Ezra 4:20-22

Living Bible

²⁰ I find, moreover, that there have been some very great kings in Jerusalem who have ruled the entire land beyond the Euphrates River and have received vast tribute, custom, and toll. ²¹ Therefore, I command that these men must stop their work until I have investigated the matter more thoroughly. ²² Do not delay, for we must not permit the situation to get out of control!”