Ezra 5:3

At the same time came to them Tatnai, gouernour on this side the Riuer, and Shethar-Boznai, and their companions, and said thus vnto them; Who hath commaunded you to build this house, and to make vp this wall? Ezra 5:3 (KJV)

Historical Context: The book of Ezra recounts the story of the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem from Babylon to rebuild the temple. After the decree of King Cyrus, some of the Jews began the work of rebuilding the temple, but they faced opposition from the local officials.

Opposition from Tatnai and Shetharboznai: In this verse, Tatnai, the governor of the region on the west side of the Euphrates River, and Shetharboznai, along with their companions, confronted the Jewish people who were involved in the construction of the temple. They questioned the authority behind this project and asked who had given them the command to build the house and restore the wall. At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side of the river, and Shetharboznai, and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?

The Authority Question: Tatnai and Shetharboznai were likely concerned about the legitimacy of the project and wanted to ensure that the Jews had the necessary authorization to carry out this task. Their inquiry reveals their intent to halt the construction until the matter could be resolved.

Significance of the Question: The question raised by Tatnai and Shetharboznai highlights an important aspect of their role as local officials responsible for maintaining order and reporting to the Persian authorities. They needed to confirm that the rebuilding project was being conducted under proper authority and was not a rebellious act against the king’s decree.