by Rehema Jonathan | 14 August 2023 08:46 am08
The term Tirshatha appears in the Old Testament and refers to a Persian-appointed governor over the province of Judah during the post-exilic period. The word itself is of Persian origin, likely meaning “His Excellency” or “Governor.” It signifies a civil leader who held administrative authority under the larger Persian Empire, which had conquered Babylon and inherited dominion over the Jewish people.
Let’s look at where this term appears in Scripture:
“And the governor said to them that they should not eat of the most holy things till a priest could consult with the Urim and Thummim.”
Here, the word “governor” is translated from Tirshatha. This passage refers to Zerubbabel, though he is not named directly here. Zerubbabel was a descendant of King David (1 Chronicles 3:19) and led the first group of exiles back to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity.
“And the governor said to them that they should not eat of the most holy things till a priest could consult with the Urim and Thummim.”
This verse mirrors Ezra 2:63 and again refers to the same role, showing the consistency of leadership structure during the early restoration of Jerusalem.
“And Nehemiah, who was the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, ‘This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn nor weep.’ For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law.”
In this context, Nehemiah is called the Tirshatha. He was a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I of Persia (Nehemiah 1:11) before being appointed governor of Judah. His leadership focused on rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls and renewing the people’s covenant with God.
“Now those who placed their seal on the document were: Nehemiah the governor, the son of Hacaliah, and Zedekiah…”
Again, Nehemiah is explicitly referred to as the Tirshatha, underscoring his role in both civil governance and spiritual reform.
This passage details Nehemiah’s integrity and generosity as governor, choosing not to take the usual food allowance from the people, unlike previous governors.
“Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah… I did not eat the governor’s provisions…” (Nehemiah 5:14–15)
Theological Significance
The roles of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah as Tirshatha reflect God’s sovereign use of both spiritual and political leaders in the restoration of Israel. Although neither were priests, they played crucial roles in rebuilding the nation both physically (walls, temple) and spiritually (renewing the law, worship, and covenant).
Their governance under Persian authority shows how God’s plans can work even through foreign empires, fulfilling prophecies such as those in Isaiah 44–45, where God foretold using Cyrus to aid Israel’s return.
A Personal Reflection: Are You Ready for Christ’s Return?
In the same way God used leaders like Zerubbabel and Nehemiah to prepare His people for restoration, Jesus Christ is coming again to establish His eternal kingdom. Are you ready?
The Bible warns us to be spiritually prepared:
“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…” (Acts 3:19, NKJV)
“He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16, NKJV)
“Behold, I am coming quickly!” (Revelation 22:12, NKJV)
Now is the time to repent, believe in the gospel, and receive the Holy Spirit.
If you are ready to surrender your life to Christ, follow this guide to pray in faith >>> [PRAYER OF REPENTANCE]
Shalom Peace be with you.
Please share this message with others and encourage them to seek the Lord while He may be found (Isaiah 55:6).
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