The Complete Jewish Bible CJB
New International Version NIV
17 The king sent this answer: "To Rechum the district governor, Shimshai the secretary, their other colleagues living in Shomron, and the rest beyond the River: "Shalom!
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 you sent us has now been translated for me.
18
The letter you sent us has been read and translated in my presence.
19 I ordered a search made, and it was found that this city has a long history of revolt against kings, that rebellion and sedition have been fostered there;
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 also that there have been powerful kings over Yerushalayim who ruled all the territory beyond the River; and tribute, taxes and tolls were paid to them.
20
Jerusalem has had powerful kings ruling over the whole of Trans-Euphrates, and taxes, tribute and duty were paid to them.
21 "So now, order that these men stop work and that this city not be rebuilt until I order it.
21
Now issue an order to these men to stop work, so that this city will not be rebuilt until I so order.
22 Take care not to neglect your duty; otherwise the harm may increase, to the damage of the king."
22
Be careful not to neglect this matter. Why let this threat grow, to the detriment of the royal interests?
Complete Jewish Bible Copyright 1998 by David H. Stern. Published by Jewish New Testament Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.