Ezra 6:13
Then Tatnai, governor on this side the river, Shethar-boznai, and their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily.
Original Language Analysis
עֲבַֽר
on this side
H5675
עֲבַֽר
on this side
Strong's:
H5675
Word #:
4 of 16
properly, a region across; but used only adverbially (with or without a preposition) on the opposite side (especially of the jordan; ususally meaning
וּכְנָוָֽתְה֑וֹן
and their companions
H3675
וּכְנָוָֽתְה֑וֹן
and their companions
Strong's:
H3675
Word #:
8 of 16
a colleague (as having the same title)
לָֽקֳבֵ֗ל
according
H6903
לָֽקֳבֵ֗ל
according
Strong's:
H6903
Word #:
9 of 16
(adverbially) in front of; usually (with other particles) on account of, so as, since, hence
דִּֽי
H1768
דִּֽי
Strong's:
H1768
Word #:
10 of 16
that, used as relative conjunction, and especially (with a preposition) in adverbial phrases; also as preposition of
שְׁלַ֞ח
had sent
H7972
שְׁלַ֞ח
had sent
Strong's:
H7972
Word #:
11 of 16
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
Historical Context
Tattenai's initial inquiry (Ezra 5:3-17) could have led to work stoppage, as earlier opposition had achieved. Instead, his honest reporting led to decree validation and his own orders to support the project. Ancient governors commonly obeyed royal decrees promptly to maintain imperial favor and avoid punishment. The rapid compliance ('speedily') prevented further delays and enabled quick work completion.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Tattenai's transformation from questioner to supporter demonstrate God's control over human hearts and governmental processes?
- What does prompt obedience to imperial decrees teach about the importance of legitimate authority and ordered society?
Analysis & Commentary
Tattenai's obedience—'Then Tattenai, governor on this side the river, Shethar-boznai, and their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily'—demonstrates governmental efficiency. The word 'speedily' shows prompt compliance without resistance or delay. This transformed former inquirers into active supporters. God's sovereignty turns questioning officials into obedient facilitators. The progression from inquiry to validation to support demonstrates providential orchestration of events.