3. So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work and cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you? ”
4. Four times they sent me the same proposal, and I gave them the same reply.
5. Sanballat sent me this same message a fifth time by his aide, who had an open letter in his hand.
6. In it was written:It is reported among the nations — and Geshem agrees — that you and the Jews plan to rebel. This is the reason you are building the wall. According to these reports, you are to become their king
7. and have even set up the prophets in Jerusalem to proclaim on your behalf: “There is a king in Judah.” These rumors will be heard by the king. So come, let’s confer together.