Ezra 4:16
What does Ezra 4:16 mean?
A plain-English look at Ezra 4:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Ezra 4:16 means
The letter concludes its case by predicting that if Jerusalem is rebuilt and walled, the king will have “no portion beyond the River”—no effective control west of the Euphrates. This is maximal alarmism: a single city’s renewal will unravel imperial authority across a vast region. The strategy is to frame Jerusalem as the keystone of imperial stability, so that any tolerance appears reckless. The aim is to prompt a swift, harsh decree. Their fear claims to protect the king’s interests but conveniently aligns with their desire to suppress a rival center of identity and worship.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000We certify the king that, if this city be builded, and the walls finished, by this means thou shalt have no portion beyond the River.
KJV
King James Version · 1611We certify the king that, if this city be builded again, and the walls thereof set up, by this means thou shalt have no portion on this side the river.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901We certify the king that, if this city be builded, and the walls finished, by this means thou shalt have no portion beyond the River.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949We give you word, that if the building of this town and its walls is made complete, there will be an end of your power in the country across the river.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862We are making known to the king that, if this city be builded and the walls finished, by this means a portion beyond the river thou hast none.'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752We certify the king, that if this city be built, and the walls thereof repaired, thou shalt have no possession on this side of the river.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890We inform the king that if this city be built and its walls be completed, by this means thou shalt have no portion on this side the river.
Context
Following the appeal to archival research (v. 15), verse 16 intensifies the predicted consequences if the king fails to act. The argument has peaked. The narrative now turns to the king’s response in verses 17–22. The structure—petition followed by royal answer—shows how political processes can be marshaled against God’s people, resulting in tangible setbacks to the rebuilding work.
v.15that search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so shalt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful unto kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time; for which cause was this city laid waste.
v.16This passage
v.17Thensent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria, and in the rest of the country beyond the River: Peace, and so forth.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 Kings 4:24
For he had dominion over all the region on this side the River, from Tiphsah even to Gaza, over all the kings on this side the River: and he had peace on all sides round about him.
- Ezra 4:20
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.
- 2 Samuel 8:3
David smote also Hadadezer the son of Rehob, king of Zobah, as he went to recover his dominion at the River.