Background and Context:
The opposition from Tattenai and others is a significant event in the post-exilic period of Israel's history, specifically during the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This period is chronicled in the Book of Ezra, which details the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon under the decree of Cyrus the Great and the subsequent challenges they faced in restoring their religious and communal life.

Key Figures:
· Tattenai: The governor of the province "beyond the River" (Trans-Euphrates), which included the region of Judah. Tattenai played a central role in the opposition to the rebuilding efforts.
· Shethar-bozenai: An associate of Tattenai, mentioned as part of the opposition.
· Zerubbabel and Jeshua: Leaders of the Jewish community in Jerusalem, spearheading the rebuilding of the Temple.

Biblical Account:
The account of the opposition is found in Ezra 5 and 6. After the initial return of the exiles and the laying of the Temple's foundation, work on the Temple ceased due to local opposition and discouragement. It was not until the prophetic ministries of Haggai and Zechariah that the rebuilding efforts were renewed.

Ezra 5:3-5 states: "At that time Tattenai, governor of the region west of the Euphrates, and Shethar-bozenai and their associates came to them and asked, 'Who gave you the authority to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?' They also asked, 'What are the names of the men who are constructing this building?' But the eye of their God was on the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received."

Nature of the Opposition:
The opposition from Tattenai and his associates was primarily administrative and political. They questioned the authority under which the Jews were rebuilding the Temple, likely concerned about the potential for rebellion or loss of control over the region. Their inquiry was formal and involved sending a letter to King Darius to verify the legitimacy of the Jewish claims.

Response and Resolution:
The Jewish leaders responded by citing the decree of Cyrus, which authorized the rebuilding of the Temple. Tattenai's letter to Darius included this information, and upon investigation, Darius found the decree to be valid. In Ezra 6:7-8 , Darius commands: "Leave this work on the house of God alone. Let the governor of the Jews and the Jewish elders rebuild this house of God on its original site. Furthermore, I hereby decree what you are to do for these elders of the Jews in the construction of this house of God: The expenses are to be fully paid to these men from the royal treasury, from the revenues of Trans-Euphrates, so that the work will not stop."

Significance:
The opposition from Tattenai and others highlights the challenges faced by the Jewish community in re-establishing their religious practices and identity. It underscores the providence and sovereignty of God in ensuring the continuation of His purposes despite human opposition. The resolution of this conflict through the support of a foreign king also illustrates the theme of God's control over the affairs of nations and rulers, as seen throughout the biblical narrative.

Theological Implications:
This episode serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God to His promises and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's people facing opposition and the ultimate triumph of His will. The involvement of prophetic voices like Haggai and Zechariah emphasizes the role of divine guidance and encouragement in overcoming obstacles to fulfill God's purposes.