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19 And I commanded and search has been made, and it is found that this city of old times has made insurrections against kings and that rebellion and sedition have been made in it. 20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all countries beyond the River; and they thought nothing of the kings of the old time. 21 Now therefore make a decree causing these men to cease, and that this city should not be built until a commandment shall be given by me. 22 Take heed now that you fail not to do this, lest the damage should increase to the hurt of the king. 23 Now when the copy of King Artakhshisht's letter came, they read it before Arkhom; then the chancellor and Shamshai the scribe and their companions went in haste to Jerusalem against the Jews, and by a strong army made them cease building. 24 Then ceased the work of the house of God which is in Jerusalem. And it ceased until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia. Ezra 4:19-24, Lamsa Bible. Public domain.
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