⁸ Moreover I issue a decree as to what you shall do for the elders of these Jews, for the building of this ^[a]house of God: Let the cost be paid at the king’s expense from taxes on the region beyond the River; this is to be given immediately to these men, so that they are not hindered. ⁹ And whatever they need—young bulls, rams, and lambs for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the request of the priests who are in Jerusalem—let it be given them day by day without fail, ^10 (A)that they may offer sacrifices of sweet aroma to the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king and his sons.

¹¹ Also I issue a decree that whoever alters this edict, let a timber be pulled from his house and erected, and let him be hanged on it; ^(B)and let his house be made a refuse heap because of this. ¹² And may the God who causes His ^(C)name to dwell there destroy any king or people who put their hand to alter it, or to destroy this ^[b]house of God which is in Jerusalem. I Darius issue a decree; let it be done diligently.

¹³ I issue a decree that all those of the people of Israel and the priests and Levites in my realm, who volunteer to go up to Jerusalem, may go with you.