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This letter has three chief divisions.

I. THE INQUISITION OF THE PERSIAN AUTHORITIES.

II. THE REPLY OF THE JEWISH LEADERS. It presents the following aspects of the work. That it was —

1. Not a mere human enterprise, but a Divine commission.

2. Not an innovation, but a restoration.

3. Not in a spirit of presumption and pride, but of obedience and humility.

4. Not in opposition to, but. in conformity with, royal authority.

5. Not political, but religious in its character.

III. THE APPEAL OF THE PERSIAN AUTHORITIES TO THE KING. Conclusion: Two things we may well admire and imitate.

1. The fairness of the Persian officials.

2. The faithfulness of the Jewish leaders.

(William Jones.)

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KJV: 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:

WEB: The copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor beyond the River, and Shetharbozenai, and his companions the Apharsachites, who were beyond the River, sent to Darius the king;