or requests. This letter was significant enough to be written in the Syrian language, which indicates its importance to the people involved. The fact that it was also interpreted in the same language shows that clarity was essential for the message to be understood correctly. This moment highlights the political dynamics of the time, where communication played a crucial role in governance and relationships between different groups. The use of a specific language suggests that the writers wanted to ensure their message was received accurately by the king and his officials. This event reflects the complexities of communication in a multicultural society, where language can bridge or create divides. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the importance of clear communication in our own lives.

Key themes

Related topics

communication, wisdom, truth

How to apply Ezra 4:7 to your life

Consider how you communicate with others in your life. Are you clear and intentional in your messages? Just like the writers of the letter, strive to ensure your words are understood, especially in important conversations. Effective communication can strengthen relationships and resolve conflicts more easily. Remember, clarity is key!

Curated for this public verse page. Ezra Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Ezra 4:7 mean?

Ezra 4:7 describes a group of individuals, including Bishlam, Mithredath, and Tabeel, who wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes of Persia during his reign. The letter was significant enough to be written and interpreted in the Syrian language, highlighting the importance of clear communication in political matters.

What is the significance of the Syrian language in Ezra 4:7?

The use of the Syrian language in Ezra 4:7 indicates that the writers wanted to ensure their message was accurately understood by King Artaxerxes and his officials. This choice of language reflects the cultural dynamics and the importance of effective communication in governance.

Who are Bishlam, Mithredath, and Tabeel in Ezra 4:7?

Bishlam, Mithredath, and Tabeel are individuals mentioned in Ezra 4:7 who, along with their companions, wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes. Their identities suggest they were likely leaders or representatives of a group concerned with political issues of the time.

What can we learn from Ezra 4:7 about communication?

Ezra 4:7 teaches the importance of clear and intentional communication, especially in significant matters. Just as the writers ensured their message was understood by using a specific language, we should strive for clarity in our own communications to strengthen relationships and resolve misunderstandings.

The Book of Ezra
Book Summary

The Book of Ezra

Ezra 1

In the first year of the reign of Cyrus, king of Persia, the Lord stirs his spirit to fulfill the prophecy of Jeremiah. Cyrus makes a proclamation throughout his kingdom and puts it in writing, stating that the Lord God of heaven has given him all the kingdoms of the earth and has charged him to build a house for Him at Jerusalem in Judah. He grants permission for any of God’s people to return to Jerusalem to build the house of the Lord God of Israel, and he encourages those who remain behind to support the returning exiles with silver, gold, goods, and beasts, in addition to a freewill offering for the house of God.

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