These are the singers, heads of the fathers' [houses] of the Levites, [who lodged] in the chambers, [and were] free [from other duties;] for they were employed in [that] work day and night.

Moreover I issue a decree [as to] what you shall do for the elders of these Jews, for the building of this 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.

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,

And whatever more may be needed for the house of your God, which you may have occasion to provide, pay [for it] from the king's treasury.

up to one hundred talents of silver, one hundred kors of wheat, one hundred baths of wine, one hundred baths of oil, and salt without prescribed limit.

Also we inform you that it shall not be lawful to impose tax, tribute, or custom [on] any of the priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, Nethinim, or servants of this house of God.