Ezra 4:17

17 The emperor sent this answer: "To Rehum, the governor, to Shimshai, secretary of the province, and to their associates who live in Samaria and in the rest of West-of-Euphrates, greetings.

Ezra 4:17 Meaning and Commentary

Ezra 4:17

Then sent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and to
Shimshai the scribe
This affair, upon examination, being found to be of importance, the king of Persia thought fit to send an answer to the above letter, which was doing them an honour, and gave them the power and authority they wished to have:

and to the rest of their companions that dwelt in Samaria;
in the kingdom, province, and cities of Samaria:

and unto the rest beyond the river;
the river Euphrates, the rest of the nations before mentioned, ( Ezra 4:9 Ezra 4:10 ) .

Peace, and at such a time:
that is, all health and prosperity

Ezra 4:17 In-Context

15 that you order a search to be made in the records your ancestors kept. If you do, you will discover that this city has always been rebellious and that from ancient times it has given trouble to kings and to rulers of provinces. Its people have always been hard to govern. This is why the city was destroyed.

16 We therefore are convinced that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are completed, Your Majesty will no longer be able to control West-of-Euphrates Province."

17 The emperor sent this answer: "To Rehum, the governor, to Shimshai, secretary of the province, and to their associates who live in Samaria and in the rest of West-of-Euphrates, greetings.

18 "The letter which you sent has been translated and read to me.

19 I gave orders for an investigation to be made, and it has indeed been found that from ancient times Jerusalem has revolted against royal authority and that it has been full of rebels and troublemakers.