Overview
Tatnai served as the governor of the Persian province west of the Euphrates during the reign of King Darius. When the Jews resumed construction of the temple in Jerusalem, Tatnai and his associates questioned their authority to rebuild. However, after investigating the matter and receiving confirmation from King Darius that the original decree of Cyrus authorized the work, Tatnai reversed his position and provided support for the project's completion.
Key Scriptures
"Then Tatnai, the governor of the region beyond the River, and Shethar-bozenai and their associates came to them and spoke to them thus: 'Who gave you a decree to build this house and to finish this wall?'" (Ezra 5:3, ESV).
"Now therefore, if it seems good to the king, let a search be made in the royal archives there in Babylon, to see whether a decree was issued by King Cyrus for the rebuilding of this house of God in Jerusalem" (Ezra 6:1, ESV).
Application
God can use civil authorities and circumstances to advance His purposes, even when initial opposition arises.