The letter to Darius.
The occasion of this letter was the resumption of the work of rebuilding the temple of the Lord at Jerusalem after an interval of sixteen years. The authors of it are Tatnai, the governor, probably of all the provinces west of the Euphrates, and Shethar-boznai, who may have been the scribe or secretary associated with him, as Shimshai was with Rehum (see Ezra 4:8). Or possibly Shethar-boznai was the leading man of the Apharsachites; for these are mentioned as more particularly "his companions." The Apharsachites probably called the attention of Tatnai to the matter, who attended to it in a spirit of fairness which favourably contrasts with the conduct of the former leaders of these instigators (see Ezra 4:1-24.). Having authenticated the letter, the writers proceed to state—
I. WHAT THEY DID.
1. They surveyed the building.
2. They interrogated the elders.
II. WHAT THEY LEARNED.
1. That the builders professed themselves servants of the God of heaven and earth.
2. That they were engaged in no novel business.
3. That its ruin was occasioned by the rebellion of their fathers.
4. That the building is in process of restoration.
5. The prominent place occupied by Sheshbazzar.
III. THE RECOMMENDATION.
1. To test the question as to whether Cyrus authorised the work as alleged. Nothing to object to the fairness of this. It could only prejudice the Jews if found untrue.
2. To signify the king's pleasure to his servants that they might carry it out. It were well if all who oppose God's people were as reasonable as Tatnai. Opponents so honest and free from prejudice may have the honour, like Tatnai, of promoting the work of God (see Ezra 6:13).—J.A.M.
HOMILIES BY J.S. EXELL