Bible Figure
Tattenai
Biblical Persian governor (Book of Ezra)
Tattenai was the Persian governor of the province Beyond the River who investigated the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple during Darius's reign.
Biography
Ezra 5-6 describes Tattenai and other officials questioning the Jews about authority for rebuilding the Temple. Rather than simply stopping the work, they sent Darius a report asking that the royal archives be searched. Cyrus's decree was found, and Darius ordered Tattenai not to interfere and even to provide financial support for the project from royal revenues.
Biblical Significance
Tattenai's investigation unexpectedly became part of God's providential protection of the Temple project, resulting in explicit imperial confirmation and support for the rebuilding.