The Medo-Persian Kingdom, a significant empire in biblical history, is often referenced in the context of the Jewish exile and subsequent return to Jerusalem. Among the rulers of this empire, Artaxerxes Smerdis is a figure of particular interest due to his brief and controversial reign.

Historical Context

The Medo-Persian Empire, also known as the Achaemenid Empire, succeeded the Babylonian Empire and played a pivotal role in the history of the Jewish people. It was under the rule of Cyrus the Great, the founder of the empire, that the Jews were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple, as recorded in the book of Ezra.

Artaxerxes Smerdis: The Usurper

Artaxerxes Smerdis, also known as Bardiya or Gaumata, is considered an usurper in the annals of Persian history. His reign is shrouded in intrigue and controversy, primarily due to the manner in which he ascended to the throne. According to historical accounts, Smerdis was a Magian priest who seized power by impersonating Bardiya, the brother of Cambyses II, the legitimate king.

The biblical reference to Artaxerxes Smerdis is found in the book of Ezra, where he is mentioned in the context of opposition to the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. Ezra 4:7-24 describes a letter sent to "Artaxerxes" by the enemies of Judah and Benjamin, urging the king to halt the construction efforts. The text states:

"In the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote to Artaxerxes king of Persia. The letter was written in Aramaic and then translated. Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe wrote a letter against Jerusalem to King Artaxerxes as follows..." (Ezra 4:7-8).

The passage goes on to detail the accusations made against the Jews, claiming that the rebuilding of Jerusalem would lead to rebellion and loss of revenue for the king. In response, Artaxerxes issued a decree to stop the work, which was enforced until the second year of the reign of Darius the Great.

Significance in Biblical Narrative

Artaxerxes Smerdis' role in the biblical narrative highlights the challenges faced by the Jewish community during their efforts to restore their homeland. His decree to halt the rebuilding of the temple represents a period of opposition and delay, testing the faith and perseverance of the Jewish people.

The account of Artaxerxes Smerdis serves as a reminder of the political and spiritual struggles encountered by the exiles. Despite the temporary setback, the narrative ultimately underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness, as the temple's reconstruction resumed under the subsequent reign of Darius the Great.

Conclusion

Artaxerxes Smerdis, though a brief and contentious figure in the history of the Medo-Persian Empire, plays a crucial role in the biblical account of the Jewish return from exile. His actions, as recorded in the book of Ezra, provide insight into the complex interplay of political power and divine providence during this pivotal period in Israel's history.Ezra 4:7
And in the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their companions, to Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter was written in the Syrian tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue.
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