Old Testament
Ezra 7:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And you, Ezra, using the wisdom your God has given you, appoint magistrates and judges to govern all the people beyond the river — everyone who knows the laws of your God. Those who don't know them, you must teach.
Compare translations
And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not.
What Ezra 7:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Ezra is given a significant responsibility. He is to use the wisdom that God has provided him to appoint leaders who will help govern the people living beyond the river. These leaders, called magistrates and judges, are to ensure that everyone knows and follows God's laws. Ezra's role is not just to select these leaders but also to teach those who are unfamiliar with these laws. This highlights the importance of understanding and applying God's teachings in daily life. It shows that leadership is not just about authority but also about guiding others in wisdom and knowledge. Ezra's task emphasizes the need for a community that is informed and educated about their values and beliefs. By doing this, Ezra helps create a society that honors God and lives according to His principles. This passage encourages us to seek wisdom and share it with others, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow in understanding. It reminds us that knowledge is a powerful tool for building a just and moral community.
How to apply Ezra 7:25 to your life
Consider how you can use your knowledge and skills to help others in your community. Look for opportunities to teach or mentor someone who may not have the same understanding. Remember, sharing wisdom can create a positive impact and foster growth in those around you. Be a source of guidance and support for others seeking to learn more about important values and principles in life. Your influence can help shape a better community.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezra Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezra 7:25
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezra 7:25
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 7:25 mean?
Ezra 7:25 describes Ezra's responsibility to appoint judges and magistrates to govern the people beyond the river. He is to use the wisdom given by God to ensure that everyone knows and follows God's laws, emphasizing the importance of leadership and teaching in the community.
What is the significance of wisdom in Ezra 7:25?
In Ezra 7:25, wisdom is portrayed as a divine gift that Ezra must use to lead and educate others. This highlights the role of wisdom in effective leadership and the responsibility to guide others in understanding and applying God's laws.
How does Ezra 7:25 relate to teaching?
Ezra 7:25 emphasizes the role of teaching by stating that those who do not know God's laws must be taught. This reflects the responsibility of leaders to educate their communities and ensure everyone understands their values.
What can we learn from Ezra 7:25?
From Ezra 7:25, we learn the importance of using our knowledge and skills to help others. It encourages us to take an active role in teaching and guiding our communities in understanding essential principles and values.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.