Shethar-Boznai is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Ezra. He is identified as an official of the Persian Empire during the reign of King Darius I. His role and actions are significant in the context of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile and the subsequent rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical References:

Shethar-Boznai is primarily mentioned in Ezra 5:3 and Ezra 6:6-13. In these passages, he is depicted as a regional governor or official who, along with Tattenai, the governor of the province beyond the River (Euphrates), questions the Jews about their authority to rebuild the Temple. The text in Ezra 5:3 states: "At that time Tattenai, governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-Boznai, and their associates came to them and asked, 'Who gave you the authority to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?'"

Role and Actions:

Shethar-Boznai's involvement is part of a broader inquiry into the activities of the Jewish exiles who had returned to Jerusalem. The officials, including Shethar-Boznai, were concerned about the potential implications of the Temple's reconstruction, possibly fearing a resurgence of Jewish autonomy or rebellion against Persian rule. Their inquiry led to a formal report being sent to King Darius, seeking clarification on the matter and requesting a search of the royal archives to verify the Jews' claims of authorization by King Cyrus.

In response to this inquiry, King Darius issued a decree that not only confirmed the original edict of Cyrus allowing the reconstruction but also commanded that the work should not be hindered. Ezra 6:6-7 records Darius's directive: "Now therefore, Tattenai, governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-Boznai, and your associates and officials of that region, stay away from there. Leave the work on this house of God alone. Let the governor of the Jews and the Jewish elders rebuild this house of God on its original site."

Historical and Theological Significance:

From a historical perspective, Shethar-Boznai's actions reflect the administrative processes of the Persian Empire, which allowed for local governance while maintaining central oversight. His involvement illustrates the complexities faced by the Jewish community in re-establishing their religious and cultural identity under foreign rule.

Theologically, the account of Shethar-Boznai serves as a testament to God's providence and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. Despite opposition and bureaucratic challenges, the rebuilding of the Temple proceeded, underscoring the theme of divine sovereignty and the fulfillment of prophetic declarations regarding the restoration of Jerusalem.

Shethar-Boznai's role, though seemingly adversarial, ultimately contributes to the narrative of God's protection and provision for the Jewish exiles, as the Persian authorities, under divine influence, facilitate rather than hinder the restoration efforts.Ezra 5:3,6
At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai and their companions, and said thus to them, Who has commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?
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Ezra 6:6,13
Now therefore, Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and your companions the Apharsachites, which are beyond the river, be you far from there:
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