Ezra's Decree 457 BC (Alternative)

Medium Level 1

Fact

Alternative: Ezra's decree in fall 457 BC (if fall-to-fall reckoning)

Evidence

• Some scholars use fall-to-fall (Tishri) reckoning for Persian kings

• This would place year 7 of Artaxerxes in 457 BC

• 457 BC + 490 years = 33 AD crucifixion

• This is the minority interpretation

• Most evidence supports spring-to-spring (Nisan) reckoning

Depends On

Artaxerxes Accession Very High

This alternative dating would support a 33 AD crucifixion. However, the spring-to-spring reckoning producing 458 BC and 32 AD has stronger support.