|
19 I issued a decree, and a search was conducted. It was discovered that this city has revolted against kings from ancient times, engaging in rebellion and sedition. 20 And mighty kings have ruled over Jerusalem (city of peace) and exercised authority over the whole region west of the Euphrates; and tribute, duty, and toll were paid to them. 21 Now, therefore, issue an order for these men to stop, so that this city will not be rebuilt until I so order. 22 See that you do not neglect this matter. Why allow this threat to increase and the royal interests to suffer? 23 When the text of the letter from King Artaxerxes (I will make the spoiled to boil) was read to Rehum (compassion), Shimshai (sunny) the scribe, and their associates, they went immediately to the Jews in Jerusalem (city of peace) and forcibly stopped them. 24 Thus the construction of the house of God in Jerusalem (city of peace) ceased, and it remained at a standstill until the second year of the reign of Darius (lord) king of Persia (pure / splendid). Ezra 4:19-24, Berean Annotated Bible. Public domain.
|
