Ezra 5:3 – “At that time Tattenai, governor of Trans-Euphrates, and Shethar-Bozenai and their associates went to them and asked, ‘Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and to finish it?'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Ezra 5:3 introduces a moment of challenge and confrontation. After Zerubbabel, Joshua, and the people of Israel began rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem, they were approached by Tattenai, the Persian-appointed governor of the surrounding region, and his associates. Their question, “Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and to finish it?” reflects both suspicion and concern. From their perspective, a rebuilding project of this scale could be seen as a potential rebellion or at least a violation of Persian authority.
Tattenai’s inquiry wasn’t necessarily hostile but rather aimed at ensuring that the Jews were acting within the legal framework of the Persian Empire. However, this question also points to the recurring theme of opposition faced by God’s people when they try to fulfill His purposes. It sets the stage for the unfolding events where God’s sovereignty and His people’s trust in His Word are tested.
Historical Context
The events in Ezra 5:3 take place during the reign of Darius I, king of Persia, who ruled from 522 to 486 BC. The Jewish people had returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile under the decree of Cyrus, king of Persia, who had authorized them to rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4). However, the work had been delayed due to opposition and internal discouragement.
When the rebuilding resumed, Tattenai, the governor of the region west of the Euphrates River (which included Jerusalem), took notice. As a regional governor, it was his duty to ensure that all construction projects within his jurisdiction were lawful and did not threaten Persian rule. His questioning reflects the political and social tensions of the time, as well as the delicate position of the Jews, who were under foreign rule yet trying to reestablish their religious and national identity.
Theological Implications
Ezra 5:3 highlights the reality that God’s people often face opposition when carrying out His purposes. Even though the rebuilding of the temple was sanctioned by God and initially authorized by King Cyrus, there were still challenges along the way. This teaches us that following God’s will does not guarantee a smooth path, but it does require faith and perseverance.
The question “Who authorized you?” also raises a deeper theological issue: who truly holds authority over God’s people and His work? While earthly powers like the Persian Empire may have political control, the ultimate authority belongs to God. The people of Israel were acting in obedience to God’s command, and their work was sanctioned by His sovereign will. This demonstrates that God’s authority transcends human governance, and His plans cannot be thwarted by earthly powers.
Literary Analysis
Ezra 5:3 introduces a new narrative tension in the story. After the hopeful action of rebuilding in verse 2, this verse brings in the element of external opposition. The phrasing of the question, “Who authorized you?” creates a sense of confrontation and challenge. This sets up the contrast between the authority of God’s Word, delivered through the prophets, and the authority of human rulers.
The verse also introduces key characters, Tattenai and Shethar-Bozenai, who will play a role in the following verses as they report back to the Persian king. Their role as officials of the Persian Empire serves to underscore the political context in which the temple rebuilding is taking place. The literary structure here highlights the tension between obedience to God and submission to earthly authorities, a theme that runs throughout the book of Ezra.
Biblical Cross-References
- Ezra 1:1-4 – King Cyrus’ decree authorizing the rebuilding of the temple, which is the legal basis for the Jews’ work in Ezra 5:3.
- Daniel 6:10 – Daniel’s experience of continuing in prayer to God despite a royal decree against it shows the tension between divine and human authority.
- Acts 4:18-20 – The apostles are commanded by the authorities not to preach in Jesus’ name, but they respond by saying, “We must obey God rather than men,” reflecting the same tension between obedience to God and opposition from human authorities.
- Romans 13:1 – This verse reminds us that all authority comes from God, which helps frame the idea that God is sovereign even over earthly rulers like Tattenai.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Ezra 5:3 serves as a reminder that challenges and opposition often accompany obedience to God. Whether it’s in the form of external resistance, as seen with Tattenai, or internal struggles like fear and discouragement, following God’s call is rarely without obstacles. This verse encourages us to stand firm in the face of such challenges, knowing that God is ultimately in control.
It also prompts us to think about the question of authority. As believers, we are called to respect and submit to earthly authorities, but our ultimate allegiance is to God. When human laws or rulers conflict with God’s commands, we must have the courage to obey God, trusting that He will vindicate us just as He did with the Jews in Ezra’s time.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Ezra 5:3 reflects God’s love for His people, even in the midst of opposition. While Tattenai’s question may have been intimidating, God was still at work behind the scenes. His love is evident in the way He guided the people through this period of challenge. He had not forgotten His promise to restore Israel, and He continued to protect and provide for His people as they faced external scrutiny.
God’s love is also seen in His patience. The temple rebuilding project had been delayed for many years, yet God remained faithful to His people. He sent prophets to encourage them and gave them the strength to persevere, showing that His love is enduring and constant, even when we face difficulties.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Ezra 5:3 connects to Jesus Christ in several ways. Just as the Jewish people faced opposition in rebuilding the temple, Jesus faced opposition during His ministry, particularly from religious and political authorities. When questioned about His authority (e.g., Matthew 21:23), Jesus made it clear that His authority came from God the Father. In this way, both the temple builders in Ezra and Jesus were carrying out the will of God in the face of opposition.
Additionally, the temple itself points to Jesus. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the true temple (John 2:19-21), indicating that He is the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity. Just as the Jews in Ezra’s time were rebuilding the physical temple, Jesus came to restore the spiritual temple—the relationship between God and His people—through His death and resurrection.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever faced opposition or questioning when trying to follow God’s will? How did you respond?
- In what areas of your life are you being challenged to trust in God’s authority over earthly powers?
- How does knowing that God’s plans cannot be thwarted by human opposition encourage you in your faith?
- How can you balance respecting earthly authorities while also being faithful to God’s higher calling, as seen in Ezra 5:3?
This verse reminds us that opposition is often a part of following God, but His authority and love remain steadfast. Just as He was with the temple builders in Ezra’s time, He is with us today, guiding us through every challenge we face as we seek to follow Him.