Ezra 4:20

KJV

There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all [countries] beyond the river; and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them.

KJV (with Strong's)

There have been {H1934} mighty {H8624} kings {H4430} also over {H5922} Jerusalem {H3390}, which have ruled {H7990} over all {H3606} countries beyond {H5675} the river {H5103}; and toll {H4061}, tribute {H1093}, and custom {H1983}, was paid {H3052} unto them.

Complete Jewish Bible

also that there have been powerful kings over Yerushalayim who ruled all the territory beyond the River; and tribute, taxes and tolls were paid to them.

Berean Standard Bible

And mighty kings have ruled over Jerusalem and exercised authority over the whole region west of the Euphrates; and tribute, duty, and toll were paid to them.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezra 4:20 captures a pivotal moment in the post-exilic rebuilding of Jerusalem, revealing the manipulative tactics employed by adversaries to halt the work. In a letter to King Artaxerxes, Persian officials exaggerated Jerusalem's past power and its potential threat to imperial revenue, arguing that the city's restoration would lead to a cessation of vital "toll, tribute, and custom" payments. This verse highlights the economic and political dimensions of the opposition faced by the returning Jewish exiles, designed to appeal directly to the king's self-interest and portray the rebuilding efforts as a dangerous act of rebellion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezra 4:20 is embedded within a crucial section of Ezra (specifically [Ezra 4:6-23](/ezra/4-6 "Ezra 4:6-23 - Opposition to Rebuilding")) that details the sustained opposition to the rebuilding of the temple and city walls in Jerusalem. Following the decree of King Cyrus allowing the Jews to return and commence reconstruction (as recorded in [Ezra 1:1-4](/ezra/1-1 "Ezra 1:1-4 - Cyrus's Decree")), local adversaries, primarily Samaritans and other peoples settled in the region, actively sought to frustrate these efforts. The immediate context of verse 20 is a letter sent by these officials, including Rehum the commanding officer and Shimshai the scribe, to King Artaxerxes (found in [Ezra 4:11-16](/ezra/4-11 "Ezra 4:11-16 - The Accusers' Letter to Artaxerxes")). Their argument centers on portraying Jerusalem as a historically rebellious city that, if rebuilt, would once again defy imperial authority and withhold taxes, thereby undermining the king's dominion over the Trans-Euphrates province. Verse 20 serves as a key piece of their persuasive rhetoric, designed to instill fear and provoke a royal decree to cease the construction.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Ezra 4 occur during the Persian Empire's rule, specifically during the reign of Artaxerxes I (465-424 BC). The "countries beyond the river" refers to the satrapy of Abar-nahara (Trans-Euphrates), a vital administrative and revenue-generating province for the Persian Empire. Jerusalem, though diminished, was strategically located within this region. The Persian administrative system relied heavily on a robust taxation structure, including various forms of levies, to maintain its vast empire. Local officials, often appointed by the king, were responsible for collecting these taxes and ensuring regional stability. The adversaries' appeal to Artaxerxes was culturally astute; any perceived threat to imperial control or revenue was taken very seriously by Persian monarchs, who viewed such challenges as direct affronts to their authority and a potential precursor to rebellion. The historical memory of Jerusalem's past independence and its occasional revolts against empires (like Babylon) provided a plausible, albeit exaggerated, foundation for the accusers' claims.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes. Firstly, it highlights the **persistent opposition to God's redemptive work**. The rebuilding of Jerusalem and its temple was central to God's plan for the restoration of His people, yet it faced relentless human resistance, often cloaked in political and economic pretexts. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **political manipulation and propaganda**. The accusers did not simply state facts but engaged in rhetorical exaggeration and selective historical recounting to achieve their desired outcome—the cessation of the rebuilding. They appealed to the king's self-interest, framing the Jews' efforts as a direct economic threat. Thirdly, it reveals the **vulnerability of God's people to worldly power structures** and the need for divine intervention. Despite the clear divine mandate for the rebuilding, the work could be halted by a human decree, demonstrating the practical challenges faced by the exiles. This echoes earlier themes of Israel's past glory under kings like Solomon, whose dominion extended "over all the kingdoms from the River to the land of the Philistines, as far as the border of Egypt" ([1 Kings 4:21](/1_kings/4-21 "1 Kings 4:21 - Solomon's Dominion")), which the accusers likely twisted to their advantage. Ultimately, this opposition, though initially successful, did not ultimately thwart God's sovereign plan, a theme of divine faithfulness that runs throughout Ezra and Nehemiah, often requiring fervent prayer and vigilance ([Nehemiah 4:9](/nehemiah/4-9 "Nehemiah 4:9 - Prayer and Vigilance")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Toll (Aramaic, _midda'_):** This term generally refers to a land tax or property tax, a direct levy on the inhabitants or their possessions. It signifies a fixed payment based on assessment, often tied to agricultural produce or land ownership. Its mention implies that the accusers were warning of a loss of regular, predictable revenue from the Jewish population and potentially from the wider region if Jerusalem became a center of resistance.
* **Tribute (Aramaic, _belo'_):** This word denotes a tax on commodities or persons, often an excise duty or a poll tax. It could be a tax on goods traded, or a per capita tax levied on individuals. Its inclusion suggests a broader economic impact beyond just land, touching on commercial activity and the general populace, indicating a comprehensive financial threat.
* **Custom (Aramaic, _halak'_):** This term refers to a road tax or duty on goods passing through certain checkpoints, akin to modern customs duties or tariffs. It implies revenue generated from trade routes and commercial traffic. By listing this, the accusers emphasized that a strong, independent Jerusalem could disrupt the flow of goods and associated revenues, further demonstrating the city's potential to undermine the empire's economic infrastructure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem":** This clause serves as the historical premise for the accusers' argument. It is an appeal to the past, reminding King Artaxerxes that Jerusalem was not merely a provincial town but had once been the seat of powerful monarchs (like David and Solomon). While factually true, the implication here is that Jerusalem inherently possesses a rebellious spirit and a capacity for significant power that could challenge the Persian Empire, thus framing the current rebuilding efforts as a dangerous resurgence of this historical threat.
* **"which have ruled over all [countries] beyond the river":** This expands on the previous point, exaggerating Jerusalem's historical dominion to encompass the entire Trans-Euphrates satrapy. While David and Solomon did exert significant regional influence, the claim that they "ruled over all countries beyond the river" in the same manner as the Persian king was a deliberate overstatement. Its purpose was to paint a picture of Jerusalem as a former imperial capital, implying that its resurgence would directly challenge Artaxerxes's control over this vital province and potentially lead to a loss of territory and authority.
* **"and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them":** This is the financial consequence and the core of the accusers' economic argument. By stating that these specific forms of taxation were once paid *to* Jerusalem's kings, they imply that a rebuilt Jerusalem would demand such payments *from* the region, thereby diverting revenue from the Persian treasury. This directly appeals to the king's self-interest, warning of a significant and tangible financial loss if the rebuilding is allowed to continue, making the threat concrete and immediate.

#### Literary Devices
The language of Ezra 4:20, as presented by the adversaries, is rich in **Propaganda** and **Rhetorical Appeal to Self-Interest**. The accusers employ **Hyperbole** by exaggerating Jerusalem's past dominion ("all [countries] beyond the river") to inflate the perceived threat. This overstatement is not a factual historical account but a strategic manipulation of history designed to instill fear and suspicion in King Artaxerxes. Their argument is a classic example of **Fear-Mongering**, suggesting that a rebuilt Jerusalem would inevitably become a center of rebellion, leading to significant financial losses for the empire. By specifically listing "toll, tribute, and custom," they make a direct and compelling **Appeal to the King's Financial Interests**, demonstrating how the rebuilding would directly impact his treasury. This calculated use of language aims to persuade the king by presenting a worst-case scenario that directly threatens his power and wealth, rather than relying on objective truth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezra 4:20 serves as a stark reminder that God's work in the world often faces formidable opposition, not always from overt spiritual wickedness, but frequently from seemingly legitimate political or economic concerns. The adversaries' strategy here reflects a recurring biblical pattern where human self-interest, fear, and desire for control clash with divine purposes. This verse highlights the spiritual battle underlying human events; what appears to be a dispute over taxes and political stability is, at its root, an attempt to frustrate God's plan for the restoration of His people and the re-establishment of His worship in Jerusalem. However, the ultimate theological truth is that no human scheme, however cunning or powerful, can ultimately thwart God's sovereign will.

* [Nehemiah 4:7-8](/nehemiah/4-7 "Nehemiah 4:7-8 - Opposition to Wall Building")
* [Psalm 2:1-4](/psalms/2-1 "Psalm 2:1-4 - The Futility of Earthly Opposition")
* [Acts 5:38-39](/acts/5-38 "Acts 5:38-39 - Gamaliel's Counsel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezra 4:20 offers profound insights for believers today, reminding us that spiritual endeavors often encounter resistance, sometimes cloaked in plausible, yet misleading, arguments about practicalities, finances, or social order. This passage calls us to cultivate discernment, recognizing that opposition to God's kingdom work may not always manifest as direct persecution but can arise from subtle political maneuvering, economic pressures, or the manipulation of public opinion. It encourages perseverance in the face of setbacks, understanding that delays and obstacles are part of the journey, but God's ultimate purposes will prevail. We are invited to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that even when human rulers are swayed by false reports or self-interest, God remains in control, orchestrating history to fulfill His divine will. Our call is to remain faithful to our mission, praying for wisdom and courage to navigate the complex landscape of worldly opposition, confident that the gates of hell will not prevail against the church.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What forms of "opposition" to God's work do I observe in my own life or in the church today, and how might they be disguised?**
* **How does the accusers' strategy of appealing to financial and political self-interest resonate with tactics used to hinder righteous causes in our contemporary society?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate greater discernment to recognize subtle forms of opposition that might not appear overtly spiritual?**
* **How does the ultimate triumph of God's plan in Ezra, despite this setback, encourage me to persevere in my own spiritual commitments amidst challenges?**

### FAQ

**Who were the "mighty kings" mentioned in Ezra 4:20?**

Answer: The "mighty kings" primarily refer to historical Israelite monarchs like King David and King Solomon. David established Jerusalem as the capital of a united kingdom and expanded its territory, while Solomon's reign was characterized by immense wealth, wisdom, and extensive dominion that stretched "from the River to the land of the Philistines, as far as the border of Egypt" ([1 Kings 4:21](/1_kings/4-21 "1 Kings 4:21 - Solomon's Dominion")). The accusers in Ezra 4:20 likely exaggerated the extent and nature of their rule to instill fear in King Artaxerxes, portraying Jerusalem as a perpetually rebellious city with a history of challenging imperial authority and controlling vast regions, thereby implying that its rebuilding would pose a similar threat to Persian control over the Trans-Euphrates province.

**What was the significance of "beyond the river" in this context?**

Answer: "Beyond the river" (Aramaic: _Abar-nahara_) refers to the satrapy or province west of the Euphrates River, encompassing Syria, Phoenicia, and Judah. This was a crucial administrative and economic region for the Persian Empire, providing significant revenue and strategic control over trade routes. By claiming that Jerusalem's former kings ruled "over all [countries] beyond the river," the accusers were directly asserting that a rebuilt Jerusalem would threaten the Persian king's dominion over this vital province. This geographical reference underscored the magnitude of the perceived threat to Artaxerxes's imperial power and financial interests.

**Why did the accusers focus so heavily on "toll, tribute, and custom"?**

Answer: The accusers focused on "toll, tribute, and custom" because these represented direct financial losses for the Persian Empire. Persian kings relied heavily on a robust taxation system to fund their vast empire, maintain their armies, and support their lavish courts. By warning that a rebuilt Jerusalem would lead to a cessation of these payments, the adversaries directly appealed to King Artaxerxes's self-interest and his concern for imperial revenue. This argument was highly effective because it presented a tangible and immediate economic threat, framing the Jewish rebuilding efforts not just as a religious endeavor but as a direct challenge to the financial stability and political authority of the Persian crown.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezra 4:20, with its portrayal of powerful earthly rulers opposing God's people through political and economic manipulation, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "mighty kings" of Jerusalem's past, though significant, foreshadowed the true King whose dominion is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Is Not of This World")). Just as the adversaries sought to halt the rebuilding of the earthly temple and city, so too did the powers of this world conspire against Christ, the living Temple ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus and the Temple")), and His mission to build His church ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Peter's Confession and the Church")). The economic and political threats leveled against the exiles in Ezra anticipate the myriad ways the kingdom of God is opposed by worldly systems that prioritize their own revenue and control over divine purposes. Yet, unlike the temporary setback in Ezra, Christ's work cannot be thwarted; His kingdom is eternal, and He has already triumphed over all earthly powers and principalities ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Powers")). Ultimately, the "toll, tribute, and custom" of all nations will be paid not to earthly kings, but to the Lamb of God, for "the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever" ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Seventh Trumpet")). Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philip/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 15:18

In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates:

1 Kings 4:21

And Solomon reigned over all kingdoms from the river unto the land of the Philistines, and unto the border of Egypt: they brought presents, and served Solomon all the days of his life.

1 Chronicles 18:3

And David smote Hadarezer king of Zobah unto Hamath, as he went to stablish his dominion by the river Euphrates.

Psalms 72:8

He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.

Ezra 4:13

Be it known now unto the king, that, if this city be builded, and the walls set up [again, then] will they not pay toll, tribute, and custom, and [so] thou shalt endamage the revenue of the kings.

2 Chronicles 9:14

Beside [that which] chapmen and merchants brought. And all the kings of Arabia and governors of the country brought gold and silver to Solomon.

Joshua 1:3

Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses.