The Adversaries' Letter is a significant document mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Ezra. This letter is a key element in the narrative of the opposition faced by the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. The letter is a testament to the challenges and hostilities encountered by the Israelites during this period of restoration.

Biblical Context

The Adversaries' Letter is found in Ezra 4:6-16. The historical context of this letter is during the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia. The Jewish exiles, having returned from Babylonian captivity, were in the process of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. This effort was met with resistance from the local inhabitants, who were described as adversaries of Judah and Benjamin.

Content of the Letter

The letter was written by the adversaries of the Jews, who were primarily the people of the surrounding regions, including the Samaritans. These adversaries sought to halt the reconstruction efforts by appealing to the Persian king. The letter accused the Jews of rebuilding a rebellious and wicked city, suggesting that if the city were rebuilt and its walls restored, the Jews would no longer pay tribute, taxes, or tolls, thereby diminishing the royal revenue.

Ezra 4:12-13 states: "Let it be known to the king that the Jews who came up from you have returned to us at Jerusalem. They are rebuilding that rebellious and wicked city, restoring its walls and repairing its foundations. Let it now be known to the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are restored, they will no longer pay tribute, taxes, or tolls, and the royal revenue will suffer."

Purpose and Impact

The purpose of the Adversaries' Letter was to incite fear and suspicion in the heart of King Artaxerxes, thereby persuading him to issue a decree to stop the construction. The adversaries were motivated by a desire to maintain their own power and influence in the region, as well as a deep-seated animosity towards the Jewish people.

The impact of the letter was significant. King Artaxerxes responded by ordering the cessation of the building project, as recorded in Ezra 4:21 : "Now issue an order for these men to stop work, so that this city will not be rebuilt until I so order." This decree effectively halted the reconstruction efforts, causing a delay in the completion of the temple.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the Adversaries' Letter highlights the persistent opposition faced by God's people throughout history. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that accompanies the fulfillment of God's promises. Despite the temporary setback caused by the letter, the narrative of Ezra ultimately demonstrates God's sovereignty and faithfulness, as the temple was eventually completed under the leadership of Zerubbabel and the prophetic encouragement of Haggai and Zechariah.

The Adversaries' Letter is a poignant example of how external opposition can challenge the work of God, yet it also underscores the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of adversity.