Ezra 4:16

Verse

We advise the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are restored, you will have no dominion west of the Euphrates.

American Standard Version (1901)

We certify the king that, if this city be builded, and the walls finished, by this means thou shalt have no portion beyond the River.

Bible in Basic English

We give you word, that if the building of this town and its walls is made complete, there will be an end of your power in the country across the river.

Douay-Rheims 1899

We certify the king, that if this city be built, and the walls thereof repaired, thou shalt have no possession on this side of the river.

Free Bible Version

We wish to inform Your Majesty that if this city is rebuilt and the walls completed, you will lose this province west of the Euphrates.

Geneva Bible 1599

Wee certifie the King therefore, that if this citie be buylded, and the foundation of the walles layd, by this meanes the portion beyonde the Riuer shall not be thine.

King James (Authorized) Version

We certify the king that, if this city be builded again, and the walls thereof set up, by this means thou shalt have no portion on this side the river.

Translation for Translators

We want you to know that if they rebuild this city and finish building its walls, you will no longer be able to control/rule the people in this province west of the Euphrates River.”

Unlocked Literal Bible

We are informing the king that if this city and wall are built, then there will be nothing remaining for you in the Province Beyond the River.”

Noah Webster Bible

We certify the king that, if this city shall be built again , and its walls set up, by this means thou wilt have no portion on this side of the river.

World English Bible

We inform the king that if this city is built and the walls finished, then you will have no possession beyond the River.

Young's Literal Translation

We are making known to the king that, if this city be builded and the walls finished, by this means a portion beyond the river thou hast none.'

Context

Opposition under Xerxes and Artaxerxes

¹⁵that a search should be made of the record books of your fathers. In these books you will discover and verify that the city is a rebellious city, harmful to kings and provinces, inciting sedition from ancient times. That is why this city was destroyed.¹⁶We advise the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are restored, you will have no dominion west of the Euphrates.

Summary

This verse reflects the opposition faced by the Israelites as they sought to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. The adversaries of Judah and Benjamin wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes, falsely accusing the Jews of rebellion and insurrection. Their intention was to hinder the progress of the temple reconstruction and undermine the authority of the Israelites. Despite these challenges, the Israelites persevered in their work, demonstrating resilience and faith in God's promises amidst opposition and adversity.

Commentary

John Gill

John Gill Bible Commentary

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, Ezr 4:9. Peace, and at such a time: that is, all health and prosperity, &c.