Ezra 4:20

20 There have been mighty kings also over Yerushalayim, who have ruled over all [the country] beyond the River; and tribute, custom, and toll, was paid to 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 you sent to us has been plainly read before me.

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

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

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

22 Take heed that you not be slack herein: why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?