Ezra 6:13
Then Tatnai gouernour on this side the riuer, Shethar-Boznai, & their companions, according to that which Darius the king had sent, so they did speedily. Ezra 6:13 (KJV)
Ezra 6:13 is part of the book of Ezra, which records the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem after the Israelites returned from Babylonian exile. In the preceding chapters the Jewish community faced strong opposition. The adversaries of Judah wrote to King Darius, questioning the legitimacy of the temple project and requesting a search of the royal archives for evidence concerning Jerusalem’s history (see Ezra 5:6‑17). The search produced a decree confirming the Jews’ right to rebuild the temple and providing royal assistance (Ezra 6:1‑5).
Tatnai, identified in the verse as governor on this side of the Euphrates River, was the Persian official responsible for the region west of the river. He is also called Tattenai in some translations. Along with his associate Shethar‑boznai (or Shethar‑bozenai), an influential figure in the Persian administration, and other officials, Tatnai acted in direct response to the king’s command.
The phrase “according to that which Darius the king had sent” indicates that Tatnai and his companions were executing the decree that Darius had issued after the archival search. Upon receiving the decree, they acted promptly—“so they did speedily”—to ensure that the Jews encountered no further hindrance in the work of rebuilding the temple. Their swift obedience facilitated the continuation of the construction without delay.
The significance of this verse lies in its illustration of God’s sovereignty working through secular authorities. Even though the Israelites faced opposition, God’s purpose was advanced by the very officials who might have been expected to obstruct it. Their cooperation demonstrates how divine plans can be fulfilled through the obedience of earthly rulers.
Application for today includes three key principles. First, believers are called to obey God’s commands promptly, mirroring the officials’ readiness to act on the king’s decree. Second, we can trust in God’s overarching control, finding comfort that He can work through circumstances and authorities beyond our control. Third, the passage encourages cooperation and support among believers, urging us to assist one another in advancing God’s kingdom, just as the Persian officials facilitated the temple’s reconstruction.
In conclusion, Ezra 6:13 highlights the rapid obedience and cooperation of Tatnai, Shethar‑boznai, and their companions in carrying out King Darius’s decree. The verse reminds us of the importance of swift obedience to God’s direction, confidence in His sovereign governance, and the value of working together to fulfill His purposes.
