Ezra 4:20

Persian Dari Bible - Afgan Dialect - Version Good News for a New Age (GNN) == 2007

پادشاهان مقتدر بر آنجا حکومت کرده اند و بر تمام ایالت غربی دریای فرات فرمان رانده و باج و خراج گرفته اند.

What Does This Mean?

This verse is describing how Jerusalem has had powerful kings who ruled over many countries beyond a river, and these kings collected taxes from the people. It emphasizes the historical significance and power of Jerusalem.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing a game where you're the leader of a big, powerful kingdom. You have a lot of friends who give you treats, and you get to make decisions for everyone. That's kind of like what this verse is talking about, but for real kings in a place called Jerusalem.

Historical Background

Ezra, a priest and scribe, wrote this passage around the 5th century BCE. The text is addressing the Persian kings and explaining the historical context of Jerusalem's rulership and taxation system.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse can remind us of the importance of leadership and governance. Like those kings who collected taxes to support their kingdom, leaders today need to ensure the well-being of their communities through responsible management.

Topics

• leadership
• history
• taxation
• Jerusalem
• kingship
• power

Related Verses

• 1 Kings 4:21
• 2 Kings 17:5
• Ezra 7:23
• Matthew 17:24
• Romans 13:6

Recommended Reading

Commentary Ezra Commentaries → Get This Bible GNN Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Jerusalem mentioned in Ezra 4:20?

Jerusalem is mentioned because it was the capital city and a central hub for the kings who ruled over various territories, including those beyond the Euphrates River.

Who are the 'mighty kings' mentioned in Ezra 4:20?

The 'mighty kings' refer to the kings who once ruled over Jerusalem and had a significant influence over neighboring regions, collecting taxes from them.

How does this verse relate to governance?

This verse illustrates the concept of governance through historical examples of powerful kings who managed vast territories and collected taxes, which were crucial for the kingdom's administration.

What can we learn from the taxation system mentioned in Ezra 4:20?

The verse highlights the importance of taxation systems in maintaining the well-being of a kingdom. Modern leaders can learn about the necessity of responsible financial management for the benefit of their communities.