Several priests (and Levites) returned from exile to Jerusalem under the leadership of Sheshbazzar and Ezra (Ezra 2:36–40; Ezra 8:24). Due to their work in the temple (rebuilt, Ezra 6:14–15) and in teaching, these priests attained a measure of stature in the community as recognized leaders.
16 And the officials did not know where I had gone or what I was doing, and I had not yet told the Jews, the priests, the nobles, the officials, and the rest who were to do the work.