Bible

Ezra 7:21-26

View Full Chapter

21Now I, King Artaxerxes, decree that all the treasurers of Trans-Euphrates are to provide with diligence whatever Ezra the priest, the teacher of the Law of the God of heaven, may ask of you— 22up to a hundred talents That is, about 3 3/4 tons or about 3.4 metric tons of silver, a hundred cors That is, probably about 18 tons or about 16 metric tons of wheat, a hundred baths That is, about 600 gallons or about 2,200 liters of wine, a hundred baths That is, about 600 gallons or about 2,200 liters of olive oil, and salt without limit. 23Whatever the God of heaven has prescribed, let it be done with diligence for the temple of the God of heaven. Why should his wrath fall on the realm of the king and of his sons?

24You are also to know that you have no authority to impose taxes, tribute or duty on any of the priests, Levites, musicians, gatekeepers, temple servants or other workers at this house of God. 25And you, Ezra, in accordance with the wisdom of your God, which you possess, appoint magistrates and judges to administer justice to all the people of Trans-Euphrates—all who know the laws of your God. And you are to teach any who do not know them.

26Whoever does not obey the law of your God and the law of the king must surely be punished by death, banishment, confiscation of property, or imprisonment. The text of 7:12-26 is in Aramaic.