“Among the nations it is rumored (and Geshem has substantiated this) that you and the Jews have intentions of revolting, and for this reason you are building the wall. Furthermore, according to these rumors you are going to become their king. 6:7 You have also established prophets to announce in Jerusalem on your behalf, ‘We have a king in Judah!’ Now the king is going to hear about these rumors. So come on! Let’s talk about this.”
6:8 I sent word back to him, “We are not engaged in these activities you are describing. All of this is a figment of your imagination.”
6:9 All of them were wanting to scare us, supposing, “Their hands will grow slack from the work, and it won’t get done.”
So now, strengthen my hands!