Bible Explorer · Event · c. 535–520 BC

Adversaries halt the rebuilding of the temple and city

Adversaries of Judah, led by Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe, send an official letter to King Artaxerxes accusing the Jews of building a rebellious city; a royal decree commands the work to cease by force until the second year of King Darius.

Chronology and Dating

Date: c. 535–520 BC · Note: Prolonged imperial halt spanning Persian reigns before resuming under Darius I.

Scripture References

Ezra 4:6-24

Biblical Figures Involved

Event Locations

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