Artaxerxes Longimanus

Artaxerxes longimanus
That is quite the name
Though he was not a Hebrew
God used him just the same

His name Longimanus
Was due to his right hand
Being Longer than his left
It identified that man

He played a part in prophecy
Unbeknownst to him
When a decree was sent forth
To rebuild Jerusalem

Seventy weeks of years
Leading to the Messiah
This happened right on time
As it was prophesied

In Artaxerxes’ twentieth year
Nehemiah asked
Permission to go to Jerusalem
To complete a task

Jehovah’s ancient city
Was a very big mess
When he asked to leave
Nehemiah was distressed

Uttering a silent prayer
Without bowing his head
Asking Jehovah for his help
Not many words were said

While serving at the palace
In the city of Shushan
Cupbearer to the king
He had the ear of that man

Nehemiah was elated
To receive the good news
Sending food and supplies
The king showed he approved

Giving wheat, wine, and oil
He was generous
His gift of gold and silver
Was truly tremendous

He continued to rule
Til 423 BCE
Fifty one years in all
As king of Persia he’d be

A benevolent man
In personality
That’s how we’ll remember
King Artaxerxes