# Artaxerxes ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Artaxerxes. - **Meaning:** The name Artaxerxes is of Persian origin and means "Righteous Ruler" or "Whose reign is through truth." - **Significance:** His name reflects the nature of his reign in the Persian Empire, under which the Jews experienced favor and support for the rebuilding of Jerusalem. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** Artaxerxes I reigned from 465–424 BC. - **Historical Context:** He was a king of Persia during the period of the Jewish exile and return. His reign was marked by interactions with the Jewish community, particularly concerning the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem. ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** King of Persia. - **Significance:** As a ruler, Artaxerxes played a pivotal role in the Jewish community's restoration efforts by granting permissions and resources necessary for rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and supporting religious reforms. ## Tags - `#biblical-figures` - `#roles-king` - `#timelines-exile-and-return` ## Cross-References - Mentioned in relation to the decree to Ezra in [[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]. - Provides support for Nehemiah's mission in [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]. - His reign includes edicts and letters concerning the Jewish people and their affairs, found throughout the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. ## Key References: Artaxerxes ### Primary Passages - **Decree of Artaxerxes:** [[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]—Artaxerxes issues a decree allowing Ezra and other Israelites to return to Jerusalem and provides resources for the temple. - **Opposition During Artaxerxes' Reign:** [[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 4|Ezra Chapter 4]]—Documents a letter of opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem sent during the reign of Artaxerxes, leading to a temporary cessation of construction. - **Nehemiah’s Commission:** [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]—Nehemiah, cupbearer to Artaxerxes, receives permission and support from the king to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. ### Mentions in Genealogies - **Not applicable** Artaxerxes is a Persian king and not part of the genealogical records of Israel. ### New Testament References - **Not applicable** Artaxerxes is not directly mentioned in the New Testament. ### Prophetic/Typological References - **Restoration of Jerusalem:** The actions of Artaxerxes in allowing the return and rebuilding of Jerusalem align with God’s prophetic plans for the restoration of His people, as seen in the broader context of the prophetic books ([[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 44|Isaiah Chapter 44]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 29|Jeremiah Chapter 29]]). ### Tags - `#key-references` - `#ezra` - `#nehemiah` - `#persian-kings` - `#restoration-of-jerusalem` ## Relationships: Artaxerxes ### Family Relationships - **Parentage:** Artaxerxes was a king of Persia, a position often inherited, suggesting notable parentage, although specific familial details are not provided in the biblical texts regarding Artaxerxes' immediate family. - **Lineage:** As a Persian king, he belonged to the Achaemenid dynasty, which can be inferred from historical context, but specific details are not directly mentioned in the biblical narrative. ### Allies/Friends - **Ezra:** Artaxerxes showed favor to Ezra by granting him permission to return to Jerusalem and provided resources for the temple and law establishment ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). - **Nehemiah:** He also supported Nehemiah, his cupbearer, in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls by granting him leave and providing letters of safe passage and materials ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **Opposition in Judah:** Although not directly adversarial to Artaxerxes, local opposition in Judah, such as Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, challenged the work authorized by Artaxerxes, creating indirect conflict with his decrees ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 4|Nehemiah Chapter 4]]). ### Spiritual Relationships - **God:** While Artaxerxes was not an Israelite, his actions in supporting Ezra and Nehemiah suggest a recognition of the God of Israel. His decrees show an acknowledgment of God's role and a desire to support the Jewish community in their worship and law ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]], [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - `#relationships` - `#family` - `#allies` - `#conflicts` - `#relationship-with-God` - `#artaxerxes` - `#persiankings` ## Significance: Artaxerxes ### Theological Importance - **Instrument of God's Will:** Artaxerxes, as a Persian king, played a crucial role in the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem. His decree allowed Ezra and Nehemiah to lead their respective missions, which were pivotal in the restoration of Jerusalem and the reestablishment of the Jewish community ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]], [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). - **Divine Providence:** His actions demonstrate God's sovereignty in using foreign rulers to accomplish His purposes, aligning with the biblical theme that God can work through any leader to fulfill His covenant promises ([[Proverbs/Proverbs Chapter 21|Proverbs Chapter 21]]). ### Historical Context - **Rebuilder of Jerusalem:** Artaxerxes' reign coincides with significant events in Jewish history, particularly the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the Temple, marking a significant period of restoration after the Babylonian exile ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]], [[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 6|Ezra Chapter 6]]). - **Impactful Decrees:** His decrees facilitated the religious and social restructuring of the Jewish people, contributing to the re-establishment of the Law of Moses as the guiding principle of the community ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). ### Symbolism and Typology - **Typology of Benevolent Rulership:** Artaxerxes can be seen as a typological figure representing how God uses secular authority to support and protect His people. His kindness and support of Ezra and Nehemiah symbolize God's provision and protection over His covenant people. - **Foretaste of the Restoration of God's People:** The rebuilding efforts under Artaxerxes' rule prefigure the ultimate restoration and redemption found in Christ, who rebuilds and restores the spiritual temple, the Church ([[1 Peter/1 Peter Chapter 2|1 Peter Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - `#significance` - `#theological-themes` - `#divine-providence` - `#biblical-history` - `#typology` - `#restoration` ## Character Study: Artaxerxes ### Strengths and Virtues - **Supportive of God's People:** Artaxerxes demonstrated a willingness to support the Jewish people in their religious practices and rebuilding efforts. He granted Ezra permission to lead a group of exiles back to Jerusalem and provided resources for temple worship ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). - **Respectful of Religious Practices:** He respected the religious customs of the Israelites, as evidenced by his decree allowing sacrifices and observances according to the Law of Moses ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). ### Weaknesses and Failures - **Inconsistency:** Artaxerxes showed inconsistency by halting the rebuilding of Jerusalem at one point, due to opposition from enemies of the Jews ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 4|Ezra Chapter 4]]). This demonstrates a susceptibility to external pressures and a lack of steadfastness in his policies. ### Lessons Learned - **God Can Use Any Leader:** Artaxerxes' actions show that God can use even foreign rulers to accomplish His purposes and support His people ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). - **Influence and Authority Should Be Used Wisely:** The king's initial halting and later support of the rebuilding efforts show the importance of discernment and steadfastness in leadership decisions ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 4|Ezra Chapter 4]], [[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). ### Tags - `#strengths-supportive` - `#strengths-respectful` - `#weaknesses-inconsistent` - `#lessons-divinepurpose` - `#lessons-leadership` ## Themes and Symbolism: Artaxerxes ### Key Themes - **Divine Providence and Favor:** Artaxerxes’ interactions with Ezra and Nehemiah demonstrate the theme of God’s providence in influencing the hearts of kings to fulfill His purposes for His people ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]], [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). - **Restoration and Rebuilding:** His reign is significant for the restoration of Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple, highlighting the theme of renewal and restoration in the lives of God’s people ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]], [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **Decrees and Letters:** The decrees and letters issued by Artaxerxes symbolize the authority and support provided to God's people by earthly rulers, reflecting God's sovereignty over all nations ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]], [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). - **The Wall of Jerusalem:** The rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall under Artaxerxes' authorization symbolizes protection, identity, and the re-establishment of Israel’s place as God’s chosen people ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **God’s Sovereignty Over Nations:** Artaxerxes’ favorable treatment of the Israelites foreshadows the way God can direct the hearts of rulers to accomplish His will, prefiguring the ultimate establishment of God’s kingdom through Christ ([[Proverbs/Proverbs Chapter 21|Proverbs Chapter 21]], [[Revelation/Revelation Chapter 11|Revelation Chapter 11]]). - **Provision for God's Work:** Artaxerxes' provision for the rebuilding projects prefigures God's provision for His church and the ultimate restoration through Christ ([[Philippians/Philippians Chapter 4|Philippians Chapter 4]], [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 2|Ephesians Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - `#themes` - `#symbolism` - `#typology` - `#foreshadowing` - `#providence` - `#restoration` - `#sovereignty` - `#provision` ## Connections: Artaxerxes ### Parallel Figures - **Cyrus:** Like Artaxerxes, Cyrus is a Persian king who played a significant role in the restoration of Jerusalem, allowing the exiles to return and rebuild the temple ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 1|Ezra Chapter 1]]). - **Darius:** Another Persian ruler who, like Artaxerxes, supported the Jewish efforts to rebuild, reinforcing the decree of Cyrus ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 6|Ezra Chapter 6]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Christ as King:** Artaxerxes' support for the restoration of Jerusalem may prefigure Christ's work in restoring the spiritual temple, the Church. Though Artaxerxes was a secular king, his actions facilitated the fulfillment of God's purposes, similar to how Christ, as King, fulfills God's redemptive plan ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Persian Empire:** Artaxerxes reigned during the Achaemenid Empire, which was known for its administrative efficiency and tolerance of different cultures and religions. His decrees reflect this broader policy of the Persian rulers towards the subjugated peoples ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). - **Post-Exilic Period:** Artaxerxes' interactions with Ezra and Nehemiah occur during the post-exilic period when the Jewish community was focused on rebuilding and reforming their society after the Babylonian exile ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 1|Nehemiah Chapter 1]]). ### Tags - `#parallel-figures` - `#foreshadowing-Christ` - `#historical-context` - `#Persian-Kings` - `#PostExilicPeriod` - `#RestorationOfJerusalem` ## Legacy: Artaxerxes ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Supporter of Jerusalem's Restoration:** Artaxerxes played a significant role in the restoration of Jerusalem and the Jewish people after the Babylonian exile. He authorized Ezra to return to Jerusalem and implement God’s law, which reinforced the religious and social structure of the Jewish community ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). - **Facilitator of Nehemiah’s Mission:** Artaxerxes’ decision to send Nehemiah to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls was pivotal in re-establishing the city as a center of Jewish life and worship ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). This action furthered God’s covenantal relationship with Israel by providing stability and a place for His name to dwell. ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Nehemiah's Recount:** Artaxerxes is mentioned in Nehemiah’s memoirs as a supportive figure, highlighting his role in the successful completion of Jerusalem’s wall and the subsequent reforms ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 5|Nehemiah Chapter 5]], [[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 13|Nehemiah Chapter 13]]). These mentions reinforce his legacy as a foreign king who facilitated God’s plans for His people. ### Spiritual Lessons - **God’s Sovereignty Over Nations:** Artaxerxes’ cooperation with God’s people demonstrates how God can use even secular rulers to accomplish His divine purposes, teaching believers that God’s sovereignty extends over all earthly powers ([[Proverbs/Proverbs Chapter 21|Proverbs Chapter 21]]). - **Providence and Provision:** His support of the Jewish leaders exemplifies God’s provision for His people through unexpected means, reminding believers of God’s care and faithfulness. ### Modern Applications - Artaxerxes’ legacy encourages modern believers to trust in God’s control over political and secular authorities, and to seek His guidance in all matters. - His role in biblical history is often cited in discussions about the relationship between church and state, and God’s ability to work through governmental systems. ### Tags - `#legacy` - `#impact-on-israel` - `#church-history` - `#spiritual-lessons` - `#sovereignty-of-god` - `#divine-provision` ## Geography: Artaxerxes ### Significant Locations - **Susa (Shushan):** The capital of the Persian Empire where Artaxerxes held his court. It is from here that he issued decrees concerning the Jewish people and their return to Jerusalem ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 1|Nehemiah Chapter 1]]). - **Jerusalem:** Artaxerxes played a key role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, granting Nehemiah permission to return and rebuild the city, which was an essential part of the restoration of the Jewish community ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Travel and Movement - **Nehemiah's Journey to Jerusalem:** Under Artaxerxes' rule, Nehemiah traveled from Susa to Jerusalem with the king's letters and support, demonstrating the king's influence and approval of this critical mission ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Susa’s Role:** As the seat of the Persian Empire, Susa was a place of authority and political power where decisions affecting vast territories, including Judah, were made ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 1|Nehemiah Chapter 1]]). - **Jerusalem’s Rebuilding:** The restoration of Jerusalem’s walls under Artaxerxes' reign is a symbol of God’s faithfulness to His people, enabling them to overcome opposition and reestablish their community and worship ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 6|Nehemiah Chapter 6]]). ### Tags - `#geography` - `#locations-susa` - `#locations-jerusalem` - `#artaxerxes` - `#persian-empire` - `#rebuilding` - `#nehemiah` ## Additional Resources: Artaxerxes ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **Artaxerxes' Decree:** The decree to Ezra allowing Jews to return and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]], [[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 8|Ezra Chapter 8]]). - **Support for Nehemiah:** Artaxerxes' permission for Nehemiah to return to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). - **Opposition:** Mention of opposition to the rebuilding project during Artaxerxes' reign ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 4|Ezra Chapter 4]]). ### Genealogical References - While Artaxerxes' genealogy is not detailed in the Bible, he is identified as a Persian king, relevant to the post-exilic period of Israel's history. ### Maps and Geographic References - **Persian Empire:** The vastness of the Persian Empire under Artaxerxes, including Susa (Shushan), where Nehemiah served as cupbearer ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 1|Nehemiah Chapter 1]]). - **Jerusalem:** The city that Ezra and Nehemiah were tasked with rebuilding under Artaxerxes' orders ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Artaxerxes and Ezra:** Exploration of the relationship and the decree ([[Ezra/Ezra Chapter 7|Ezra Chapter 7]]). - **Artaxerxes and Nehemiah:** Nehemiah’s request and Artaxerxes’ support ([[Nehemiah/Nehemiah Chapter 2|Nehemiah Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - `#additional-resources` - `#cross-references` - `#genealogy` - `#maps` - `#persian-empire` - `#rebuilding-Jerusalem` - `#decree`