This verse, found in 1 Esdras 8:11, is a part of a letter authorizing Ezra to return to Jerusalem with a group of Jewish exiles. Let's break down the meaning:
"As many therefore as have a mind thereto...": This phrase grants permission for any of the Jewish people in the Babylonian exile who desire or are willing to return to Jerusalem with Ezra. It emphasizes that the decision to go is voluntary. No one is being forced to leave.
"...let them depart with you...": This means those who choose to go are allowed to travel back to Jerusalem under Ezra's leadership and protection.
"...as it has seemed good both to me and my seven friends the counselors;": This indicates that the decree is not solely Ezra's idea, but has the approval and support of the Persian king (Artaxerxes in this context) and his advisors. "It has seemed good" is a common phrase in royal decrees to show legitimacy and authority. The "seven friends the counselors" were likely members of the king's inner circle, who held significant influence.
In essence, the verse is a statement of authorization and permission. The king and his advisors are officially allowing and even encouraging any Jewish exiles who want to return to Jerusalem with Ezra to do so. It highlights the voluntary nature of the return and underscores the legitimacy of Ezra's mission.
It's important to remember the historical context. The Jewish people were in exile in Babylon, and this permission to return and rebuild Jerusalem was a significant event in their history. The verse emphasizes the king's support for this endeavor.
This verse, found in 1 Esdras 8:11, is a part of a letter authorizing Ezra to return to Jerusalem with a group of Jewish exiles. Let's break down the meaning:
"As many therefore as have a mind thereto...": This phrase grants permission for any of the Jewish people in the Babylonian exile who desire or are willing to return to Jerusalem with Ezra. It emphasizes that the decision to go is voluntary. No one is being forced to leave.
"...let them depart with you...": This means those who choose to go are allowed to travel back to Jerusalem under Ezra's leadership and protection.
"...as it has seemed good both to me and my seven friends the counselors;": This indicates that the decree is not solely Ezra's idea, but has the approval and support of the Persian king (Artaxerxes in this context) and his advisors. "It has seemed good" is a common phrase in royal decrees to show legitimacy and authority. The "seven friends the counselors" were likely members of the king's inner circle, who held significant influence.
In essence, the verse is a statement of authorization and permission. The king and his advisors are officially allowing and even encouraging any Jewish exiles who want to return to Jerusalem with Ezra to do so. It highlights the voluntary nature of the return and underscores the legitimacy of Ezra's mission.
It's important to remember the historical context. The Jewish people were in exile in Babylon, and this permission to return and rebuild Jerusalem was a significant event in their history. The verse emphasizes the king's support for this endeavor.
