Ezra 4:19 Meaning and Explanation
“And I commanded, and search hath been made, and it is found that this city of old time hath made insurrection against kings, and that rebellion and sedition have been made therein.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The king reports that, on his order, the archives were searched and confirm Jerusalem's history of revolt.
What Does Ezra 4:19 Mean?
Acting on the accusers' suggestion, the king commands a search of the records, and the archives appear to confirm that Jerusalem had risen against kings of old, with rebellion and sedition within it. The king takes the partial truth at face value, reading the city's past resistance as proof of present danger. The search the enemies requested has gone in their favor.
History can be true in its facts and yet false in its conclusions. Jerusalem had indeed defied foreign powers, often in fidelity to God, yet here that record is made to justify shutting down a God-given work. The faithful are sometimes condemned by the very evidence of their faithfulness. Still, the God who reads the same history knows the heart of His people, and His judgment, unlike the king's, is never misled by a one-sided file.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra 4:19
What does Ezra 4:19 mean?
The king reports that, on his order, the archives were searched and confirm Jerusalem's history of revolt.