Ezra 4:9 — English NIRV 1996 - Copyrighted only for Website
We, Rehum and Shimshai, are writing this letter. Rehum is the commanding officer. Shimshai is the secretary. Our friends join us in writing. They include the judges and officials who are in charge of the people from Tripolis, Persia, Erech and Babylon. They are also over the Elamites from Susa.
What Does This Mean?
This verse lists the names of people who wrote a letter to the king. They are from various places and are concerned about something happening in their area. The key message is about a group coming together to voice their concerns.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your friends and you wrote a letter to the principal about something happening at school. That's what's happening here. Different people from different places are working together to tell the king about something they don't like.
Historical Background
This passage is part of the book of Ezra, written after the Babylonian exile. It describes a letter written to King Artaxerxes by various groups who are opposed to the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The audience was the Persian King and the people of Judah.
Living It Out Today
Today, when different groups unite to voice concerns to those in power, they can be effective. Just like these groups, people can come together to speak up about issues they care about, like environmental concerns or community safety.
