Ezr 4:15-16 | ESV | STEP | in order that search may be made in the book of the records of your fathers . You will find in the book of the records and learn that this city is a rebellious city , hurtful to kings and provinces , and that sedition was stirred up in it from of old . That was why this city was laid waste .

Ezra 4:15-16

15 in order that search may be made in the book of the records of your fathers. You will find in the book of the records and learn that this city is a rebellious city, hurtful to kings and provinces, and that sedition was stirred up in it from of old. That was why this city was laid waste. 16 We make known to the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls finished, you will then have no possession in the province Beyond the River.”