Ezra 5:4

Ezra 5:4 (KJV) records a pivotal question posed by the Persian officials to the Jewish elders who were diligently working to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. This verse is part of a larger narrative detailing the challenges and divine assistance experienced by the returned exiles.

Context

Following the decree of King Cyrus (Ezra 1:2-4), the Jewish people returned from Babylonian exile and began the monumental task of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. However, their efforts were met with significant opposition from the local adversaries, as detailed in Ezra chapter 4, which led to a halt in construction for many years. In Ezra 5, under the prophetic encouragement of Haggai and Zechariah, the work resumed. This renewal of activity caught the attention of Tatnai, the governor of Trans-Euphrates, and Shethar-Bozenai, his associate, who then came to investigate the legality of the construction. The question in verse 4, "What are the names of the men that make this building?", is a direct inquiry from these Persian authorities, seeking to identify the leaders and workers behind the temple project.

Key Themes

• Authority and Investigation: The Persian officials were exercising their administrative authority, seeking to understand who was responsible for the building project and under what authority they were acting. This was a standard procedure for governing a vast empire.
• Opposition and Scrutiny: While presented as an administrative inquiry, this question arises from an underlying suspicion and opposition to the Jewish work. The officials were likely prompted by the local adversaries who had previously tried to hinder the rebuilding (Ezra 4:5).
• Divine Oversight: Despite the scrutiny, this investigation ultimately served God's purposes. The subsequent inquiry by King Darius led to the reaffirmation of Cyrus's decree and even greater support for the temple's completion (Ezra 6:1-12). This demonstrates God's sovereignty over human authorities and their actions.

Linguistic Insights

The Aramaic phrase translated "after this manner" (כְּדֵין אָמַרְנָא לְהוֹן, kedein amarna lehon) indicates a direct and formal questioning. The officials were not merely curious but were conducting a formal inquiry, requiring specific information from the Jewish leaders, including the names of those involved. This precision underscores the official nature of their investigation.

Practical Application

Ezra 5:4 offers several lessons for believers today:

• Expect Scrutiny: When undertaking significant work for God, especially that which challenges the status quo or requires public action, one should expect scrutiny, questions, and even opposition from various sources.
• God's Sovereignty in Opposition: This verse reminds us that God can use even the investigative actions of earthly authorities to further His plans. What appears as a hindrance can become a means for God to demonstrate His power and provision.
• Transparency and Accountability: The Jewish leaders, in response to this question, were transparent about their work and the divine authority under which they operated. This serves as a reminder of the importance of operating with integrity and being prepared to give an account for one's actions, especially when representing God's work.