Ezra
Ezra in the Bible — son of Seraiah (EZR 7:1), scribe skilled in the Law (EZR 7:6). Ezra belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 3 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “help; court”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 3 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Ezra was a male Levite, identified as the son of Seraiah and recognized as a skilled scribe in the Law. As a priest, he would have been a descendant of Aaron, emphasizing his role in the religious leadership of Israel. His expertise in the Law and priestly heritage positioned him as a key figure in the restoration of Israel's covenant faithfulness after the exile.
Names & Titles
The name Ezra means 'help' and is a proper name mentioned in Ezra 7:1. This name does not appear to have been given directly by God but reflects his role and character as recorded in Scripture.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Ezra as a descendant of Seraiah and infers Meshullam as his father. Beyond these, no additional family relationships are recorded, leaving his immediate lineage primarily tied to his priestly ancestry.
Significance
Ezra is significant in the biblical narrative for his leadership in returning the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem and his dedication to the study and teaching of God's Law. His role as a priest and scribe was crucial in reestablishing the centrality of Scripture and religious purity among the post-exilic community. Through his reforms and covenant renewal efforts, Ezra helped preserve the identity and worship of Israel during a pivotal period.
Key Events
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- עֶזְרָא
- Transliteration
- ezra
- Meaning
- help
- Greek
- Εσδρας
- Reference
- EZR 7:1
- Strong's
- H5830
Notes
as "priest" would be a descendant of Aaron
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ezra in the Bible?
Ezra was a male Levite, identified as the son of Seraiah and recognized as a skilled scribe in the Law. As a priest, he would have been a descendant of Aaron, emphasizing his role in the religious leadership of Israel. His expertise in the Law and priestly heritage positioned him as a key figure in the restoration of Israel's covenant faithfulness after the exile.
What does the name Ezra mean?
The name Ezra means “help; court” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.