Ezra
Scribe of the Law
5th century BC
A priest and scribe who led a return from Babylon and devoted himself to studying and teaching the Law.
“Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it.” — Ezra 7:10Talk with Ezra
The story of Ezra
Ezra was a priest and a scribe who was granted permission by the Persian king to return to Jerusalem with a group of exiles. His passion was for the Law of God, which he had studied, practiced, and taught. When he arrived in the city, he was distressed by the spiritual laxity of the people, especially concerning their marriages to those who did not share their commitment to the Lord.
His leadership focused on restoring the spiritual purity of the community. He led the people in a public confession of their sins and helped them renew their commitment to live according to the Law. His dedication to teaching the people and ensuring that they understood the Scriptures helped form the basis of the spiritual life of the returning exiles, preparing them to serve as a testimony to the nations.
Ezra is remembered as a central figure in the restoration of Jewish life after the exile. His life is a testimony to the importance of the Scriptures in shaping the identity and practice of God's people. By his example and teaching, he helped to ensure that the heritage of the Law would continue to guide the people long after the return from Babylon.
Key passages
Ezra 7:1–10
Ezra resolves to study, practice, and teach the Law of God.
Ezra 9:1–15
Ezra leads the people in a prayer of confession for their sins.
Ezra 10:1–17
The people commit to separating from foreign influences and following the Law.
Key books
- Ezra
- Nehemiah
Questions you can ask
- “Why did you study the Law?”
- “Tell me about leading the return from Babylon”
- “What was the great assembly like?”
Common questions
What was Ezra's main focus?
His focus was on the restoration of the spiritual and religious life of the people by calling them back to the study and practice of God's Law.
Why was Ezra so concerned about marriages?
He believed that marrying those who did not share the faith was a compromise that would lead the people away from the worship of the one true God.
What is the importance of Ezra's work?
He helped to re-establish the spiritual foundation of the community, ensuring that the Scriptures would be at the center of their lives.