Ezra 4:11-13

Living Bible

¹¹ Here is the text of the letter they sent to King Artaxerxes:

“Sir: Greetings from your loyal subjects west of the Euphrates River. ¹² Please be informed that the Jews sent to Jerusalem from Babylon are rebuilding this historically rebellious and evil city; they have already rebuilt its walls and have repaired the foundations of the Temple. ¹³ But we wish you to know that if this city is rebuilt, it will be much to your disadvantage, for the Jews will then refuse to pay their taxes to you.