Ezra 7:11
Now this is the copy of the letter that the king Artaxerxes gave unto Ezra the priest, the scribe, even a scribe of the words of the commandments of the Lord, and of his statutes to Israel.
Cross-reference
In Ezra 7:6, Ezra's qualifications and divine favor are described—the very reasons the king granted the letter authorizing his journey.
In Ezra 7:7, the group of Israelites traveling with Ezra is listed, providing the context for whom the letter authorizes to go up to Jerusalem.
In Ezra 7:21, the king's decree continues, commanding treasurers to supply Ezra—part of the same letter introduced in verse 11.
In Ezra 4:11, a copy of an accusatory letter sent to Artaxerxes contrasts with the royal decree here that authorizes Ezra's mission.
In Ezra 5:6, a similar 'copy of the letter' formula introduces an inquiry about the temple, mirroring the formal opening of the royal decree here.
In Matthew 23:13, Jesus condemns hypocritical teachers who shut heaven's door—a stark contrast to Ezra, who faithfully taught God's commands.
In Mark 7:1-13, Jesus rebukes those who nullify God's word with human tradition—opposite to Ezra's role as a scribe devoted to God's law.
In Nehemiah 8:1, the people ask Ezra to bring the Book of the Law—fulfilling the teaching role authorized by the king's letter here.
In Nehemiah 8:9, Ezra and Nehemiah instruct the people after the law reading, showing the impact of the commission from the royal decree.
Daniel 9:25 refers to a decree to restore Jerusalem — many identify this with Artaxerxes' decree in Ezra 7, making it a key chronological link.
Nehemiah 12:26 also calls Ezra 'the priest, the scribe' — confirming his dual role during the post-exilic period.
In Matthew 23:2, Jesus acknowledges scribes and Pharisees sitting in Moses' seat—Ezra exemplifies the faithful scribe who teaches God's law.