Ezra 4:16

Easy To Read Version

King Artaxerxes, we wish to inform you that if this city and its walls are built again, you will lose control of the area west of the Euphrates River.

Cross References

2 Samuel 8:3

Hadadezer son of Rehob was king of Zobah. David defeated Hadadezer when David went to take control [54] of the area near the Euphrates River.

1 Kings 4:24

Solomon ruled over all the countries west of the Euphrates River. This was the land from Tiphsah to Gaza. And Solomon had peace on all sides of his kingdom.

Ezra 4:15

King Artaxerxes, we suggest that you search the writings of the kings that ruled before you. You will see in those writings that Jerusalem always rebelled against other kings. It has caused much trouble for other kings and nations. Many rebellions have started in this city since ancient times! That is why Jerusalem was destroyed!

Ezra 4:17

Then King Artaxerxes {\cf2\super [22]} sent this answer:

Ezra 4:20

Jerusalem has had powerful kings ruling over it and over the whole area west of the Euphrates River. Taxes and money to honor kings, and duty taxes have been paid to those kings.