Ezra 4:15-17

Complete Jewish Bible

¹⁵ so that a search can be made in the archives of your ancestors; in these archives you will find and ascertain that this city is indeed a rebellious city, the bane of kings and provinces, and that sedition has been fostered there since ancient times — which is why this city was destroyed. ¹⁶ We submit to the king that if this city is rebuilt and the walls are finished, you will soon lose possession of all territories beyond the River.”