Ezra 4:18-20

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

¹⁸ The letter which you sent to us has been plainly read before me.

¹⁹ I commanded and search has been made, and it is found that this city [Jerusalem] of old time has made insurrection 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 [west of] the [Euphrates] River, and tribute, custom, and toll were paid to them.