Definition: At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Ezra 5:3. It's a really important part of the story of restoring religious practice in ancient Israel after a period of apostasy (breaking God’s rules). Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Situation: Ezra is speaking to a group of people. Think of them as representatives of a community that had strayed from the ways of the Israelites. They were essentially acting like they weren't following God’s laws anymore. He’s asking why they are building this wall. The wall symbolizes a religious structure – perhaps a temple or a place of worship. The question is, why are they building it? Here's the breakdown of what Ezra says: “At the same time came to them Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and their companions, and said thus unto them, Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?” Let’s unpack each part: "At the same time came..." - This indicates a specific moment in time. Ezra is addressing a gathering of people. "...Tatnai, governor on this side the river, and Shetharboznai, and their companions..." – This refers to a specific leader named Tatnai who was overseeing the area. He was a governor (like a ruler) on a particular riverbank. He had a group of people under his care. "...and said thus unto them..." - Ezra is speaking directly to these people. "...Who hath commanded you to build this house, and to make up this wall?" – This is the crucial part. Ezra is asking why they're building this structure. He’s questioning their motives and purpose. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse is a key moment because it highlights: Rebuilding Trust: Ezra was trying to restore faith and obedience to God after a time of disobedience. The people were broken, and he needed to understand why they were acting that way again. Accountability: He's demanding an explanation for their actions – why are they building a wall (a religious structure) when it seems like they’re not following God's rules? In short, Ezra is asking if the people have regained their commitment to God and are acting in accordance with His laws. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give you some historical context about this event? Discuss the significance of this passage in the Bible?