New Revised Standard NRS
New International Version NIV
17 The king sent an answer: "To Rehum the royal deputy and Shimshai the scribe and the rest of their associates who live in Samaria and in the rest of the province Beyond the River, greeting. And now
17
The king sent this reply: To Rehum the commanding officer, Shimshai the secretary and the rest of their associates living in Samaria and elsewhere in Trans-Euphrates: Greetings.
18 the letter that you sent to us has been read in translation before me.
18
The letter you sent us has been read and translated in my presence.
19 So I made a decree, and someone searched and discovered that this city has risen against kings from long ago, and that rebellion and sedition have been made in it.
19
I issued an order and a search was made, and it was found that this city has a long history of revolt against kings and has been a place of rebellion and sedition.
20 Jerusalem has had mighty kings who ruled over the whole province Beyond the River, to whom tribute, custom, and toll were paid.
20
Jerusalem has had powerful kings ruling over the whole of Trans-Euphrates, and taxes, tribute and duty were paid to them.
21 Therefore issue an order that these people be made to cease, and that this city not be rebuilt, until I make a decree.
21
Now issue an order to these men to stop work, so that this city will not be rebuilt until I so order.
22 Moreover, take care not to be slack in this matter; why should damage grow to the hurt of the king?"
22
Be careful not to neglect this matter. Why let this threat grow, to the detriment of the royal interests?
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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