17 ¶ The King sent an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions that dwelt in Samaria, and unto the other beyond the River, [a]Shelam and [b]Cheeth.

18 ¶ The letter which ye sent unto us, hath been openly read before me,

19 And I have commanded and they have searched, and found, that this city of old time hath made insurrection against kings, and hath rebelled, and rebellion hath been committed therein.

20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all beyond the River, and toll, tribute and custom was given unto them.

21 Make ye now a decree that those men may cease, and that the city be not built, till I have given another commandment.

22 Take heed now that ye fail not to do this: why should damage grow to hurt the king?

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Ezra 4:17 Some read for Shalom, salutation or greeting.
  2. Ezra 4:17 Called also Cheeneth, as verse 11.

Bible Gateway Recommends