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עֶזְרָא (ez.ra)

ez.ra

Ezra

H5831 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 3 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name עֶזְרָא (Ezra) is a proper noun appearing only three times in the Hebrew Bible, specifically within the book that bears his name. It identifies a Levite priest and scribe who played a central role in the post-exilic restoration of Jerusalem. Lexical sources define the term as meaning "help," reflecting the supportive and restorative nature of his ministry among the returned exiles.

Ezra is described as the son of Seraiah and brother of Jehozadak, linking him to the priestly lineage that endured the Babylonian exile. His primary biblical appearance occurs in Ezra 7:1, where he is introduced as a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses. He worked alongside Nehemiah to implement religious reforms and reestablish the community's adherence to Scripture after their return from captivity.

Although the name appears sparingly in the Hebrew text, its significance lies in what it represents rather than frequency. The meaning "help" aligns with his historical function as a spiritual guide who helped the people realign with God’s commands. This concise lexical entry highlights how a single name can encapsulate a major figure’s identity and mission within the biblical narrative.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Ezra means "help." In a time when the Jewish people had returned from exile to rebuild their community, this name described his role as a spiritual guide. He was not just a leader but someone who supported the people in returning to God's instructions.

King Artaxerxes recognized this purpose. He gave Ezra authority to teach the laws of God to those who did not know them. This shows that true leadership involves helping others understand truth and live with wisdom.

We can look to Ezra as an example of faithful service. His life reminds us that God provides helpers to guide His people back to Him. May we also be instruments of help in our own communities, pointing others toward divine wisdom.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • to/ Ezra1×
  • O Ezra1×
  • Ezra1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • עֶזְרָ֨א1×
  • עֶזְרָ֗א1×
  • לְ/עֶזְרָ֣א1×

Key Verses

  • Ezra 7:12
    Artaxerxes, king of kings, To Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the perfect God of heaven. Now

    This verse establishes Ezra's dual identity as both a priest and a scribe, highlighting his authority to interpret God's law for the community.

  • Ezra 7:21
    I, even I, Artaxerxes the king, make a decree to all the treasurers who are beyond the River, that whatever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, requires of you, it shall be done with all diligence,

    The king's decree ensures that Ezra's requests are fulfilled with diligence, demonstrating how divine purpose can be advanced through earthly power.

  • Ezra 7:25
    You, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God that is in your hand, appoint magistrates and judges who may judge all the people who are beyond the River, who all know the laws of your God; and teach him who doesn’t know them.

    Ezra is tasked with appointing judges and teaching those who do not know the laws, showing his role in establishing justice and knowledge among the people.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Ezra mean?

The name Ezra comes from a Hebrew root meaning "help." It reflects his role as a spiritual guide who helped the returned exiles realign with God's commands.

Why is Ezra important in the Bible?

Ezra was a priest and scribe who played a central role in restoring religious life after the Babylonian exile. He taught the Law of Moses to the people and helped reestablish their covenant with God.

How did Ezra help the people?

He taught those who did not know the laws and appointed judges to administer justice. His work ensured that the community lived according to God's wisdom and statutes.

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)

Ezra 3 verses
Ezra 7:12

Artaxerxes, king of kings, To Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the perfect God of heaven. Now

Ezra 7:21

I, even I, Artaxerxes the king, make a decree to all the treasurers who are beyond the River, that whatever Ezra the…

Ezra 7:25

You, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God that is in your hand, appoint magistrates and judges who may judge all…