Ezra 7:7

French PDV2017 (Parole de Vie 2017)

La septième année où Artaxerxès est roi, les Israélites, prêtres, lévites, chanteurs, portiers et serviteurs, reviennent à Jérusalem.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us that a group of people from Israel, including priests, Levites, singers, porters, and Nethinims, went to Jerusalem during the seventh year of King Artaxerxes' reign. It highlights the return of people to Jerusalem after exile.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your family and friends decided to move to a new city together. That's what happened here: a bunch of people from Israel, including special helpers like priests and singers, decided to go back to Jerusalem together.

Historical Background

Ezra, a priest and scribe, wrote this verse during the post-exilic period. It was during the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia, who allowed some Jews to return to Jerusalem from exile. The audience was the returning Israelites and those who remained in the Persian Empire.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse can remind us of the importance of community and returning to places or practices that are important to our faith. For example, if someone has been away from church for a while, this can encourage them to return and be part of a supportive community.

Topics

• return from exile
• community
• faith
• leadership
• perseverance
• divine providence

Related Verses

• Ezra 1:1-4
• Ezra 8:1-14
• Nehemiah 7:73
• Psalms 126:1-3
• John 14:2-3

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Artaxerxes in Ezra 7:7?

Artaxerxes was a king of Persia who ruled during the time of the return of the Israelites from exile. He allowed the return and supported rebuilding Jerusalem.

What were the Nethinims?

The Nethinims were a group of temple servants who were given to the Levites to help in the temple duties. They were not priests but were an important part of temple life.

Why is the seventh year significant?

The seventh year of Artaxerxes' reign marks a specific point in time when the return to Jerusalem took place, indicating a coordinated effort under the king's approval.

How does this verse fit into the broader story of the return?

Ezra 7:7 is part of a narrative that describes the gradual return of the Israelites to Jerusalem after their exile, highlighting different groups who came back at various times.