Definition: The letter which ye sent unto us hath been plainly read before me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 4:18. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising statement! Here's the explanation in plain language: Basically, Ezra is saying: “I’ve already read what you sent to us.” Let’s unpack that a little further: Ezra: This was a Jewish priest and leader during the time of the Persian Empire. He was responsible for restoring religious practices and rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem after it had been damaged. 4:18: This is a specific passage from the Book of Ezra. “The letter which ye sent unto us” : This refers to a letter or document that the people of Judah (the area around Jerusalem) were sending to him. It was essentially a message, an invitation, or an explanation about what they needed to do. “Has been plainly read before me.” : This is the key part! The word “plainly” means clearly and directly. So, Ezra isn’t just saying he read it, he says he directly and completely read it. It suggests he's seen the letter multiple times, and he understands its content thoroughly. What does this tell us about Ezra? It tells us that: He was attentive: He wasn’t just passively receiving the message; he was actively looking at it. He understood it well: The fact that he “plainly read” it suggests a deep understanding of what was being conveyed. He was involved in a process of correction and restoration: The letter likely contained instructions about how to rebuild the temple and bring back the people to worship God properly. In short, this verse highlights Ezra's dedication to reading and understanding the message sent to him. It shows he was actively engaged in a crucial task – restoring faith and rebuilding a sacred place. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of Ezra 4:18 (like its historical importance)?