That search may be made in the book of the records of thy 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 they have moved sedition within the same of old time: for which cause was this city destroyed (4:15)

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 (4:16)

[Then] sent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and [to] Shimshai the scribe, and [to] the rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria, and [unto] the rest beyond the river, Peace, and at such a time (4:17)

The letter which ye sent unto us hath been plainly read before me (4:18)

And I commanded, and search hath been made, and it is found that this city of old time hath made insurrection against kings, and [that] rebellion and sedition have been made therein (4:19)

There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all [countries] beyond the river; and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them (4:20)

Give ye now commandment to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not builded, until [another] commandment shall be given from me (4:21)

Take heed now that ye fail not to do this: why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings? (4:22)

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 (4:23)

Then ceased the work of the house of God which [is] at Jerusalem. So it ceased unto the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia (4:24)

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