Ezra 4:20-22

Amplified Bible

²⁰ There have also been mighty kings over Jerusalem who have ruled over all the provinces west of the [Euphrates] River, and tax, custom, and toll were paid to them. ²¹ So, now issue a decree to make these men stop [work], so that this city is not rebuilt until a [new] command is issued by me. ²² Beware of being negligent in carrying out this matter. Why should damage increase to the detriment of the kings?”