20. There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all the country beyond the River; and tribute, custom, and toll, was paid unto them.
21. Make ye now a decree to cause these men to cease, and that this city be not builded, until a decree shall be made by me.
22. And take heed that ye be not slack herein: why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?
23. Then when the copy of king Artaxerxes’ letter was read before Rehum, and Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went in haste to Jerusalem unto the Jews, and made them to cease by force and power.
24. Then ceased the work of the house of God which is at Jerusalem; and it ceased until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia.