Ezra 4:20

20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all [the country] beyond the River; and tribute, custom, and toll, was paid unto 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 which ye sent unto us hath been plainly read before me.

19 And I decreed, and search hath been made, and it is found that this city of old time hath made insurrection against kings, and that rebellion and sedition have been made therein.

20 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all [the country] beyond the River; and tribute, custom, and toll, was paid unto them.

21 Make ye now a decree to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not builded, until a decree shall be made by me.

22 And take heed that ye be not slack herein: why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?