# This was the decree

The text following this statement was the decree given by King Artaxerxes.

# The King of kings Artaxerxes

"The King of kings" was a title, meaning that he was the greatest of kings, the king that other kings obeyed. AT: "The Great King Artaxerxes" or "Artaxerxes, the greatest king" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

# I am ordering that anyone ... who desires to go to Jerusalem

In those days people needed permission from the king to resettle and rebuild in an area previously destroyed by the conquering nation.

# may go with you

The word "you" refers to Ezra.