King James Version

What Does Ezra 5:6 Mean?

Ezra 5:6 in the King James Version says “The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and his companions the Apharsach...” — study this verse from Ezra chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king:”

Ezra 5:6 · KJV

Context

Then said we unto them after this manner, What are the names of the men that make this building? make: Chaldee, build

But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this matter.

The copy of the letter that Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and his companions the Apharsachites, which were on this side the river, sent unto Darius the king:

They sent a letter unto him, wherein was written thus; Unto Darius the king, all peace. wherein: Chaldee, in the midst whereof

Be it known unto the king, that we went into the province of Judea, to the house of the great God, which is builded with great stones, and timber is laid in the walls, and this work goeth fast on, and prospereth in their hands. great: Chaldee, stones of rolling

Read Ezra 5 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary

The formal letter introduction identifies the senders and recipient with precise bureaucratic terminology. Tatnai (Tattenai in Aramaic) served as governor (pechah) of the Trans-Euphrates satrapy—the vast region "on this side the river" encompassing Syria, Phoenicia, and Palestine. Shethar-boznai likely served as his secretary or deputy. The "Apharsachites" (Apharsekaye) were Persian officials or inspectors stationed throughout the satrapy.

The careful documentation of official titles and geographic jurisdiction reflects authentic Persian chancellery style. Archaeological discoveries of Persian-period correspondence confirm this precise administrative language. The letter's preservation in the biblical text demonstrates God's providential arrangement of historical documentation—what began as a challenge became evidence of divine faithfulness.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The Trans-Euphrates satrapy (Abar Nahara) was one of the Persian Empire's most important provinces, encompassing territory from the Euphrates to Egypt. Tatnai's position placed him over a vast administrative region with significant strategic importance as the corridor between Mesopotamia and Egypt. His investigation of Jerusalem was part of standard provincial oversight, particularly important during the unstable early years of Darius's reign.

Reflection Questions

How does God use even hostile or neutral authorities to document and preserve evidence of His work in history?
What does the formal, respectful tone of Persian administration teach about engaging with secular authorities while serving God?