Who Was Artaxerxes in the Bible?
A Persian King
Artaxerxes, known in Hebrew as אַרְתַּחְשַׁ֫שְׂתְּא (Artachshasta’), is a significant figure in the historical accounts of Ezra and Nehemiah. The name Artaxerxes, meaning “He who reigns through truth” in Persian, was borne by multiple Persian kings. The king most commonly identified in the Old Testament is Artaxerxes I (465-424 B.C.), whose reign aligns with the timelines of Ezra and Nehemiah. He is known for his interactions with the Jewish people, particularly concerning the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem and the restoration of their worship practices.
Biblical References to Artaxerxes
Artaxerxes is mentioned several times in the Bible, particularly in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. These references provide insights into his role and influence in the lives of the Jewish people during the post-exilic period.
- Ezra 6:14: “So the elders of the Jews continued to build and prosper under the preaching of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah, a descendant of Iddo. They finished building the temple according to the command of the God of Israel and the decrees of Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes kings of Persia.”
- Ezra 7:1, 7:7, 7:11, 8:1: These verses discuss Artaxerxes’ decrees and the grant of resources to Ezra for the journey and the temple.
- Nehemiah 2:1, 5:14, 13:6: Nehemiah records his interactions with Artaxerxes, including the king’s support for Nehemiah’s mission to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls.
Historical Context of Artaxerxes
Artaxerxes and the Jewish People
Artaxerxes played a crucial role in the restoration of the Jewish community after their exile in Babylon. His reign is marked by significant support for the Jews, facilitating their return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple. Despite being a pagan king, Artaxerxes is portrayed as a divine instrument used by God to accomplish His purposes for the Jewish people.
The Decrees of Artaxerxes
One of the most notable contributions of Artaxerxes was his issuance of decrees that greatly benefited the Jews. In Ezra 7:12-16, a letter from Artaxerxes to Ezra is recorded, which includes a decree allowing any willing Israelites to return to Jerusalem and providing them with silver, gold, and other resources for the temple and its services. This decree highlights Artaxerxes’ support and the significant role he played in the Jewish restoration efforts.
Ezra 7:12-16: “Artaxerxes, king of kings, to Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven. Peace. And now I make a decree that anyone of the people of Israel or their priests or Levites in my kingdom, who freely offers to go to Jerusalem, may go with you. For you are sent by the king and his seven counselors to make inquiries about Judah and Jerusalem according to the Law of your God, which is in your hand, and also to carry the silver and gold that the king and his counselors have freely offered to the God of Israel, whose dwelling is in Jerusalem, with all the silver and gold that you shall find in the whole province of Babylonia.”
Lessons for the Modern Christian
Recognizing Divine Providence
The story of Artaxerxes teaches modern Christians about the sovereignty of God and His ability to use even pagan rulers to accomplish His divine purposes. Artaxerxes’ support for the Jewish people, despite his pagan beliefs, shows that God can work through anyone to fulfill His plans. This encourages believers to trust in God’s providence and His overarching control over world events.
Supporting God’s Work
Artaxerxes’ generosity and support for the Jewish restoration efforts serve as an example for modern Christians to support the work of God in their communities. Just as Artaxerxes provided resources for the rebuilding of the temple, believers are called to contribute their time, talents, and treasures to advance God’s kingdom on earth.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Faithfulness
The account of Artaxerxes underscores God’s faithfulness to His promises. Despite the Jews’ exile and the challenges they faced, God remained faithful to His covenant with them, using Artaxerxes to bring about their restoration. This reassures Christians of God’s unwavering commitment to His people and His promises.
Divine Intervention
The involvement of Artaxerxes in the Jewish restoration is a testament to God’s intervention in human affairs. It illustrates how God can orchestrate events and influence leaders to achieve His purposes. For modern Christians, this is a reminder of God’s active presence in their lives and His ability to guide and protect them.
Connection to Jesus Christ
Fulfilling Prophecies
Artaxerxes’ role in the restoration of the Jewish temple and community can be seen as part of the broader narrative leading to the coming of Jesus Christ. The rebuilding of the temple and the reestablishment of worship in Jerusalem set the stage for the eventual arrival of the Messiah, fulfilling numerous Old Testament prophecies.
Jesus as the Ultimate Fulfillment
While Artaxerxes facilitated the physical restoration of the Jewish people, Jesus Christ provides the ultimate spiritual restoration. Artaxerxes’ actions foreshadow the greater work of Jesus, who came to restore humanity’s relationship with God through His life, death, and resurrection. This connection emphasizes the continuity of God’s redemptive plan throughout history.
Conclusion
Artaxerxes, a significant Persian king mentioned in the Bible, played a pivotal role in the restoration of the Jewish people after their exile. His support for the rebuilding of the temple and the reestablishment of worship in Jerusalem highlights the sovereignty and faithfulness of God. For modern Christians, the story of Artaxerxes serves as a powerful reminder of God’s providence, the importance of supporting His work, and the assurance of His promises. Moreover, it points to the greater restoration brought by Jesus Christ, who fulfills God’s redemptive plan for all humanity.