Ezra

109.Ezra Reads the Law to the People

Ezra Reads the Law l

Schnorr von Carolsfeld Bibel in Bildern 1860 125

Tomb of Ezra

Ezra is a figure in the Hebrew Bible and an important character in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. He is traditionally credited with leading a group of Jewish exiles from Babylon back to Jerusalem and playing a significant role in the re-establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem during the 5th century BCE. Ezra is also recognized for his contributions to the Jewish religion, notably in the compilation and editing of the Torah, making him a central figure in Jewish religious and cultural life.

Biography

Ezra, a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, is described in the Book of Ezra in the Hebrew Bible. His lineage is traced back to Aaron, the brother of Moses, making him a priest as well as a scribe. The historical context of Ezra's mission is tied to the decree of Cyrus the Great of Persia, allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple.

Upon his arrival in Jerusalem, Ezra found that many of the Jewish exiles who had returned earlier had intermarried with local populations, which was against the teachings of the Torah. He initiated a movement of religious reform, urging the people to adhere to the Jewish laws and traditions. Ezra's dedication to the Law and his efforts to purify the Jewish community are seen as foundational in re-establishing Jewish identity post-exile.

Ezra's Contributions to Judaism

Ezra's most notable contribution is his role in the establishment of the Torah as the central text of Jewish life and law. He is traditionally credited with compiling, editing, and canonizing the Torah, although modern scholars debate the extent of his involvement in these processes. Nonetheless, his efforts in promoting the Torah and ensuring its central place in Jewish worship and practice have had a lasting impact on Judaism.

Ezra is also credited with instituting the Great Assembly (Anshei Knesset HaGedolah), a body of scribes, priests, and prophets responsible for leading the Jewish community and laying the groundwork for later Jewish leadership structures, including the Sanhedrin.

Legacy

Ezra's legacy is multifaceted. In Judaism, he is revered as a second Moses, a restorer of the Law that had been forgotten or neglected during the Babylonian exile. His story is celebrated annually on the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, which marks the conclusion and restarting of the annual Torah reading cycle.

In Christianity, Ezra is recognized as a prophet and a historical figure who helped restore the Jewish faith and practices, which are seen as foundational for Christian history. In Islam, Uzair (Ezra) is mentioned in the Quran as a figure of respect, though his story and significance are interpreted differently than in Jewish and Christian traditions.

In Popular Culture

Ezra's influence extends beyond religious texts into various aspects of culture and literature, where he is often depicted as a symbol of faith, law, and renewal.

See Also

• Book of Nehemiah
• Second Temple
• Jewish diaspora
• History of Judaism