Ezra the Prophet

Ezra (or Esdras) and his contemporary Nehemia are the major sources for the period of time named “The Restoration,” the years immediately following the end of the Babylonian Captivity. So in our canon of the Hebrew Scriptures, they appear at the end of the historical section.

Ezra may have written even more, but only one book of the Hebrew Scriptures is considered the inspired word of God. Other writings are considered apochryphal.

Ezra and Nehemia are principally responsible for Israel’s return to the observance of the Sinai Covenant. They are a constant reminder of the fact that Israel is called to observe the Law. Failure to do so was, according to them, the reason for the fall of Israel to the Assyrian king. Ezra is remembered on July 13.