Artaxerxes is a name of great historical significance, derived from the Greek adaptation of the Old Persian name 𐎠𐎼𐎫𐎧𐏁𐏂𐎠 (Artaxšaça), meaning "reign through truth". This name is composed of the elements arta ("truth") and xšaçam ("reign, kingdom"). The most famous bearers are several Achaemenid kings of Persia, most notably Artaxerxes I and Artaxerxes II, who ruled the vast Persian Empire during the 5th and 4th centuries BCE. In the Bible, Artaxerxes is mentioned in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, where he is depicted as a Persian king who authorized the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Etymology and Historical Usage The name Artaxerxes entered the Greek language (Ἀρταξέρξης) through contacts with the Persian court and was later adopted into Latin as Artaxerxēs. The Old Persian form Artaxšaça reflects the Zoroastrian concept of asha (truth), which was central to Achaemenid ideology. The name's meaning highlights the king's role as a champion of righteousness. In addition to the Achaemenid rulers, the name was also borne by the founder of the Sasanian Empire, Ardashir I, though this form represents a Middle Persian development (Ardashir). Other related names include Artaxias, a hellenized version used by ancient Armenian kings, and modern forms like Artashes (Armenian) and Ardashir (Middle Persian) and Ardeshir (Persian). Notable Bearers Among the Achaemenid kings, Artaxerxes I (reigned 465–424 BCE) is known for putting down the Revolt of Megabyzus and for his support of the Jews as recorded in the Bible. Artaxerxes II (reigned 404–358 BCE) is famous for his prolonged conflict with Sparta and the rise of the state of Cappadocia. In later tradition, Sasanian founder Ardashir I revived the name, though via a different branch of the Iranian linguistic tree. Cultural and Religious Significance In Jewish and Christian scripture, Artaxerxes appears as a Persian king under whom the priest Ezra and Nehemiah the governor carried out their missions to restore Jerusalem. The biblical accounts portray him as a tolerant and favorable ruler, which has contributed to the name's occasional use in Western contexts, particularly among Christians referencing biblical history. Meaning: "Reign through truth" Origin: Old Persian (via Greek) Type: First name Usage regions: Ancient Persian, historical Bible, Armenian, Persian