Ezra 4:16

16 We want you to know that this city shouldn't be rebuilt. Its walls shouldn't be made like new again. If that happens, you won't have anything left west of the Euphrates River.

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 We owe a lot to you. We don't want to see dishonor brought on you. So we're sending this letter to tell you what is going on.

15 Then you can have a search made in the official records. Have someone check the records of the kings who ruled before you. If you do, you will find out that Jerusalem is an evil city. It causes trouble for kings and countries. For a long time the city has refused to let anyone rule over it. That's why it was destroyed.

16 We want you to know that this city shouldn't be rebuilt. Its walls shouldn't be made like new again. If that happens, you won't have anything left west of the Euphrates River.

17 The king replied, I am writing this letter to Rehum, the commanding officer. I am also writing it to Shimshai, the secretary. And I am writing it to your friends who are living in Samaria and in other places west of the Euphrates River. I give you my greetings.

18 The letter you sent us has been read to me. It has been explained to me in my language.