Topical Encyclopedia Sathrabuzanes is a figure mentioned in the context of the rebuilding of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem during the reign of King Darius of Persia. His role is documented in the Book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent efforts to restore the temple and reestablish worship according to the Law of Moses.Biblical Context Sathrabuzanes is identified as a Persian official, specifically a governor or a high-ranking officer, who was involved in the administration of the region beyond the River (the Euphrates). His name appears in the narrative concerning the opposition faced by the Jewish community as they endeavored to rebuild the temple. The account is found in Ezra 5:3-6, where he is mentioned alongside Tattenai, the governor of the province, and other officials. Role and Actions In the Book of Ezra, Sathrabuzanes is part of the group that questions the authority of the Jewish leaders to rebuild the temple. The text states: "At that time Tattenai, governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates came to them and asked, 'Who gave you the authority to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?'" (Ezra 5:3). This inquiry led to a formal investigation, and a letter was sent to King Darius to verify the claims of the Jewish elders that they had been granted permission by King Cyrus to rebuild the temple. Sathrabuzanes, therefore, played a significant role in the administrative process that ultimately led to the confirmation of the Jews' right to continue their work. Historical and Theological Significance From a historical perspective, Sathrabuzanes represents the complex interactions between the Persian authorities and the Jewish community during the post-exilic period. His involvement underscores the bureaucratic challenges and the need for official sanction in the Persian Empire, which was characterized by a structured and hierarchical administration. Theologically, the account of Sathrabuzanes and his associates serves to highlight the providence of God in the affairs of His people. Despite the opposition and the potential for conflict, the intervention of Persian officials like Sathrabuzanes ultimately led to the reaffirmation of the decree of Cyrus, allowing the temple reconstruction to proceed. This narrative reinforces the theme of divine sovereignty and faithfulness, as God uses even foreign rulers and officials to accomplish His purposes for Israel. Linguistic Notes The name "Sathrabuzanes" is rendered as "Shethar-bozenai" in the Berean Standard Bible. The variations in spelling across different translations reflect the challenges of transliterating ancient names from Hebrew and Aramaic into English. The name itself may have Persian origins, indicative of his role within the Persian administration. Conclusion While Sathrabuzanes is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his involvement in the events of Ezra 5 illustrates the broader geopolitical and administrative context of the Persian Empire during the time of the Jewish return from exile. His actions, as recorded in Scripture, contribute to the unfolding account of God's redemptive plan for His people. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SATHRABUZANESsath-ra-bu'-za-nez, sath-ra-bu-za'-nez (Sathrabouzanes): In 1 Esdras 6:3, 7, 27 = "Shethar-bozenai" in Ezra 5:3, 6; Ezra 6:6, 13. Library How the Temple was Built While the Cutheans Endeavored in Vain to ... How Cyrus, King of the Persians, Delivered the Jews Out Of Book 11 Footnotes Thesaurus Sathrabuzanes...SATHRABUZANES. sath-ra-bu'-za-nez, sath-ra-bu-za'-nez (Sathrabouzanes): In 1 Esdras 6:3, 7, 27 = "Shethar-bozenai" in Ezra 5:3, 6; Ezra 6:6, 13. ... /s/sathrabuzanes.htm - 6k Satest (2 Occurrences) Satiate (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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