Discovery BoxEzra 4:12 
Context4:12 Now 1 let the king be aware that the Jews who came up to us from you have gone to Jerusalem. They are rebuilding that rebellious and odious city. 2 They are completing its walls and repairing its foundations.
Ezra 4:19
Context4:19 So I gave orders, 3 and it was determined 4 that this city from long ago has been engaging in insurrection against kings. It has continually engaged in 5 rebellion and revolt.
1 tn The MT takes this word with the latter part of v. 11, but in English style it fits better with v. 12.
2 sn Management of the provinces that were distantly removed from the capital was difficult, and insurrection in such places was a perennial problem. The language used in this report about Jerusalem (i.e., “rebellious,” “odious”) is intentionally inflammatory. It is calculated to draw immediate attention to the perceived problem.
3 tn Aram “from me was placed a decree.”
4 tn Aram “and they searched and found.”
5 tn Aram “are being done.”
