Darius Confirms Cyrus’s Decree
Overview
- Testament: Old
- Book: Ezra
- Chapters: Ezra 5-6
- Summary: After Tattenai investigated the resumed temple work, Darius I found Cyrus’s original decree and ordered the rebuilding to continue with royal support.
Details
When the returned exiles resumed construction under the prophetic encouragement of Haggai and Zechariah, Tattenai asked who had authorized the work and sent a formal letter to Darius. The builders appealed to Cyrus’s earlier decree, so Darius commanded an archive search.
The decree was found at Ecbatana. Darius then ordered Tattenai and his associates to stay away from the work, fund it from royal tribute, and supply animals and goods for temple worship. What began as scrutiny became provision for completion.
Key People Involved
- Darius I - Persian king who confirmed the decree
- Tattenai - Governor who sent the inquiry
- Zerubbabel - Governor of Judah leading the work
- Jeshua - High priest involved in rebuilding
Key Places
Important Verses
“Let the work of this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place.” - Ezra 6:7
Cross-References
- Cyrus’s Decree - The original authorization
- Prophets Encourage - The work resumes before the inquiry
- Temple Completed - The confirmed support clears the way for completion
Notes
Darius’s decree shows providence bending imperial bureaucracy toward restoration rather than obstruction.