Learn more about Artaxerxes

Introduction to Artaxerxes

Artaxerxes is the name of several kings of the Persian Empire mentioned in the Bible. These rulers are significant for their interactions with the Jewish people during the post-exilic period. Most notably, Artaxerxes I (465–424 BCE) played a key role in supporting the rebuilding of Jerusalem and its temple, as recounted in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. The name “Artaxerxes” is derived from Old Persian and means “Righteous Ruler” or “Whose Reign is through Truth.”

Artaxerxes Pronunciation

“Artaxerxes” is pronounced as ar-tuh-ZURK-seez, with emphasis on the third syllable.

Artaxerxes in the Bible

Artaxerxes in Ezra

The book of Ezra mentions Artaxerxes in the context of Persian decrees affecting the Jewish exiles:

• Ezra 4:7-23: Artaxerxes temporarily halts the rebuilding of Jerusalem after adversaries accuse the Jews of plotting rebellion. This interruption demonstrates the political complexities of the post-exilic period.
• Ezra 7:1-28: Artaxerxes grants permission to Ezra, a priest and scribe, to lead a group of Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem. He provides resources and authority for Ezra to teach and enforce the law of God in the land.

Artaxerxes in Nehemiah

In the book of Nehemiah, Artaxerxes I is portrayed as a benefactor of the Jewish people:

• Nehemiah 2:1-9: Artaxerxes allows Nehemiah, his cupbearer, to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city’s walls. The king grants Nehemiah letters of safe passage and materials for construction, showing his support for the project.
• Nehemiah’s Relationship with Artaxerxes: The favorable treatment Nehemiah receives reflects the king’s trust in him and highlights God’s providence in moving the hearts of rulers to fulfill His purposes.

Historical Context of Artaxerxes

Artaxerxes I, also known as Artaxerxes Longimanus, was the son of Xerxes I. His reign was marked by stability and significant interactions with subject peoples, including the Jews. The Persian policy of allowing exiled peoples to return to their homelands and restore their religious practices is evident in his treatment of the Jewish community. This approach fostered loyalty among subject nations while respecting their cultural and religious identities.

Primary Related Scriptures

• Ezra 4:7-23: Artaxerxes halts the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
• Ezra 7:1-28: Artaxerxes commissions Ezra to teach and enforce the law of God.
• Nehemiah 2:1-9: Artaxerxes supports Nehemiah’s mission to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls.

Theological Significance of Artaxerxes

Artaxerxes’s role in biblical history highlights God’s sovereignty over nations and rulers. Despite being a foreign king, Artaxerxes serves as an instrument in God’s plan to restore His people and their worship in Jerusalem. His interactions with Ezra and Nehemiah illustrate how God can use political authorities to fulfill His purposes for His covenant community.

Related Terms and Meanings

- Ezra: A priest and scribe commissioned by Artaxerxes to lead the spiritual restoration of Jerusalem. - Nehemiah: A trusted servant of Artaxerxes who spearheaded the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. - Persian Empire: The dominant empire during the post-exilic period, under which the Jews lived and interacted.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Artaxerxes

- Artaxerxes I was known as “Longimanus,” meaning “Long-Handed,” because one of his hands was longer than the other. - His reign marked a period of relative peace and stability in the Persian Empire, facilitating projects like the restoration of Jerusalem. - The favorable treatment of Ezra and Nehemiah reflects the Persian policy of respecting local customs and religions. - Artaxerxes’s decrees regarding Jerusalem are among the key historical references connecting biblical narratives to Persian history. - His reign highlights the intersection of political and religious history, showing how God’s plans unfolded through global powers.