The verse "like as seems good to you, and to as many as do obey the Law of the Lord" from 1 Esdras 8:94 (which corresponds to Ezra 7:18 in the canonical Ezra) is part of a decree from King Artaxerxes to Ezra, a priest and scribe skilled in the Law of Moses. Let's break down its meaning:
"like as seems good to you": This gives Ezra significant discretionary power. He is authorized to act in accordance with his own judgment and wisdom. The King trusts Ezra's judgment and gives him the freedom to use the funds and resources provided as he sees fit.
"and to as many as do obey the Law of the Lord": This qualifies the previous statement. Ezra's actions must also align with and be pleasing to those who are faithful and obedient to God's law. It suggests a level of consultation or consideration for the religious community and their adherence to Jewish law. He cannot act unilaterally but should consider the will of those committed to the Law.
In essence, the verse means:
King Artaxerxes is granting Ezra the authority to use the provided resources according to his best judgment, provided that his decisions also align with the desires and principles of those who are faithfully observing and obeying the Law of the Lord. It's a balance between Ezra's personal discretion and the need to respect the religious sensibilities of the Jewish community.
The verse highlights the importance of both wise leadership and community consensus in religious matters. It also indicates the high regard King Artaxerxes had for Ezra and the Jewish faith.
The verse "like as seems good to you, and to as many as do obey the Law of the Lord" from 1 Esdras 8:94 (which corresponds to Ezra 7:18 in the canonical Ezra) is part of a decree from King Artaxerxes to Ezra, a priest and scribe skilled in the Law of Moses. Let's break down its meaning:
"like as seems good to you": This gives Ezra significant discretionary power. He is authorized to act in accordance with his own judgment and wisdom. The King trusts Ezra's judgment and gives him the freedom to use the funds and resources provided as he sees fit.
"and to as many as do obey the Law of the Lord": This qualifies the previous statement. Ezra's actions must also align with and be pleasing to those who are faithful and obedient to God's law. It suggests a level of consultation or consideration for the religious community and their adherence to Jewish law. He cannot act unilaterally but should consider the will of those committed to the Law.
In essence, the verse means:
King Artaxerxes is granting Ezra the authority to use the provided resources according to his best judgment, provided that his decisions also align with the desires and principles of those who are faithfully observing and obeying the Law of the Lord. It's a balance between Ezra's personal discretion and the need to respect the religious sensibilities of the Jewish community.
The verse highlights the importance of both wise leadership and community consensus in religious matters. It also indicates the high regard King Artaxerxes had for Ezra and the Jewish faith.
