Bible Dictionary
Tatnai
Tatnai was the Persian governor of the region west of the Euphrates during the reign of Darius. He questioned the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s temple but ultimately obeyed the king’s decree supporting the work.
Definition
Tatnai was the Persian satrap or governor of the province west of the Euphrates during the reign of Darius Hystaspes. His title, pehah, was used for provincial governors and could also be translated captain or deputy.
Biblical Usage
Tatnai questioned the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s temple and reported the matter to Darius. When the king commanded that the work proceed, Tatnai obeyed and assisted the Jews.
Historical Background
Tatnai governed the extensive territory west of the Euphrates. He is associated with the year about 520 B.C., and his name is thought to be Persian.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Gift, a Persian governor (Heb. pehah, i.e., “satrap;” modern “pasha”) “on this side the river”, i.e., of the whole tract on the west of the Euphrates. This Hebrew title pehah is given to governors of provinces generally. It is given to Nehemiah (5:14) and to Zerubbabel (Hag. 1:1). It is sometimes translated “captain” (1 Kings 20:24; Dan. 3:2, 3), sometimes also “deputy” (Esther 8:9; 9:3). With others, Tatnai opposed the rebuilding of the temple (Ezra 5:6); but at the command of Darius, he assisted the Jews (6:1-13).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(gift), satrap of the province west of the Euphrates in the time of Darius Hystaspes. (Ezra 5:3,6; 6:6,13) (B.C. 520.) The name is thought to be Persian.