Ezra 4:16

16 We therefore declare to the king, that, if that city be built, and its walls be set up, thou shalt not have peace.

Ezra 4:16 Meaning and Commentary

Ezra 4:16

We certify the king, that if this city be builded again, and
the walls thereof set up
As it formerly was, and now attempted, as they suggest:

by this means thou shalt have no portion on this side the river;
the river Euphrates; intimating that the Jews would not only shake off his yoke, and refuse to pay tribute themselves, but would seize on all his dominions on that side the river, and annex them to their own.

Ezra 4:16 In-Context

14 And it is not lawful for us to see the dishonour of the king: therefore have we sent and made known to the king;

15 That examination may be made in thy fathers' book of record; and thou shalt find, and thou shalt know that city rebellious, and does harm to kings and countries, and there are in the midst of it from very old time refuges for slaves: therefore this city has been made desolate.

16 We therefore declare to the king, that, if that city be built, and its walls be set up, thou shalt not have peace.

17 Then the king sent to Reum the chancellor, and Sampsa the scribe, and the rest of their fellow-servants who dwelt in Samaria, and the rest beyond the river, Peace; and he says,

18 The tribute-gatherer whom ye sent to us, has been called before me.