Ezra 4:16

16 We make known to the king that if this city is built and the walls are finished, you will have nothing in [the province] Beyond the River."

Ezra 4:16 Meaning and Commentary

Ezra 4:16

We certify the king, that if this city be builded again, and
the walls thereof set up
As it formerly was, and now attempted, as they suggest:

by this means thou shalt have no portion on this side the river;
the river Euphrates; intimating that the Jews would not only shake off his yoke, and refuse to pay tribute themselves, but would seize on all his dominions on that side the river, and annex them to their own.

Ezra 4:16 In-Context

14 Now since we eat the salt of the palace and the dishonor of the king is not proper for us to see, we send and make [this] known to the king,

15 so that it may be investigated in the book of records of your ancestors. You will find in the book of records and learn that this city is a rebellious city, hurtful to kings and provinces, and they have rebelled in its midst from ancient times. Because of that this city was destroyed.

16 We make known to the king that if this city is built and the walls are finished, you will have nothing in [the province] Beyond the River."

17 The king sent a reply: "To Rehum the royal officer, Shimshai the scribe, and the rest of their associates who live in Samaria and the rest [of the province] Beyond the River, greetings. And now

18 the letter that you sent to us has been translated [and] read before me.