14
Now because we are salted with the salt of the palace, and it is not just unto us to see the king’s dishonour; therefore, we have sent to make this known unto the king,
15
that search may be made in the book of the records of our fathers; so shalt thou find in the book of the records and know that this city
is a rebellious city and hurtful unto kings and provinces and that from old time they form rebellions in the midst of her, for which cause this city was destroyed.
16
We notify the king that if this city is built
again, and its walls founded, the portion on the other side of the river shall no longer be yours.
17
The king sent this answer unto Rehum, the chancellor, and
to Shimshai, the scribe, and
to the rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria and to the rest of those of the other side of the river and to Cheenet.
18
The letter which you sent unto us has been plainly read before me.
19
And I commanded, 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 in her
20
and that there have been mighty kings in Jerusalem, who have ruled over all
that is beyond the river, and that toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them.
21
Give ye now commandment to cause these men to cease and that this city not be built until
another commandment shall be given from me.
22
Take heed now that ye not fail to do this; why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?
23
Now when the copy of King Artaxerxes’ letter
was read before Rehum, and Shimshai, the scribe, and their companions, they went up in haste to Jerusalem unto the Jews and made them to cease by force and power.
24
Then the work of the house of God which
was at Jerusalem ceased. So it ceased unto the second year of the reign of Darius, king of Persia.