Ezra 4:13-15

Evangelical Heritage Version

¹³ Now let it be known to the King that if that city is rebuilt and the walls are completed, then taxes, tribute, and revenue will not be paid, and kings certainly will be harmed.

¹⁴ Now because we are duty-bound by an oath to the King^[a] and do not wish to see the King dishonored, for that reason we are sending this letter to inform the King, ¹⁵ so that a search may be made in the book containing the memoranda of your predecessors. In this book of memoranda you will discover and come to know that this city is a rebellious city, harmful to kings and provinces, producing rebellions within it from days of old. For this reason that city was destroyed.