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Ezra 4:20

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

Ezra 4:20

Verse 20 of 24

Scripture focus

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.

Ezra 4:20 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on Ezra 4:20

Theological / Devotional

Mighty kings. If the king’s words mean what they seem to say, they can refer only to David and Solomon, to whom alone such a description applies. Israel then ruled from the border of Egypt to the Euphrates (1 Kings 4:21, 24), and expected tribute from various princes and states (2 Samuel 8:6-12; 1 Kings 10:14, 25). If indeed David and Solomon are meant, the records of Babylon must have been exceptionally complete and accurate. The only other ruler that might have been considered a “mighty king” of Jerusalem was Josiah, who felt himself strong enough to risk battle with the armies of Egypt (2 Kings 23:29).

Toll, tribute, and custom. See on Ezra 4:13.

By SdaBc