Ezra 4:20

20 And there have been mighty kings over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all beyond the river; and tribute, tax, and toll were paid to them.

Ezra 4:20 Meaning and Commentary

Ezra 4:20

There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have
ruled over all countries beyond the river
As David and Solomon; and the account of these they had in their records, see ( 2 Samuel 8:1 ) ( 1 Kings 4:21 1 Kings 4:24 )

and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them;
as appears from the places referred to; and this served to strengthen the insinuation made to the king, that if these people were suffered to go on building, he would lose his tribute and taxes in those parts.

Ezra 4:20 In-Context

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

19 And I gave orders, and search has been made, and it has been found that this city of old time has made insurrection against the kings, and that rebellion and sedition have been raised therein.

20 And there have been mighty kings over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all beyond the river; and tribute, tax, and toll were paid to them.

21 Now give order to make these men to cease, and that this city be not built, until the order shall be given from me;

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