Ezra 5:3
At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shethar-boznai, and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Persian administrative practice required detailed documentation and authorization for major projects. The extensive bureaucracy prevented local officials from initiating significant work without central approval. Tatnai's inquiry followed standard procedure rather than representing uniquely hostile opposition to Jews.
The mention of 'this wall' alongside 'this house' has generated scholarly discussion. Some suggest opponents falsely claimed Jews were rebuilding defensive fortifications (which would threaten imperial security), while others view 'wall' as referring to temple enclosure walls. The concern about walls recalls earlier opposition claims that Jerusalem's rebuilding aimed at rebellion (Ezra 4:12-16).
Archaeological evidence shows Persian satrapies maintained communication systems enabling rapid information flow. Royal roads and courier systems meant local activities quickly reached central authorities. This infrastructure, while potentially threatening to Jews, ultimately served God's purposes by allowing Darius to investigate, confirm Cyrus's decree, and order project continuation with imperial funding.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Tatnai's procedural inquiry distinguish legitimate governmental oversight from hostile opposition to God's work?
- What does this verse teach about navigating bureaucratic systems while pursuing God's calling?
- How should believers balance ultimate allegiance to God with respect for legitimate governmental authority?
Analysis & Commentary
Tatnai, as 'governor on this side the river' (pachath abar nahara), governed the Persian satrapy west of the Euphrates, making him Zerubbabel's superior in the imperial hierarchy. His arrival 'at the same time' as construction commenced suggests intelligence networks informed Persian authorities of the activity. Shethar-boznai likely served as Tatnai's secretary or assistant official.
The question 'Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?' focuses on authorization within Persian bureaucracy. Ancient Near Eastern empires required royal permission for significant building projects, especially fortifications. Tatnai's concern was procedural—ensuring proper authorization existed—rather than merely hostile opposition. This demonstrates how God's work must sometimes navigate governmental systems and regulations.
Theologically, this verse illustrates that obeying God doesn't exempt believers from accountability to earthly authorities. Zerubbabel and Jeshua couldn't claim divine calling as reason to ignore imperial law. Instead, they had to demonstrate that their work had proper authorization (Cyrus's original decree). This models Christian dual citizenship—ultimate allegiance to God while respecting legitimate governmental authority (Romans 13:1-7).