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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Ezra 4:7 And in the days of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes. It was written in Aramaic and then translated.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ezra/4-7.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/15_Ezr_04_07.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ezra 4:7 - Opposition under Xerxes and Artaxerxes" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="And in the days of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes. 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The letter was written in Aramaic script and in the Aramaic language. <a href="/nlt/ezra/4.htm">New Living Translation</a> Even later, during the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia, the enemies of Judah, led by Bishlam, Mithredath, and Tabeel, sent a letter to Artaxerxes in the Aramaic language, and it was translated for the king. <a href="/esv/ezra/4.htm">English Standard Version</a> In the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam and Mithredath and Tabeel and the rest of their associates wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia. The letter was written in Aramaic and translated. <a href="/bsb/ezra/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes. It was written in Aramaic and then translated. <a href="/kjv/ezra/4.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/ezra/4.htm">New King James Version</a> In the days of Artaxerxes also, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabel, and the rest of their companions wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the letter was written in Aramaic script, and translated into the Aramaic language. <a href="/nasb_/ezra/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his colleagues wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the text of the letter was written in Aramaic and translated from Aramaic. <a href="/nasb/ezra/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel and the rest of his colleagues wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the text of the letter was written in Aramaic and translated from Aramaic. <a href="/nasb77/ezra/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his colleagues, wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the text of the letter was written in Aramaic and translated from Aramaic. <a href="/lsb/ezra/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his colleagues wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the text of the letter was written in Aramaic and translated from Aramaic. <a href="/amp/ezra/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Later, in the days of [King] Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel and the rest of their associates wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the text of the letter was written in Aramaic and translated from Aramaic. <a href="/csb/ezra/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> During the time of King Artaxerxes of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel and the rest of his colleagues wrote to King Artaxerxes. The letter was written in Aramaic and translated. <a href="/hcsb/ezra/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> During the time of King Artaxerxes of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel and the rest of his colleagues wrote to King Artaxerxes. The letter was written in Aramaic and translated. <a href="/asv/ezra/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his companions, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian character, and set forth in the Syrian tongue. <a href="/cev/ezra/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Later, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and their advisors got together and wrote a letter to Artaxerxes when he was king of Persia. It was written in Aramaic and had to be translated. <a href="/erv/ezra/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his companions, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian character, and set forth in the Syrian tongue. <a href="/gwt/ezra/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their group wrote to him when Artaxerxes was king of Persia. The letter was written with the Aramaic script and translated into the Aramaic language. <a href="/gnt/ezra/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> Again in the reign of Emperor Artaxerxes of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and their associates wrote a letter to the emperor. The letter was written in Aramaic and was to be translated when read. <a href="/isv/ezra/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> While Artaxerxes was king of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their co-conspirators wrote in the Aramaic language and script to King Artaxerxes of Persia. Aramaic: <a href="/msb/ezra/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes. It was written in Aramaic and then translated. <a href="/net/ezra/4.htm">NET Bible</a> And during the reign of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their colleagues wrote to King Artaxerxes of Persia. This letter was first written in Aramaic but then translated. [Aramaic:] <a href="/nheb/ezra/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> In the days of Artachshasta wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his companions, to Artachshasta king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in Aramaic, and set forth in the Aramaic language. <a href="/wbt/ezra/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions to Artaxerxes king of Persia, and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian language, and interpreted in the Syrian language. <a href="/web/ezra/4.htm">World English Bible</a> In the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his companions wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in Syrian and delivered in the Syrian language. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/ezra/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and in the days of Artaxerxes have Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his companions written to Artaxerxes king of Persia, and the writing of the letter is written in Aramaic, and interpreted in Aramaic. <a href="/ylt/ezra/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and in the days of Artaxerxes have Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his companions written unto Artaxerxes king of Persia, and the writing of the letter is written in Aramaean, and interpreted in Aramaean. <a href="/slt/ezra/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And in the days of Arthasatha, wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his colleagues, to Arthasatha, king of Persia; and the writing of the letter being written in Syriac, and being interpreted in Syriac.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/ezra/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes, Beselam, Mithridates, and Thabeel, and the rest that were in the council wrote to Artaxerxes king of the Persians : and the letter of accusation was written in Syriac, and was read in the Syrian tongue. <a href="/cpdv/ezra/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And so, in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, and Tabeel, and the others who were in their council wrote to Artaxerxes, king of the Persians. Now the letter of accusation was written in Syriac, and was being read in the Syrian language. <a href="/nabre/ezra/4.htm">New American Bible</a> Again, in the time of Artaxerxes, Tabeel and the rest of his fellow officials, in concert with Mithredath, wrote to Artaxerxes, king of Persia. The document was written in Aramaic and was accompanied by a translation. <a href="/nrsvce/ezra/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam and Mithredath and Tabeel and the rest of their associates wrote to King Artaxerxes of Persia; the letter was written in Aramaic and translated.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/ezra/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And in the days of Artakhshisht, wrote Bishlam, Mahderat, Tabaiel, and the rest of their companions to Artakhshisht king of Persia; and the letter was written in Aramaic and interpreted in Aramaic. <a href="/hpbt/ezra/4.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> In the days of Artakhshesht, Beshlam, Mahderath and Tabeil wrote and asked, and the rest in like manner, Artakhshesht, King of Persia, and the text of the letter was written in Aramaic and it was translated into Aramaic.<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/ezra/4.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his companions, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Aramaic character, and set forth in the Aramaic tongue. <a href="/sep/ezra/4.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And in the days of Arthasastha, Tabeel wrote peaceably to Mithradates and to the rest of his fellow-servants: the tribute-gatherer wrote to Arthasastha king of the Persians a writing in the Syrian tongue, and the same interpreted. <a href="/parallel/ezra/4-7.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sh6ec6iQe9M?start=853" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/ezra/4.htm">Opposition under Xerxes and Artaxerxes</a> 6At the beginning of the reign of Xerxes, an accusation was lodged against the people of Judah and Jerusalem. 7<a href="/hebrew/3117.htm" title="3117: ū·ḇî·mê (Conj-w, Prep-b:: N-mpc) -- Day. From an unused root meaning to be hot; a day, whether literal, or figurative.">And in the days</a> <a href="/hebrew/783.htm" title="783: ’ar·taḥ·šaś·tā (N-proper-ms) -- Or Artachshasht; or by permutation Artachshactu; of foreign origin; Artachshasta, a title of several Persian kings.">of Artaxerxes king</a> <a href="/hebrew/6539.htm" title="6539: pā·rās (N-proper-fs) -- A country in W. Asia which conquered Bab. Of foreign origin; Paras, an Eastern country, including its inhabitants.">of Persia,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1312.htm" title="1312: biš·lām (N-proper-ms) -- Perhaps son of peace, a Pers. Of foreign derivation; Bishlam, a Pers.">Bishlam,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4990.htm" title="4990: miṯ·rə·ḏāṯ (N-proper-ms) -- Two Persians. Of Persian origin; Mithredath, the name of two Persians.">Mithredath,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2870.htm" title="2870: ṭā·ḇə·’êl (N-proper-ms) -- From towb and 'el; pleasing God; Tabeel, the name of a Syrian and of a Persian.">Tabeel,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7605.htm" title="7605: ū·šə·’ār (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- Rest, residue, remnant. From sha'ar; a remainder.">and the rest of</a> <a href="/hebrew/3674.htm" title="3674: kə·nå̄·wō·ṯō (N-mpc:: 3ms) -- Associate, colleague. From kanah; a colleague.">his associates</a> <a href="/hebrew/3789.htm" title="3789: kā·ṯaḇ (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To write. A primitive root; to grave, by implication, to write.">wrote a letter</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: me·leḵ (N-msc) -- King. From malak; a king."></a> <a href="/hebrew/783.htm" title="783: ʾar·taḥ·šaś·tå̄ (N-proper-ms) -- Or Artachshasht; or by permutation Artachshactu; of foreign origin; Artachshasta, a title of several Persian kings.">Artaxerxes.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3791.htm" title="3791: ū·ḵə·ṯāḇ (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- A writing. From kathab; something written, i.e. A writing, record or book."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5406.htm" title="5406: han·niš·tə·wān (Art:: N-ms) -- A letter. Probably of Persian origin; an epistle.">It</a> <a href="/hebrew/3789.htm" title="3789: kā·ṯūḇ (V-Qal-QalPassPrtcpl-ms) -- To write. A primitive root; to grave, by implication, to write.">was written</a> <a href="/hebrew/762.htm" title="762: ’ă·rā·mîṯ (N-proper-fs) -- The language of Aram (Syria). Feminine of 'Arammiy;in Aramean.">in Aramaic</a> <a href="/hebrew/8638.htm" title="8638: ū·mə·ṯur·gām (Conj-w:: V-Pual-Prtcpl-ms) -- To interpret, translate. A denominative from ragam in the sense of throwing over; to transfer, i.e. Translate.">and then translated.</a> <a href="/hebrew/762.htm" title="762: ’ă·rā·mîṯ (N-proper-fs) -- The language of Aram (Syria). Feminine of 'Arammiy;in Aramean."></a> 8Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe wrote the letter against Jerusalem to King Artaxerxes as follows:…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/nehemiah/2-19.htm">Nehemiah 2:19</a> But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about this, they mocked us and ridiculed us, saying, “What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” <a href="/nehemiah/6-5.htm">Nehemiah 6:5-9</a> The fifth time, Sanballat sent me this same message by his young servant, who had in his hand an unsealed letter / that read: “It is reported among the nations—and Geshem agrees—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and this is why you are building the wall. According to these reports, you are to become their king, / and you have even appointed prophets in Jerusalem to proclaim on your behalf: ‘There is a king in Judah.’ Soon these rumors will reach the ears of the king. So come, let us confer together.” ... <a href="/daniel/6-4.htm">Daniel 6:4-5</a> Thus the administrators and satraps sought a charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom, but they could find no charge or corruption, because he was trustworthy, and no negligence or corruption was found in him. / Finally these men said, “We will never find any charge against this Daniel unless we find something against him concerning the law of his God.” <a href="/esther/3-8.htm">Esther 3:8-9</a> Then Haman informed King Xerxes, “There is a certain people scattered and dispersed among the peoples of every province of your kingdom. Their laws are different from everyone else’s, and they do not obey the king’s laws. So it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them. / If it pleases the king, let a decree be issued to destroy them, and I will deposit ten thousand talents of silver into the royal treasury to pay those who carry it out.” <a href="/2_kings/17-24.htm">2 Kings 17:24</a> Then the king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took possession of Samaria and lived in its towns. <a href="/2_kings/17-33.htm">2 Kings 17:33-34</a> They worshiped the LORD, but they also served their own gods according to the customs of the nations from which they had been carried away. / To this day they are still practicing their former customs. None of them worship the LORD or observe the statutes, ordinances, laws, and commandments that the LORD gave the descendants of Jacob, whom He named Israel. <a href="/2_kings/17-41.htm">2 Kings 17:41</a> So these nations worshiped the LORD but also served their idols, and to this day their children and grandchildren continue to do as their fathers did. <a href="/2_chronicles/36-22.htm">2 Chronicles 36:22-23</a> In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah, the LORD stirred the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia to send a proclamation throughout his kingdom and to put it in writing as follows: / “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: ‘The LORD, the God of heaven, who has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, has appointed me to build a house for Him at Jerusalem in Judah. Whoever among you belongs to His people, may the LORD his God be with him, and may he go up.’” <a href="/ezra/1-1.htm">Ezra 1:1-4</a> In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah, the LORD stirred the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia to send a proclamation throughout his kingdom and to put it in writing as follows: / “This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: ‘The LORD, the God of heaven, who has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, has appointed me to build a house for Him at Jerusalem in Judah. / Whoever among you belongs to His people, may his God be with him, and may he go to Jerusalem in Judah and build the house of the LORD, the God of Israel; He is the God who is in Jerusalem. ... <a href="/ezra/5-6.htm">Ezra 5:6-7</a> This is the text of the letter that Tattenai the governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates, the officials in the region, sent to King Darius. / The report they sent him read as follows: To King Darius: All peace. <a href="/ezra/6-6.htm">Ezra 6:6-12</a> Therefore Darius decreed: To Tattenai governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and your associates and officials in the region: You must stay away from that place! / Leave this work on the house of God alone. Let the governor and elders of the Jews rebuild this house of God on its original site. / I hereby decree what you must do for these elders of the Jews who are rebuilding this house of God: The cost is to be paid in full to these men from the royal treasury out of the taxes of the provinces west of the Euphrates, so that the work will not be hindered. ... <a href="/acts/4-18.htm">Acts 4:18-21</a> Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. / But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God. / For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” ... <a href="/acts/5-27.htm">Acts 5:27-29</a> They brought them in and made them stand before the Sanhedrin, where the high priest interrogated them. / “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us responsible for this man’s blood.” / But Peter and the other apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men. <a href="/acts/24-1.htm">Acts 24:1-9</a> Five days later the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a lawyer named Tertullus, who presented to the governor their case against Paul. / When Paul had been called in, Tertullus opened the prosecution: “Because of you, we have enjoyed a lasting peace, and your foresight has brought improvements to this nation. / In every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with all gratitude. ... <a href="/acts/25-7.htm">Acts 25:7</a> When Paul arrived, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him, bringing many serious charges that they could not prove.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions, to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue.A.Bishlam.<a href="/ezra/4-9.htm">Ezra 4:9,17</a> Then wrote Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions; the Dinaites, the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the Apharsites, the Archevites, the Babylonians, the Susanchites, the Dehavites, and the Elamites, … <a href="/ezra/5-6.htm">Ezra 5:6</a> The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king:<a href="/ezra/7-27.htm">Ezra 7:27</a> Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers, which hath put such a thing as this in the king's heart, to beautify the house of the LORD which is in Jerusalem:<a href="/2_kings/18-26.htm">2 Kings 18:26</a> Then said Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebna, and Joah, unto Rabshakeh, Speak, I pray thee, to thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand it: and talk not with us in the Jews' language in the ears of the people that are on the wall.<a href="/isaiah/36-11.htm">Isaiah 36:11</a> Then said Eliakim and Shebna and Joah unto Rabshakeh, Speak, I pray thee, unto thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand it: and speak not to us in the Jews' language, in the ears of the people that are on the wall.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_kings/18-26.htm">Aramaic</a> <a href="/nehemiah/13-6.htm">Artaxerxes</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-1.htm">Ar-Ta-Xerx'es</a> <a href="/ruth/3-11.htm">Character</a> <a href="/ezra/6-13.htm">Colleagues</a> <a href="/2_kings/9-2.htm">Companions</a> <a href="/ezra/1-8.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/genesis/41-13.htm">Interpreted</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/21-12.htm">Letter</a> <a href="/ezra/1-8.htm">Mithredath</a> <a href="/ezra/1-8.htm">Mith'redath</a> <a href="/ezra/4-5.htm">Persia</a> <a href="/ezra/4-3.htm">Rest</a> <a href="/isaiah/8-1.htm">Script</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/7-14.htm">Syrian</a> <a href="/isaiah/7-6.htm">Tabeel</a> <a href="/exodus/6-3.htm">Text</a> <a href="/ezra/4-6.htm">Time</a> <a href="/2_samuel/23-2.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-5.htm">Translated</a> <a href="/ezra/1-1.htm">Writing</a> <a href="/ezra/4-6.htm">Written</a> <a href="/ezra/4-6.htm">Wrote</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/isaiah/36-11.htm">Aramaic</a> <a href="/ezra/4-8.htm">Artaxerxes</a> <a href="/ezra/4-8.htm">Ar-Ta-Xerx'es</a> <a href="/proverbs/12-4.htm">Character</a> <a href="/ezra/4-9.htm">Colleagues</a> <a href="/ezra/4-9.htm">Companions</a> <a href="/ezra/4-10.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/matthew/1-23.htm">Interpreted</a> <a href="/ezra/4-8.htm">Letter</a> <a href="/ezra/1-8.htm">Mithredath</a> <a href="/ezra/1-8.htm">Mith'redath</a> <a href="/ezra/4-9.htm">Persia</a> <a href="/ezra/4-9.htm">Rest</a> <a href="/esther/1-22.htm">Script</a> <a href="/isaiah/36-11.htm">Syrian</a> <a href="/isaiah/7-6.htm">Tabeel</a> <a href="/esther/3-14.htm">Text</a> <a href="/ezra/4-10.htm">Time</a> <a href="/esther/7-4.htm">Tongue</a> <a href="/ezra/4-18.htm">Translated</a> <a href="/ezra/7-11.htm">Writing</a> <a href="/ezra/4-8.htm">Written</a> <a href="/ezra/4-8.htm">Wrote</a><div class="vheading2">Ezra 4</div>1. <a href="/ezra/4-1.htm">The adversaries, being not accepted in the building of the temple with the Jews, </a> 4. <a href="/ezra/4-4.htm">endeavor to hinder it</a> 7. <a href="/ezra/4-7.htm">Their letter to Artaxerxes</a> 17. <a href="/ezra/4-17.htm">The answer and decree of Artaxerxes</a> 23. <a href="/ezra/4-23.htm">The building is hindered</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ezra/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ezra/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/ezra/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>And in the days of Artaxerxes king of Persia Artaxerxes I reigned from 465-424 BC, a period marked by significant political and cultural developments in the Persian Empire. This era followed the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem, which began under Cyrus the Great. Artaxerxes' reign is significant in biblical history as it includes the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, who were instrumental in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and its walls. The mention of Artaxerxes situates this event within a broader historical context, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the Jewish community in re-establishing themselves in their homeland.Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates These individuals were likely local officials or leaders in the region surrounding Jerusalem. Their names suggest a mix of Persian and possibly Babylonian origins, indicating the diverse population in the area under Persian rule. The opposition from these figures reflects the broader resistance faced by the Jewish people from neighboring groups who were threatened by the re-establishment of a strong Jewish presence in Jerusalem. This opposition is a recurring theme in the post-exilic period, as seen in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah.wrote a letter to Artaxerxes The act of writing a letter to the king underscores the formal and serious nature of the opposition. It was common in the Persian Empire for local leaders to communicate with the king regarding regional issues. This letter represents an official complaint against the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem, aiming to halt the progress by appealing to the king's authority. The use of written communication also highlights the administrative sophistication of the Persian Empire, which maintained control over vast territories through such correspondence.It was written in Aramaic and then translated Aramaic was the lingua franca of the Persian Empire, used for official documents and communication across different regions. The mention of translation suggests that the letter was initially composed in Aramaic, the language of administration, and then translated, possibly into Hebrew or another local dialect for the Jewish leaders. This detail emphasizes the multicultural and multilingual nature of the Persian Empire, as well as the challenges of communication and governance in such a diverse setting. The use of Aramaic also reflects the historical context of the Jewish people, who had adopted Aramaic during the Babylonian exile.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/a/artaxerxes.htm">Artaxerxes</a> The king of Persia during this period, likely Artaxerxes I, who reigned from 465-424 BC. His reign was marked by various administrative reforms and interactions with the Jewish people returning from exile. 2. <a href="/topical/b/bishlam,_mithredath,_tabeel.htm">Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel</a> These individuals were officials or leaders who opposed the rebuilding efforts of the Jews in Jerusalem. Their names suggest they were likely of Persian or Babylonian origin, involved in the administration of the region. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_letter.htm">The Letter</a> A formal complaint written to King Artaxerxes, expressing opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem. This letter was initially composed in Aramaic, the diplomatic language of the Persian Empire, and then translated. 4. <a href="/topical/a/aramaic_language.htm">Aramaic Language</a> The language used for the letter, indicating the official and formal nature of the communication. Aramaic was widely used in the Persian Empire for administrative purposes. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_opposition_to_rebuilding.htm">The Opposition to Rebuilding</a> This event highlights the ongoing resistance faced by the Jewish people as they attempted to rebuild their city and temple after returning from Babylonian exile.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/u/understanding_opposition.htm">Understanding Opposition</a> Just as the Jews faced opposition in rebuilding, Christians today may face resistance when pursuing God's work. Recognize that opposition can be a part of fulfilling God's purposes. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_prayer_and_perseverance.htm">The Power of Prayer and Perseverance</a> Despite opposition, the Jewish people continued their efforts. Christians are encouraged to persevere in prayer and action, trusting in God's timing and provision. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_language_and_communication.htm">The Importance of Language and Communication</a> The use of Aramaic for official communication underscores the importance of clear and effective communication in advancing God's work. Christians should strive for clarity and integrity in their interactions. <a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty_in_political_affairs.htm">God's Sovereignty in Political Affairs</a> The involvement of Persian kings in the affairs of the Jewish people reminds us that God is sovereign over political leaders and events. Trust in God's ultimate control over world affairs. <a href="/topical/c/community_and_leadership.htm">Community and Leadership</a> The opposition was addressed by a community of leaders. This highlights the importance of godly leadership and community support in overcoming challenges.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ezra_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ezra 4</a> <a href="/q/does_ezra_4_6-7_conflict_with_persian_timelines.htm">Does Ezra 4:6’s reference to Xerxes followed immediately by Artaxerxes in verse 7 create a chronological problem with established Persian timelines? </a> <a href="/q/why_blame_locals,_not_persian_policy,_in_ezra.htm">In Ezra 4:23–24, how can the abrupt cessation of the rebuilding project be fully attributed to local opposition without considering wider Persian imperial policy?</a> <a href="/q/why_does_ezra_4_6-7_conflict_with_history.htm">Why does Ezra 4:6–7 mention Persian kings in a sequence that appears to conflict with known historical Persian records? </a> <a href="/q/how_does_ezra_4_1-2_align_with_archaeology.htm">In Ezra 4:1–2, how can we reconcile the reference to “the enemies of Judah and Benjamin” with archaeological evidence that suggests more complex local alliances? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ezra/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(7) In the days of Artaxerxes.--This must be Gomates, the Magian priest who personated Smerdis, the dead son of Cyrus, and reigned only seven months: note that the expression used is "days," and not "reign" as in the previous verse. This Artaxerxes has been thought by many commentators to be the Longimanus of the sequel of this book and of Nehemiah, and they have identified the Ahasuerus of Ezra and Esther with Xerxes. This would explain the reference to "the walls" in <a href="/ezra/4-12.htm" title="Be it known to the king, that the Jews which came up from you to us are come to Jerusalem, building the rebellious and the bad city, and have set up the walls thereof, and joined the foundations.">Ezra 4:12</a>; but in <a href="/context/ezra/4-23.htm" title="Now when the copy of king Artaxerxes' letter was read before Rehum, and Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went up in haste to Jerusalem to the Jews, and made them to cease by force and power.">Ezra 4:23-24</a> the sequence of events is strict, and the word "ceased" links the parts of the narrative into unity. Moreover, the Persian princes had often more than one name. At the same time, there is nothing to make such an anticipatory and parenthetical insertion impossible.In the Syrian tongue.--The characters and the words were Syrian or Aramaic; this explains the transition to another language at this point,<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ezra/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 7. - And in the days of Artaxerxes. See the comment on ver. 6. If Artaxerxes be the Pseudo-Smerdis, we can readily understand why an application was not made to him at once, and how it came about that the Jews recommenced their building, as they appear from vers. 12, 13 to have done. The Pseudo-Smerdis was a usurper; his reign was a time of partial anarchy; in a distant part of the empire it would not be known for a while who was king. Men would be thrown on themselves, and would do as it seemed good in their own eyes. Later, there may have been some doubt whether a king, who was known to be a religious reformer, would follow the policy of his predecessor with respect to the Jews, or reverse it. Hence a delay, and then a more formal application than before for a positive decree to stop the building (see ver. 21). The rest of their companions. Literally, of their companies - the abstract for the concrete. The writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue. Rather, "in the Syrian fashion," i.e. in Syriac characters. And interpreted in the Syrian tongue. Or "translated into the Syriac language." The character and the words were alike Syriac (comp. <a href="/2_kings/18-26.htm">2 Kings 18:26</a>). Ezra gives the letter in Chaldee. <a href="/commentaries/ezra/4-7.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>And in the days וּבִימֵ֣י (ū·ḇî·mê) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3117.htm">Strong's 3117: </a> A day of Artaxerxes king אַרְתַּחְשַׁ֗שְׂתָּא (’ar·taḥ·šaś·tā) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_783.htm">Strong's 783: </a> Artaxerxes -- a son and successor of Xerxes, king of Persia of Persia, פָּרָ֑ס (pā·rās) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6539.htm">Strong's 6539: </a> Persia -- a country in west Asia which conquered Babylon Bishlam, בִּשְׁלָ֜ם (biš·lām) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1312.htm">Strong's 1312: </a> Bishlam -- perhaps 'son of peace', a Pers Mithredath, מִתְרְדָ֤ת (miṯ·rə·ḏāṯ) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4990.htm">Strong's 4990: </a> Mithredath -- two Persians Tabeel, טָֽבְאֵל֙ (ṭā·ḇə·’êl) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2870.htm">Strong's 2870: </a> Tabeal -- 'good for nothing', an Aramean (Syrian) and the rest וּשְׁאָ֣ר (ū·šə·’ār) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7605.htm">Strong's 7605: </a> Rest, residue, remnant of כנותו (kə·nā·wō·ṯōw) Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> his associates כְּנָוֺתָ֔יו (kə·nā·wō·ṯāw) Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3674.htm">Strong's 3674: </a> Associate, colleague wrote [a letter] כָּתַ֨ב (kā·ṯaḇ) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3789.htm">Strong's 3789: </a> To grave, to write to עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against Artaxerxes. אַרְתַּחְשַׁ֖שְׂתְּ (’ar·taḥ·šaśt) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_783.htm">Strong's 783: </a> Artaxerxes -- a son and successor of Xerxes, king of Persia [It] הַֽנִּשְׁתְּוָ֔ן (han·niš·tə·wān) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5406.htm">Strong's 5406: </a> An epistle was written כָּת֥וּב (kā·ṯūḇ) Verb - Qal - QalPassParticiple - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3789.htm">Strong's 3789: </a> To grave, to write in Aramaic אֲרָמִ֖ית (’ă·rā·mîṯ) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_762.htm">Strong's 762: </a> The language of Aram (Syria) and translated [for the king]. וּמְתֻרְגָּ֥ם (ū·mə·ṯur·gām) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Pual - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8638.htm">Strong's 8638: </a> To interpret, translate The Aramaic script [read as follows]: אֲרָמִֽית׃ (’ă·rā·mîṯ) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_762.htm">Strong's 762: </a> The language of Aram (Syria) <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/ezra/4-7.htm">Ezra 4:7 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/ezra/4-7.htm">OT History: Ezra 4:7 In the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam (Ezr. Ez) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ezra/4-6.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ezra 4:6"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ezra 4:6" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ezra/4-8.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ezra 4:8"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ezra 4:8" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>