Ezra 4:15
Ezra 4:15 in Multiple Translations
that a search should be made of the record books of your fathers. In these books you will discover and verify that the city is a rebellious city, harmful to kings and provinces, inciting sedition from ancient times. That is why this city was destroyed.
That search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so shalt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful unto kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time: for which cause was this city destroyed.
that search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so shalt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful unto kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time; for which cause was this city laid waste.
So that search may be made in the book of the records of your fathers: and you will see in the book of the records that this town has been uncontrolled, and a cause of trouble to kings and countries, and that there were outbursts against authority there in the past: for which reason the town was made waste.
and order a search of the royal archives. You will discover in these records that this is a rebellious city, damaging to kings and countries, having often risen up in revolt in the past. That is what led to this city being destroyed.
That one may searche in the booke of the Chronicles of thy fathers, and thou shalt finde in the booke of the Chronicles, and perceiue that this citie is rebellious and noysome vnto Kings and prouinces, and that they haue moued sedition of olde time, for the which cause this citie was destroyed.
so that he doth seek in the book of the records of thy fathers, and thou dost find in the book of the records, and dost know, that this city [is] a rebellious city, and causing loss [to] kings and provinces, and makers of sedition [are] in its midst from the days of old, therefore hath this city been wasted.
that search may be made in the book of the records of your fathers. You will see in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful to kings and provinces, and that they have started rebellions within it in the past. That is why this city was destroyed.
That search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so wilt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful to kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time: for which cause was this city destroyed.
That search may be made in the books of the histories of thy fathers, and thou shalt find written in the records: and shalt know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful to the kings and provinces, and that wars were raised therein of old time: for which cause also the city was destroyed.
And, we suggest that you order/tell your officials to search the records that your ancestors made/wrote. If you do that, you will find out that the people in this city have always rebelled against the government. You will also find out that from long ago these people have caused trouble for kings and for rulers of provinces. They have always revolted against those who ruled them. That is the reason that this city was destroyed by the Babylonian army.
Berean Amplified Bible — Ezra 4:15
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Ezra 4:15 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
דִּ֡י
יְבַקַּר֩
בִּֽ/סְפַר
דָּכְרָ֨נַיָּ֜/א
דִּ֣י
אֲבָהָתָ֗/ךְ
וּ֠/תְהַשְׁכַּח
בִּ/סְפַ֣ר
דָּכְרָנַיָּ/א֮
וְ/תִנְדַּע֒
דִּי֩
קִרְיְתָ֨/א
דָ֜ךְ
קִרְיָ֣א
מָֽרָדָ֗א
וּֽ/מְהַנְזְקַ֤ת
מַלְכִין֙
וּ/מְדִנָ֔ן
וְ/אֶשְׁתַּדּוּר֙
עָבְדִ֣ין
בְּ/גַוַּ֔/הּ
מִן
יוֹמָ֖ת
עָלְמָ֑/א
עַ֨ל
דְּנָ֔ה
קִרְיְתָ֥/א
דָ֖ךְ
הָֽחָרְבַֽת
דִּ֡י
dîy
H1768
that
Adj
יְבַקַּר֩
bᵉqar
H1240
to enquire
Adj
בִּֽ/סְפַר
çᵉphar
H5609
scroll
Adj | N-ms
דָּכְרָ֨נַיָּ֜/א
dikrôwn
H1799
record
Adj | Art
דִּ֣י
dîy
H1768
that
Adj
אֲבָהָתָ֗/ךְ
ʼab
H2
father
Adj | Suff
וּ֠/תְהַשְׁכַּח
shᵉkach
H7912
to find
Adj | V-Hiphil-Imperf-2ms
בִּ/סְפַ֣ר
çᵉphar
H5609
scroll
Adj | N-ms
דָּכְרָנַיָּ/א֮
dikrôwn
H1799
record
Adj | Art
וְ/תִנְדַּע֒
yᵉdaʻ
H3046
to know
Adj | V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
דִּי֩
dîy
H1768
that
Adj
קִרְיְתָ֨/א
qiryâʼ
H7149
town
Adj | Art
דָ֜ךְ
dêk
H1791
this
Adj
קִרְיָ֣א
qiryâʼ
H7149
town
Adj
מָֽרָדָ֗א
mârâd
H4779
rebellious
Adj
וּֽ/מְהַנְזְקַ֤ת
nᵉzaq
H5142
to suffer injury
Adj | V-Hiphil
מַלְכִין֙
melek
H4430
king
Adj
וּ/מְדִנָ֔ן
mᵉdîynâh
H4083
province
Adj | N-fp
וְ/אֶשְׁתַּדּוּר֙
ʼeshtaddûwr
H849
sedition
Adj | N-ms
עָבְדִ֣ין
ʻăbad
H5648
to make
Adj
בְּ/גַוַּ֔/הּ
gav
H1459
midst
Adj | N-ms | Suff
מִן
min
H4481
from
Adj
יוֹמָ֖ת
yôwm
H3118
day
Adj
עָלְמָ֑/א
ʻâlam
H5957
perpetuity
Adj | Art
עַ֨ל
ʻal
H5922
since
Adj
דְּנָ֔ה
dên
H1836
this
Adj
קִרְיְתָ֥/א
qiryâʼ
H7149
town
Adj | Art
דָ֖ךְ
dêk
H1791
this
Adj
הָֽחָרְבַֽת
chărab
H2718
be wasted
Adj
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Ezra 4:15
דִּ֡י
dîy
H1768
"that"
Adj
This word is used as a relative conjunction, like 'that' or 'which', to connect ideas in sentences. It appears in Genesis and Exodus to describe relationships between people and things. The KJV translates it as 'that' or 'which'.
Definition: part of relation 1) who, which, that mark of genitive 2) that of, which belongs to, that conj 3) that, because
Usage: Occurs in 186 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] as, but, for(-asmuch [phrase]), [phrase] now, of, seeing, than, that, therefore, until, [phrase] what (-soever), when, which, whom, whose. See also: Ezra 4:9; Daniel 3:7; Jeremiah 10:11.
יְבַקַּר֩
bᵉqar
H1240
"to enquire"
Adj
To carefully search or examine, like a farmer plowing a field, as in seeking truth or understanding, as seen in Jeremiah 29:13.
Definition: 1) to seek, enquire 1a) (Pael) to enquire 1b) (Ithpael) to let search be made
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: inquire, make search. See also: Ezra 4:15; Ezra 5:17; Ezra 7:14.
בִּֽ/סְפַר
çᵉphar
H5609
"scroll"
Adj | N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a scroll or book, like the ones used by prophets to write God's messages. It appears in books like Jeremiah and Ezekiel. The word refers to a written document.
Definition: scroll, book Aramaic of se.pher (סֵ֫פֶר ": document" H5612A)
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: book, roll. See also: Ezra 4:15; Ezra 6:18; Daniel 7:10.
דָּכְרָ֨נַיָּ֜/א
dikrôwn
H1799
"record"
Adj | Art
This word refers to a written record or memorandum, used to keep track of important events or transactions. In the book of Ezra, it describes the official records of the Persian Empire. It is also used in Esther to describe the royal decrees.
Definition: record, memorandum Aramaic of zikh.ron (זִכָּרוֹן "memorial" H2146)
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: record. See also: Ezra 4:15; Ezra 6:2.
דִּ֣י
dîy
H1768
"that"
Adj
This word is used as a relative conjunction, like 'that' or 'which', to connect ideas in sentences. It appears in Genesis and Exodus to describe relationships between people and things. The KJV translates it as 'that' or 'which'.
Definition: part of relation 1) who, which, that mark of genitive 2) that of, which belongs to, that conj 3) that, because
Usage: Occurs in 186 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] as, but, for(-asmuch [phrase]), [phrase] now, of, seeing, than, that, therefore, until, [phrase] what (-soever), when, which, whom, whose. See also: Ezra 4:9; Daniel 3:7; Jeremiah 10:11.
אֲבָהָתָ֗/ךְ
ʼab
H2
"father"
Adj | Suff
The word ab means father, and is used throughout the Bible to refer to paternal relationships, such as God as the father of humanity, or Abraham as the father of the Jewish people.
Definition: father Aramaic of av (אָב "father" H0001)
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: father. See also: Ezra 4:15; Daniel 5:2; Daniel 5:18.
וּ֠/תְהַשְׁכַּח
shᵉkach
H7912
"to find"
Adj | V-Hiphil-Imperf-2ms
This word means to find or discover something, either literally or figuratively. It's used in the Bible to describe finding things, like wisdom or God's favor. The KJV translates it simply as 'find'.
Definition: 1) to find 1a) (Aphel) to find 1b) (Ithp'al) to be found
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: find. See also: Ezra 4:15; Daniel 5:12; Daniel 6:24.
בִּ/סְפַ֣ר
çᵉphar
H5609
"scroll"
Adj | N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a scroll or book, like the ones used by prophets to write God's messages. It appears in books like Jeremiah and Ezekiel. The word refers to a written document.
Definition: scroll, book Aramaic of se.pher (סֵ֫פֶר ": document" H5612A)
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: book, roll. See also: Ezra 4:15; Ezra 6:18; Daniel 7:10.
דָּכְרָנַיָּ/א֮
dikrôwn
H1799
"record"
Adj | Art
This word refers to a written record or memorandum, used to keep track of important events or transactions. In the book of Ezra, it describes the official records of the Persian Empire. It is also used in Esther to describe the royal decrees.
Definition: record, memorandum Aramaic of zikh.ron (זִכָּרוֹן "memorial" H2146)
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: record. See also: Ezra 4:15; Ezra 6:2.
וְ/תִנְדַּע֒
yᵉdaʻ
H3046
"to know"
Adj | V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
To know in Hebrew can also mean to let someone know or communicate, and is used in different forms, such as to certify, inform, or teach, in the Bible.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (P'al) to know 1b) (Aphel) to let someone know, communicate, inform, cause to know
Usage: Occurs in 42 OT verses. KJV: certify, know, make known, teach. See also: Ezra 4:12; Daniel 2:30; Daniel 7:16.
דִּי֩
dîy
H1768
"that"
Adj
This word is used as a relative conjunction, like 'that' or 'which', to connect ideas in sentences. It appears in Genesis and Exodus to describe relationships between people and things. The KJV translates it as 'that' or 'which'.
Definition: part of relation 1) who, which, that mark of genitive 2) that of, which belongs to, that conj 3) that, because
Usage: Occurs in 186 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] as, but, for(-asmuch [phrase]), [phrase] now, of, seeing, than, that, therefore, until, [phrase] what (-soever), when, which, whom, whose. See also: Ezra 4:9; Daniel 3:7; Jeremiah 10:11.
קִרְיְתָ֨/א
qiryâʼ
H7149
"town"
Adj | Art
This word refers to a town or city, like a place where people live. It is used in the Bible to describe urban areas.
Definition: city Aramaic of qir.yah (קִרְיָה "town" H7151)
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: city. See also: Ezra 4:10; Ezra 4:15; Ezra 4:21.
דָ֜ךְ
dêk
H1791
"this"
Adj
This Hebrew word simply means 'this', used to point out a specific thing or person, similar to the Aramaic word 'zeh'.
Definition: this Aramaic of zeh (זֶה "this" H2088)
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: the same, this. See also: Ezra 4:13; Ezra 5:8; Ezra 6:12.
קִרְיָ֣א
qiryâʼ
H7149
"town"
Adj
This word refers to a town or city, like a place where people live. It is used in the Bible to describe urban areas.
Definition: city Aramaic of qir.yah (קִרְיָה "town" H7151)
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: city. See also: Ezra 4:10; Ezra 4:15; Ezra 4:21.
מָֽרָדָ֗א
mârâd
H4779
"rebellious"
Adj
The Hebrew word marad means rebellious, describing someone who resists or defies authority. This term is used to characterize individuals or groups in the Bible.
Definition: rebellious
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: rebellious. See also: Ezra 4:12; Ezra 4:15.
וּֽ/מְהַנְזְקַ֤ת
nᵉzaq
H5142
"to suffer injury"
Adj | V-Hiphil
To suffer injury or loss, this word describes the experience of being hurt or damaged. In Exodus 21:22, it is used to describe the punishment for causing harm to someone. The word is also used in Proverbs 22:23 to warn against oppressing the poor.
Definition: 1) to suffer injury 1a) (P'al) to suffer injury 1b) (Aphel) to injure
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: have (en-) damage, hurt(-ful). See also: Ezra 4:13; Ezra 4:22; Daniel 6:3.
מַלְכִין֙
melek
H4430
"king"
Adj
Melek means king, referring to a ruler or monarch, used in the Bible to describe kings like David and Solomon. It is translated as king or royal in the KJV.
Definition: king Aramaic of me.lekh (מֶ֫לֶךְ "king" H4428) § 1) king
Usage: Occurs in 131 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Ezra 4:8; Daniel 3:1; Daniel 7:24.
וּ/מְדִנָ֔ן
mᵉdîynâh
H4083
"province"
Adj | N-fp
In the Bible, a province refers to a region or district under a judge's authority. It appears in books like Daniel and Ezra, describing areas within ancient empires. The term is often translated as 'province' in the KJV.
Definition: district, province Aramaic of me.di.nah (מְדִינָה "province" H4082)
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: province. See also: Ezra 4:15; Daniel 2:49; Daniel 3:30.
וְ/אֶשְׁתַּדּוּר֙
ʼeshtaddûwr
H849
"sedition"
Adj | N-ms
This Hebrew word means rebellion or sedition, referring to a revolt against authority. It is used in the Bible to describe opposition to God or human leaders. In the KJV, it is translated as sedition.
Definition: revolt, sedition
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: sedition. See also: Ezra 4:15; Ezra 4:19.
עָבְדִ֣ין
ʻăbad
H5648
"to make"
Adj
This word means to make or do something, and can also imply preparing or keeping something, as seen in the creation story in Genesis. It is a versatile verb that can be used in different ways, including creating, performing, or executing something. The word is found in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to make, do 1a)(P'al) 1a1) to make, create 1a2) to do, perform 1b) (Ithp'al) 1b1) to be made into 1b2) to be done, be wrought, be performed, be executed, be carried out
Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] cut, do, execute, go on, make, move, work. See also: Ezra 4:15; Ezra 7:26; Jeremiah 10:11.
בְּ/גַוַּ֔/הּ
gav
H1459
"midst"
Adj | N-ms | Suff
This word means the middle or midst of something, like the center of a room or a group of people. It is used in the Bible to describe a location or position. The KJV translates it as midst or same.
Definition: midst, the midst Aramaic of gev (גֵּו "midst" H1460B)
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: midst, same, there-(where-) in. See also: Ezra 4:15; Daniel 3:21; Daniel 7:15.
מִן
min
H4481
"from"
Adj
This word is used to show where something comes from, like from a place or at a certain time, and is often translated as from or out of.
Definition: 1) from, out of, by, by reason of, at, more than 1a) from, out of (of place) 1b) from, by, as a result of, by reason of, at, according to, (of source) 1c) from (of time) 1d) beyond, more than (in comparisons)
Usage: Occurs in 83 OT verses. KJV: according, after, [phrase] because, [phrase] before, by, for, from, [idiom] him, [idiom] more than, (out) of, part, since, [idiom] these, to, upon, [phrase] when. See also: Ezra 4:12; Daniel 3:22; Jeremiah 10:11.
יוֹמָ֖ת
yôwm
H3118
"day"
Adj
The word 'yom' is used in the Bible to refer to a 24-hour period, and when modified by a number, it always refers to a specific day. For example, 'three days' or 'forty days' would be translated using the word 'yom'. This word is an important part of the Bible's system of timekeeping.
Definition: 1) day 2) day always refers to a twenty-four hour period when the word is modified by a definite or cardinal number
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: day (by day), time. See also: Ezra 4:15; Daniel 5:11; Daniel 7:22.
עָלְמָ֑/א
ʻâlam
H5957
"perpetuity"
Adj | Art
This word refers to a very long time, often forever or eternity. It is used to describe something that has been true for a long time or will be true forever. It appears in the Bible to describe God's eternal nature.
Definition: perpetuity, antiquity, for ever Aramaic of o.lam (עוֹלָם ": old" H5769J)
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: for (n-)ever (lasting), old. See also: Ezra 4:15; Daniel 4:31; Daniel 7:27.
עַ֨ל
ʻal
H5922
"since"
Adj
Similar to H5921, this word means on, above, or because of something. It is often used to describe a reason or a direction, like in Genesis 18:5 where Abraham is asked to walk before God.
Definition: 1) upon, over, on account of, above, to, against 1a) upon, over, on account of, regarding, concerning, on behalf of 1b) over (with verbs of ruling) 1c) above, beyond (in comparison) 1d) to, against (of direction)
Usage: Occurs in 86 OT verses. KJV: about, against, concerning, for, (there-) fore, from, in, [idiom] more, of, (there-, up-) on, (in-) to, [phrase] why with. See also: Ezra 4:8; Daniel 4:2; Daniel 7:28.
דְּנָ֔ה
dên
H1836
"this"
Adj
This Hebrew word means 'this' or 'therefore' and is used to point to something specific. It is often used in the Bible to connect ideas or explain a reason.
Definition: demons pron 1) this, on account of this adv 2) therefore
Usage: Occurs in 53 OT verses. KJV: (afore-) time, [phrase] after this manner, here (-after), one...another, such, there(-fore), these, this (matter), [phrase] thus, where(-fore), which. See also: Ezra 4:11; Daniel 2:29; Jeremiah 10:11.
קִרְיְתָ֥/א
qiryâʼ
H7149
"town"
Adj | Art
This word refers to a town or city, like a place where people live. It is used in the Bible to describe urban areas.
Definition: city Aramaic of qir.yah (קִרְיָה "town" H7151)
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: city. See also: Ezra 4:10; Ezra 4:15; Ezra 4:21.
דָ֖ךְ
dêk
H1791
"this"
Adj
This Hebrew word simply means 'this', used to point out a specific thing or person, similar to the Aramaic word 'zeh'.
Definition: this Aramaic of zeh (זֶה "this" H2088)
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: the same, this. See also: Ezra 4:13; Ezra 5:8; Ezra 6:12.
הָֽחָרְבַֽת
chărab
H2718
"be wasted"
Adj
To be wasted or demolished is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which can describe something being dried up or destroyed. It is translated as 'destroy' in some Bible versions.
Definition: 1) to dry up, be waste 1a) (Hophal) to be laid waste
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: destroy. See also: Ezra 4:15.
Study Notes — Ezra 4:15
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Ezra 4:15 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Ezra 4:15
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezra 4:15
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
- Trapp's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
- Ellicott's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
- Cambridge Bible on Ezra 4:15
- Barnes' Notes on Ezra 4:15
- Whedon's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
- Sermons on Ezra 4:15
Context — Opposition under Xerxes and Artaxerxes
13Let it now be known to the king that if that city is rebuilt and its walls are restored, they will not pay tribute, duty, or toll, and the royal treasury will suffer.
14Now because we are in the service of the palace and it is not fitting for us to allow the king to be dishonored, we have sent to inform the king
15that a search should be made of the record books of your fathers. In these books you will discover and verify that the city is a rebellious city, harmful to kings and provinces, inciting sedition from ancient times. That is why this city was destroyed.
16We advise the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are restored, you will have no dominion west of the Euphrates. 17Then the king sent this reply: To Rehum the commander, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of your associates living in Samaria and elsewhere in the region west of the Euphrates: Greetings.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ezra 4:12 | Let it be known to the king that the Jews who came from you to us have returned to Jerusalem. And they are rebuilding that rebellious and wicked city, restoring its walls, and repairing its foundations. |
| 2 | Esther 3:5–8 | When Haman saw that Mordecai would not bow down or pay him homage, he was filled with rage. And when he learned the identity of Mordecai’s people, he scorned the notion of laying hands on Mordecai alone. Instead, he sought to destroy all of Mordecai’s people, the Jews, throughout the kingdom of Xerxes. In the twelfth year of King Xerxes, in the first month, the month of Nisan, the Pur (that is, the lot) was cast before Haman to determine a day and month. And the lot fell on the twelfth month, the month of Adar. Then Haman informed King Xerxes, “There is a certain people scattered and dispersed among the peoples of every province of your kingdom. Their laws are different from everyone else’s, and they do not obey the king’s laws. So it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them. |
| 3 | 2 Kings 24:20–1 | — |
| 4 | Jeremiah 52:3–34 | For because of the anger of the LORD, all this happened in Jerusalem and Judah, until He finally banished them from His presence. And Zedekiah also rebelled against the king of Babylon. So in the ninth year of Zedekiah’s reign, on the tenth day of the tenth month, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon marched against Jerusalem with his entire army. They encamped outside the city and built a siege wall all around it. And the city was kept under siege until King Zedekiah’s eleventh year. By the ninth day of the fourth month, the famine in the city was so severe that the people of the land had no food. Then the city was breached; and though the Chaldeans had surrounded the city, all the men of war fled the city by night by way of the gate between the two walls near the king’s garden. They headed toward the Arabah, but the army of the Chaldeans pursued the king and overtook Zedekiah in the plains of Jericho, and all his army was separated from him. The Chaldeans seized the king and brought him up to the king of Babylon at Riblah in the land of Hamath, where he pronounced judgment on Zedekiah. There at Riblah the king of Babylon slaughtered the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and he also killed all the officials of Judah. Then he put out Zedekiah’s eyes, bound him with bronze shackles, and took him to Babylon, where he kept him in custody until his dying day. On the tenth day of the fifth month, in the nineteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar’s reign over Babylon, Nebuzaradan captain of the guard, a servant of the king of Babylon, entered Jerusalem. He burned down the house of the LORD, the royal palace, and all the houses of Jerusalem—every significant building. And the whole army of the Chaldeans under the captain of the guard broke down all the walls around Jerusalem. Then Nebuzaradan captain of the guard carried into exile some of the poorest people and those who remained in the city, along with the deserters who had defected to the king of Babylon and the rest of the craftsmen. But Nebuzaradan captain of the guard left behind some of the poorest of the land to tend the vineyards and fields. Moreover, the Chaldeans broke up the bronze pillars and stands and the bronze Sea in the house of the LORD, and they carried all the bronze to Babylon. They also took away the pots, shovels, wick trimmers, sprinkling bowls, dishes, and all the articles of bronze used in the temple service. The captain of the guard also took away the basins, censers, sprinkling bowls, pots, lampstands, pans, and drink offering bowls—anything made of pure gold or fine silver. As for the two pillars, the Sea, the twelve bronze bulls under it, and the movable stands that King Solomon had made for the house of the LORD, the weight of the bronze from all these articles was beyond measure. Each pillar was eighteen cubits tall and twelve cubits in circumference; each was hollow, four fingers thick. The bronze capital atop one pillar was five cubits high, with a network of bronze pomegranates all around. The second pillar, with its pomegranates, was similar. Each capital had ninety-six pomegranates on the sides, and a total of a hundred pomegranates were above the surrounding network. The captain of the guard also took away Seraiah the chief priest, Zephaniah the priest of second rank, and the three doorkeepers. Of those still in the city, he took a court official who had been appointed over the men of war, as well as seven trusted royal advisers. He also took the scribe of the captain of the army, who had enlisted the people of the land, and sixty men who were found in the city. Nebuzaradan captain of the guard took them and brought them to the king of Babylon at Riblah. There at Riblah in the land of Hamath, the king of Babylon struck them down and put them to death. So Judah was taken into exile, away from its own land. These are the people Nebuchadnezzar carried away: in the seventh year, 3,023 Jews; in Nebuchadnezzar’s eighteenth year, 832 people from Jerusalem; in Nebuchadnezzar’s twenty-third year, Nebuzaradan captain of the guard carried away 745 Jews. So in all, 4,600 people were taken away. On the twenty-fifth day of the twelfth month of the thirty-seventh year of the exile of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the first year of the reign of Evil-merodach king of Babylon, he pardoned Jehoiachin king of Judah and released him from prison. And he spoke kindly to Jehoiachin and set his throne above the thrones of the other kings who were with him in Babylon. So Jehoiachin changed out of his prison clothes, and he dined regularly at the king’s table for the rest of his life. And the king of Babylon provided Jehoiachin a daily portion for the rest of his life, until the day of his death. |
| 5 | Nehemiah 6:6 | that read: “It is reported among the nations—and Geshem agrees—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and this is why you are building the wall. According to these reports, you are to become their king, |
| 6 | Daniel 6:4–13 | Thus the administrators and satraps sought a charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom, but they could find no charge or corruption, because he was trustworthy, and no negligence or corruption was found in him. Finally these men said, “We will never find any charge against this Daniel, unless we find something against him concerning the law of his God.” So the administrators and satraps went together to the king and said, “O King Darius, may you live forever! All the royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers, and governors have agreed that the king should establish an ordinance and enforce a decree that for thirty days anyone who petitions any god or man except you, O king, will be thrown into the den of lions. Therefore, O king, establish the decree and sign the document so that it cannot be changed—in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.” Therefore King Darius signed the written decree. Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before. Then these men went as a group and found Daniel petitioning and imploring his God. So they approached the king and asked about his royal decree: “Did you not sign a decree that for thirty days any man who petitions any god or man except you, O king, will be thrown into the den of lions?” The king replied, “According to the law of the Medes and Persians the order stands, and it cannot be repealed.” Then they told the king, “Daniel, one of the exiles from Judah, shows no regard for you, O king, or for the decree that you have signed. He still makes his petition three times a day.” |
| 7 | Acts 17:6–7 | But when they could not find them, they dragged Jason and some other brothers before the city officials, shouting, “These men who have turned the world upside down have now come here, and Jason has welcomed them into his home. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, named Jesus!” |
| 8 | Nehemiah 2:19 | But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about this, they mocked us and ridiculed us, saying, “What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” |
| 9 | 2 Kings 25:4 | Then the city was breached; and though the Chaldeans had surrounded the city, all the men of war fled by night by way of the gate between the two walls near the king’s garden. They headed toward the Arabah, |
Ezra 4:15 Summary
This verse is talking about a search of old records to prove that a certain city has a history of rebelling against authority, as seen in Ezra 4:15. The city was destroyed in the past because of its rebelliousness, which is a reminder that our actions have consequences, as seen in Galatians 6:7-8. We can learn from this verse by being mindful of our own attitudes and actions towards authority, and by seeking to obey God and follow His guidance, as encouraged in Romans 13:1-7. By doing so, we can avoid the kinds of problems that this city faced and instead live in harmony with God and with others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of searching the record books of the fathers in Ezra 4:15?
Searching the record books of the fathers in Ezra 4:15 is a way to verify the history of the city and its rebellious nature, which is similar to how the Bible encourages us to learn from the past and remember the deeds of our ancestors, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:7 and Psalm 78:4.
Why is the city described as rebellious and harmful to kings and provinces?
The city is described as rebellious and harmful to kings and provinces because of its history of sedition and disobedience, as mentioned in Ezra 4:15, which is reminiscent of the warnings given in Proverbs 24:21-22 about the dangers of rebelling against authority.
How does this verse relate to the overall narrative of the book of Ezra?
This verse is part of the opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem, as seen in Ezra 4:1-24, and it highlights the ongoing struggle between those who want to rebuild the city and those who oppose it, which is a common theme throughout the book of Ezra, as seen in Ezra 5:1-17 and Ezra 6:1-18.
What can we learn from the fact that the city was destroyed in the past?
The fact that the city was destroyed in the past, as mentioned in Ezra 4:15, serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion, as seen in Isaiah 1:7 and Jeremiah 25:11, and it encourages us to learn from the past and seek God's guidance and wisdom.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can learn from the past and apply its lessons to my life today?
- How can I balance the need to remember and learn from history with the danger of getting stuck in the past?
- What are some areas in my life where I may be rebelling against God's authority, and how can I surrender to Him?
- How can I use my knowledge of history and the Bible to inform my decisions and guide my actions in the present?
Gill's Exposition on Ezra 4:15
That search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers,.... That is, his predecessors in the Babylonian monarchy; though, as the Medes and Persians were included in that, and joined the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezra 4:15
That search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so shalt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful unto kings and provinces,
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
The records of thy fathers; political fathers, i.e. thy predecessors, the former emperors of this empire, namely, in the Assyrian and Babylonish records, which together with the empire were now in the hands of the Persian kings, to be searched or read as the king’ s pleasure was, or as the affairs of the empire required.
Trapp's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
Ezra 4:15 That search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so shalt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city [is] a rebellious city, and hurtful unto kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time: for which cause was this city destroyed.Ver. 15. In the book of the records] Chaldee, of the remembrances, that is, the chronicles usual in all kingdoms. And know that this city is a rebellious city] Learn, that fidelity to governors is ever both safe and honourable. Zedekiah’ s falsifying his oath to the king of Babylon, was the overthrow of that commonwealth. See what God himself saith, not without great indignation, Ezekiel 17:18, "Seeing he" (Zedekiah) "despised the oath by breaking the covenant, when, lo, he had given his hand, and hath done all these things, he shall not escape."
Ellicott's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
(15) The book of the records of thy fathers.—“The book of the records of the Chronicles” which in Esther 6:1 is “read before the king.” This extended beyond his own fathers back to the times of the predecessors of the Median dynasty. Of old time.—From the days of eternity, or time immemorial. The spirit of exaggeration if not of falsehood appears in every word here.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
Verse 15. The book of the records of thy fathers] That is, the records of the Chaldeans, to whom the Persians succeeded.
Cambridge Bible on Ezra 4:15
15. that search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers] Literally, that one may search, i.e. the officials in whose keeping the records were. Perhaps the plural should be read, as in Ezra 4:19. For this appeal to ‘the book of records’, compare chap. Ezra 6:1-2, and the allusions in the book of Esther to the existence of such an official register recording facts and events of State importance, Esther 2:23; Esther 6:1; Esther 10:2. Rawlinson refers to Diodorus Siculus (II. 32) who speaks of ‘the royal parchments in which the Persians in accordance with some law preserved the record of the deeds of former time’ (ἐκτῶνβασιλικῶνδιφθερῶν, ἐναἷςοἱΠέρσαιτὰςπαλαιὰςπράξειςκατάτινανόμονεἶχονσυντεταγμένας). thy fathers] This expression might be adduced to prove that the Artaxerxes addressed could not be Pseudo-Smerdis. But it would be unfair to lay stress upon it. The context shows that the king’s predecessors in the rule of Western Asia are intended, Assyrian and Babylonian no less than Median and Persian. hurtful] i.e. as a nucleus of revolt. kings and provinces] i.e. to subject kings as well as to the great king. ‘Provinces’ (cf. the use of the word, Ezra 2:1) applied to the large districts into which the Empire was divided. See Daniel 2:48; Daniel 3:2; Esther 1:22; Esther 3:8, &c. They are described as 127 in number in Esther 1:1; Esther 8:9. they have moved sedition within the same] i.e. the Jews within the city of Jerusalem; cf. 19. … of old time: for which cause, &c.] An expression better suited to writers in the days of Artaxerxes than in the reign of Pseudo-Smerdis, only 65 years from the date of the destruction of Jerusalem (586 b.c.). destroyed] R.V. laid waste.
Barnes' Notes on Ezra 4:15
The book of the records - Compare Esther 2:23; Esther 6:1; Esther 10:2. The existence of such a “book” at the Persian court is attested also by Ctesias. Of thy fathers - i.
Whedon's Commentary on Ezra 4:15
15. Book of the records — Public and official annals of the kingdom, and of the acts of its kings, prepared by the scribes and recorders, and deposited for reference and use among the archives of the nation.
Sermons on Ezra 4:15
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Six Paces and a Shout of Glory by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the divine order in our lives. He encourages believers to find contentment and joy in the plac |
|
From Babylon to Jerusalem - (Daniel) ch.6:1-28 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the character of Daniel and his faithfulness in his work. Daniel was a Christian who stood out among his colleagues by being punctual, dilige |
|
Daniels More Excellent Spirit (Zulu/english) by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Daniel and how he remained faithful to God despite facing opposition and pressure from others. The preacher emphasizes the impor |
|
Faithfulness by A.W. Pink | A.W. Pink emphasizes the critical importance of faithfulness in ministry, asserting that it is a non-negotiable requirement for those appointed as stewards of God's Word. He highli |
|
Delight in the Will of God by John A. Broadus | John A. Broadus preaches on the importance of delighting in doing God's will, emphasizing the grateful response and obedience that should follow experiencing God's gracious relief |
|
Life Changing Message!!@! - His and His Alone by K.P. Yohannan | This sermon emphasizes the radical commitment to following Jesus, illustrated through personal stories of persecution, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. It highlights the importance |
|
"Embarrassment to a Holy God" by Leonard Ravenhill | This sermon challenges the modern Church to reflect on the early Christians who, despite lacking grand resources or platforms, were able to turn the world upside down with their fa |