The "Letter to King Darius" refers to the correspondence mentioned in the Book of Ezra, specifically in Ezra 5 and 6, where the Jewish exiles, led by Zerubbabel and Jeshua, seek to resume the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem after their return from Babylonian captivity. This letter is a significant document in the narrative of the restoration of the Jewish community and their religious practices following the decree of Cyrus the Great.

Historical Context

The historical backdrop of this letter is the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem, which was initiated by the decree of Cyrus, King of Persia, around 538 B.C. Cyrus had allowed the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple of the LORD, as recorded in Ezra 1:2-4. However, the rebuilding efforts faced opposition from local adversaries, leading to a cessation of the work during the reign of Artaxerxes (Ezra 4:23-24).

Content of the Letter

The letter to King Darius is a response to the renewed efforts to rebuild the Temple, which began under the prophetic encouragement of Haggai and Zechariah (Ezra 5:1-2). The local governors, Tattenai and Shethar-Bozenai, questioned the authority under which the Jews were rebuilding and sent a letter to King Darius to verify the legitimacy of their actions (Ezra 5:6-17).

In their letter, the governors reported the Jews' claim that they were rebuilding the Temple based on a decree from Cyrus. They requested that Darius search the royal archives to confirm the existence of such a decree (Ezra 5:13-17).

Darius' Response

King Darius ordered a search of the archives, and the decree of Cyrus was indeed found in the citadel of Ecbatana (Ezra 6:1-2). The decree confirmed that Cyrus had authorized the rebuilding of the Temple and had even provided for its expenses from the royal treasury (Ezra 6:3-5).

Upon verifying the decree, Darius issued his own decree, instructing Tattenai and his associates not to interfere with the work on the Temple. He further commanded that the expenses for the construction be fully covered by the royal treasury and that the Jewish elders be supported in their efforts (Ezra 6:6-12). Darius' decree also included severe penalties for anyone who would attempt to alter his edict, emphasizing the seriousness with which he regarded the matter.

Theological Significance

The letter to King Darius and his subsequent decree highlight the providential hand of God in the affairs of nations and rulers. Despite opposition, the divine plan for the restoration of the Temple and the reestablishment of proper worship in Jerusalem was fulfilled. This narrative underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people, as He uses even foreign kings to accomplish His purposes.

The successful rebuilding of the Temple, as a result of Darius' decree, is a testament to the fulfillment of prophetic words and the unwavering commitment of the Jewish leaders and community to their faith and heritage. The Temple's completion in 516 B.C. marked a significant milestone in the post-exilic period, restoring the central place of worship and sacrifice in the life of the Jewish people.