At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shethar-boznai, and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?
At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river. The Persian empire west of the Euphrates included at this time Syria, Arabia, Egypt, Phoenicia, and other provinces subject to Darius, surnamed Hystaspes. The empire was divided into twenty provinces, called satrapies. Syria formed one satrapy, inclusive of Palestine, Phoenicia, and Cyprus, and furnished an annual revenue of 350 talents. It was presided over by a satrap or viceroy, who at this time resided at Damascus, and though superior to the native governors of the Jews appointed by Persian king, never interfered with their internal government, except when there was a threatened disturbance or order and tranquillity. Tatnai, the governor (whether this was a personal name or an official title is unknown), had probably been incited by the complaints and turbulent outrages of the Samaritans against the Jews; but he suspended his judgment, and he prudently resolved to repair to Jerusalem, that he might ascertain the real state of matters by personal inspection and inquiry, in company with another dignified officer and his provincial council.