Ezra 4:20

20 Mighty kings have ruled over Jerusalem, [governing] all [the province] Beyond the River, to whom tribute, duty, and tax has been given.

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 you sent to us has been translated [and] read before me.

19 And {I issued} a decree, and they searched and found that this city from ancient days revolted against kings, and rebellion and sedition has been made in it.

20 Mighty kings have ruled over Jerusalem, [governing] all [the province] Beyond the River, to whom tribute, duty, and tax has been given.

21 So now, issue forth a decree that these men stop and this city not be built, until a decree is issued from me.

22 And be careful not to be negligent on this matter. Why should damage grow to hurt kings?"