Ezra 4:16

16 We inform the king that, if this city be built, and the walls finished, by this means you shall have no portion beyond the 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 Now because we eat the salt of the palace, and it is not appropriate for us to see the king's dishonor, therefore have we sent and informed the king;

15 that search may be made in the book of the records of your fathers: so shall you find in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful to kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time; for which cause was this city laid waste.

16 We inform the king that, if this city be built, and the walls finished, by this means you shall have no portion beyond the River.

17 [Then] sent the king an answer to Rechum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the Sofer, and to the rest of their companions who dwell in Shomron, and in the rest [of the country] beyond the River: Shalom, and so forth.

18 The letter which you sent to us has been plainly read before me.