Background:
Tattenai, the governor of the province Beyond the River during the reign of King Darius of Persia, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Ezra. His role becomes significant in the context of the rebuilding of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, a project that had been initiated under the decree of Cyrus the Great but faced opposition and delays.

Biblical Account:
The account of Tattenai's involvement is found in Ezra 5:3-17. As the Jews resumed the construction of the temple, Tattenai, along with Shethar-Bozenai and their associates, approached the Jewish leaders to inquire about the authority under which they were rebuilding the temple. This inquiry was not merely a local concern but had implications for the broader Persian administration, as the rebuilding of the temple was a significant undertaking with potential political ramifications.

The Letter:
Tattenai's letter to King Darius is a formal report that seeks clarification on the legitimacy of the temple reconstruction. The letter is a model of bureaucratic procedure, reflecting the administrative practices of the Persian Empire. It begins with a respectful address to King Darius, acknowledging his authority and seeking his guidance.

In the letter, Tattenai reports the activities in Jerusalem, noting the progress of the construction and the claims of the Jewish elders. The Jews assert that they are rebuilding the temple based on a decree issued by Cyrus the Great, which had authorized the reconstruction and provided for the return of the temple vessels. Tattenai's letter includes a request for the king to verify this claim by searching the royal archives to confirm the existence of such a decree.

Scriptural Reference:
Ezra 5:6-17 provides the text of Tattenai's letter. It begins with the introduction of the officials involved and proceeds to describe the situation in Jerusalem. The letter states: "This is the copy of the letter that Tattenai, the governor of the region west of the Euphrates, and Shethar-Bozenai and their associates, the officials of that region, sent to King Darius. They sent him a report, which read as follows: 'To King Darius: All peace. Be it known to the king that we went to the province of Judah, to the house of the great God. The people are rebuilding it with large stones, and setting the beams in the walls. The work is being carried out diligently and is prospering in their hands.'"

Significance:
Tattenai's letter is significant for several reasons. It highlights the challenges faced by the Jewish community in re-establishing their religious and cultural identity after the Babylonian exile. The letter also underscores the importance of legal and royal authorization in the Persian Empire, reflecting the complex interplay between local governance and imperial oversight.

Furthermore, the letter sets the stage for King Darius's response, which ultimately supports the Jewish efforts by confirming the decree of Cyrus and instructing Tattenai and his associates not to interfere with the construction. This outcome is seen as a divine intervention, affirming God's providential care for His people and the fulfillment of His promises regarding the restoration of the temple.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, Tattenai's letter and the subsequent royal decree illustrate the sovereignty of God in using even foreign rulers and officials to accomplish His purposes. The narrative demonstrates that God's plans cannot be thwarted by human opposition, and His faithfulness to His covenant people is unwavering. The rebuilding of the temple serves as a symbol of hope and renewal, pointing to the ultimate restoration that God promises to His people.