Ezra (Uzair)

Who He Was

Ezra (fl. fifth or fourth century BCE) is the main character of the Book of Ezra. According to the Hebrew Bible, he was an important Jewish scribe (sofer) and priest (kohen) in the early Second Temple period. In the Greek Septuagint, the name is rendered as Ésdrās (Ἔσδρας), from which the Latin name Esdras comes. "Ezra" is probably a shortened Aramaic form of the Hebrew name עֲזַרְיָהוּ (ʿAzaryāhū), meaning "Yah helps". In the Hebrew Bible, or the Christian Old Testament, Ezra is an important figure in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, which he is traditionally held to have written and edited, respectively. According to tradition, Ezra was also the author of the Books of Chronicles and the Book of Malachi. He is depicted as instrumental in restoring the Jewish scriptures and religion to the people after the return from the Babylonian captivity and is a highly respected figure in Judaism. He is regarded as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, which sets his feast day as July 13, the same as that of his contemporary, Nehemiah. He is also venerated as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church, which sets his feast day on the Sunday of the Holy Forefathers. There is no historical consensus on Ezra’s existence or mission due to a lack of extrabiblical evidence and conflicting scholarly interpretations, ranging from viewing him as a historical Aramean official to a literary figure, with debates hinging on the authenticity of the Artaxerxes rescript and its dating. Recognized in: Judaism, Christianity, Islam.

Identified by many commentators with the Quranic figure Uzair (Quran 9:30).

Birth and Early Life

Traditional and historical sources place Ezra (Uzair) in the era of 5th century BCE. Where such dates are traditional, mythic, or disputed rather than historically established, they should be read as the tradition's own reckoning rather than confirmed chronology.

His Calling / Mission

The scriptures and traditions of Judaism, Christianity, Islam describe the calling and mission of Ezra (Uzair); the key passages are listed under Sacred Texts and Scripture below.

Religion and Teachings

Ezra (Uzair) is honored within Judaism, Christianity, Islam. Identified by many commentators with the Quranic figure Uzair (Quran 9:30). His teaching and significance are set out in the sacred texts that record his life.

Sacred Texts and Scripture

Scriptural references: the Books of Ezra and Nehemiah; Quran 9:30

Major Accomplishments and Events

The account of Ezra (Uzair)'s life, works, and significance is preserved in the scriptures cited above and in the living tradition of Judaism, Christianity, Islam.

Death and Legacy

Ezra (Uzair) is remembered across Judaism, Christianity, Islam as one of the foundational figures of faith, and continues to be honored in scripture, devotion, and scholarship. Source: Wikipedia