Question 1

What does Ezra 6:13 mean?

Accepted Answer

Ezra 6:13 describes how Tatnai, the governor west of the Euphrates River, along with Shetharboznai and their associates, quickly obeyed the orders sent by King Darius. They carried out the king’s instructions without delay, as the king had commanded. The verse is set during the time when the Jewish people were rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after returning from exile. Tatnai and Shetharboznai were Persian officials overseeing the region, and after receiving King Darius’s decree supporting the rebuilding, they made sure to follow his directive promptly. This shows the authority of the Persian king and the officials’ careful obedience to his command.

Question 2

The Aramaic behind Ezra 6:13

Accepted Answer

"governor" (פַּחַת, pachat): This word refers to a regional governor or official under the Persian Empire. It highlights Tatnai’s official role and responsibility in carrying out the king’s orders. "side" (עֵבֶר, eber) and "river" (נָהָר, nahar): Together, these words refer to the area “beyond the river,” meaning the region west of the Euphrates. This clarifies the geographic setting of the events. "speedily" (בִּזְעָה, biz‘ah): This word means quickly or diligently. It emphasizes that the officials did not delay in obeying King Darius’s command, showing their respect for royal authority.

Question 3

Why Ezra 6:13 matters

Accepted Answer

Ezra 6:13 shows the Persian officials’ willingness to comply with the king’s decree, which protected the Jewish rebuilding effort from local opposition. The verse highlights the reach and power of the Persian king’s authority, even over distant provinces and local governors. By noting the officials’ prompt obedience, the verse reassures readers that the temple project would continue without interference, as the highest authority had spoken.

Ezra 6:13 (KJV)