Ezra 7:13 Meaning and Explanation
“I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and of his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The king decrees that any Israelite, priest, or Levite in his realm who freely wishes to go to Jerusalem may travel with Ezra.
What Does Ezra 7:13 Mean?
The royal decree begins. Artaxerxes grants permission for any of the people of Israel, including priests and Levites, who willingly desire to return to Jerusalem, to go up together with Ezra. The return is open to all who choose it.
Notice the king does not compel anyone; he releases those whose hearts are already willing. The freedom to go is itself a gift. So too the LORD honors a willing heart. He does not drag the reluctant to Himself but opens the way for those who long to draw near. Behind a pagan king's permission stands the God who stirs hearts to seek Him, and who welcomes all who freely turn toward His house.
Ezra 7:13 in the Original Language
freewill (nedab, נְדַב) -- to offer willingly, to volunteer freely; here a return prompted by glad, uncoerced desire.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ezra 7:13
What does Ezra 7:13 mean?
The king decrees that any Israelite, priest, or Levite in his realm who freely wishes to go to Jerusalem may travel with Ezra.