King James Version
What Does Ezra 4:8 Mean?
“Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe wrote a letter against Jerusalem to Artaxerxes the king in this sort: scribe: or, secretary”
Context
6
And in the reign of Ahasuerus, in the beginning of his reign, wrote they unto him an accusation against the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem. Ahasuerus: Heb. Ahashverosh
7
And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue. Bishlam: or, in peace companions: Heb. societies
8
Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe wrote a letter against Jerusalem to Artaxerxes the king in this sort: scribe: or, secretary
9
Then wrote Rehum the chancellor , and Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their companions; the Dinaites, the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the Apharsites, the Archevites, the Babylonians, the Susanchites, the Dehavites, and the Elamites, companions: Chald. societies
10
And the rest of the nations whom the great and noble Asnappar brought over, and set in the cities of Samaria, and the rest that are on this side the river, and at such a time. at such: Chaldee, Cheeneth
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **Rehum the chancellor.**—*The lord of judgment,* the counsellor of the Persian king, a conventional title of the civil governor.
**Shimshai the scribe**—The royal secretary.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Ezra. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Ezra 4:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Ezra 4:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge