7. Ezra had such a great understanding that he left out nothing from the Law that came from the Lord or the commandments, but he taught Israel all the regulations and decisions.
8. The following is a copy of the written decree from King Artaxerxes that he gave to Ezra the priest and reader of the Law from the Lord:
9. King Artaxerxes to Ezra the priest and reader of the Law from the Lord.Greetings.
10. In accordance with my humane policies, I have given orders that those who are mindful of the Judean people and of the priests, Levites, and others in our kingdom, those who wish to do so, may accompany you to Jerusalem.
11. Therefore, let all who wish to do so join with you, just as I and my seven advisors have agreed,
12. so that they might take an interest in matters in Judea and in Jerusalem, according to the Law from the Lord.
13. They might bring to Jerusalem the gifts for the Lord of Israel that I and my advisors have solemnly promised. They might acquire for the Lord in Jerusalem all the gold and silver that may be found in the country of Babylonia, together with what the nation gives them for the Lord’s temple in Jerusalem.
14. Gold and silver for bulls, rams, lambs, and what goes with them should be collected
15. so that sacrifices may be offered on their Lord’s altar in Jerusalem.