Ezra 4:17-23

17The kingH4430 sent an answer to RehumH7348 the chancellor, and ShimshaiH8124 the scribeH5613, and the restH7606 of their companions that dwell in SamariaH8115, and the other places beyond the riverH5103: PeaceH8001, and so forth.

18The letter that ye sent to us has been readH7123 before me distinctly.

19And I gave orders, and searchH1240 has been made, and it has been foundH7912 that this cityH7149 of old time has made insurrection against the kingsH4430, and that rebellion and sedition have been raised therein.

20And there have been mighty kingsH4430 over JerusalemH3390, who have ruled over all beyond the riverH5103; and tributeH4061, tax, and tollH1983 were paid to them.

21NowH3705 give order to makeH7761 these menH1400 to ceaseH989, and that this cityH7149 be not builtH1124, until the order shall be given from me;

22and take heed that ye fail not to do this: whyH4101 should harm grow to the damage of the kingsH4430?

23As soon as the copyH6573 of kingH4430 Artaxerxes' letter was readH7123 before RehumH7348, and ShimshaiH8124 the scribeH5613, and their companions, they went up in haste to JerusalemH3390 to the JewsH3062, and made them ceaseH989 by force and power.