Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezra 4:20. It’s a bit complex at first, but we can understand it in a few key parts: The Basic Idea: This verse is about the leadership of people in Jerusalem during a time when the city was rebuilding after a period of chaos and decline. It highlights that there were powerful rulers who controlled the area around Jerusalem. Let’s unpack it word by word: “There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem…” – This means there were several powerful kings who governed the region around Jerusalem. “Mighty” suggests they were significant and influential. “…which have ruled over all [countries] beyond the river.” – This is where it gets a little tricky. "Beyond the river" refers to the Jordan River, which separated the land of Israel from the land of Judah. So, this verse tells us these kings controlled a large area beyond that river. It means they had authority over neighboring areas and settlements. “and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid unto them.” – This is the crucial part. "Toll," "tribute," and "custom" were all forms of payment or obligations that rulers demanded from people living in their territory. It’s like a regular tax or a set of rules that governed how people lived and behaved within the area. Putting it Together – What's the Big Picture? Essentially, this verse describes a period where powerful kings were in charge of a large region surrounding Jerusalem, requiring them to collect taxes (money) and adhere to specific customs or laws. It suggests a time when there was a strong centralized authority overseeing the area. Important Note: The text of Ezra 4:20 is part of a larger historical context within the book of Ezra. The author is essentially recounting what happened during this period, emphasizing the rebuilding effort and the desire to restore God’s presence in Jerusalem. --- Do you want me to: Explain any particular word or phrase further? Give you a more detailed explanation of the historical context? Compare it to another Bible verse?