Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Nehemiah 8:18
Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the book of the law of God. And they kept the feast seven days; and on the eighth day [was] a solemn assembly, according unto the manner.
18. he read ] i.e. Ezra. This is the usual explanation, so also LXX. . Vulg. ‘legit.’ According to another interpretation the 3rd pers. sing. is impersonal = ‘and one read,’ ‘there was reading.’
in the book of the law of God ] The command to read at the Feast of Tabernacles only applied to the special usage of the Sabbatic year (Deu 31:10-11), and it is clear from the context in that passage that Moses in using the words ‘thou shalt read this law’ (Deu 31:11) is speaking especially of the Deuteronomic law which he is described as having written and committed to the priests in Deu 31:9 and Deu 31:26. It is a mistake therefore to connect this reading of ‘the law’ by Ezra with any special obedience to Deu 31:10-11, unless it be assumed that it was the Sabbatic year, and that the law read was the Deuteronomic law. For neither assumption is there any sufficient warrant. The fact that the reading went on for seven days makes it probable that the whole, or at any rate by far the greater portion, of the Torah was read.
the eighth day ] This eighth day was not originally part of the feast, but an extra day commanded by the Priestly Law to be observed as ‘an holy convocation’ (Lev 23:36; Lev 23:39). Its celebration closed, as it were, the festival calendar of the Jewish sacred year. We do not hear of its observance in early times. As we might expect, it is not mentioned in the brief festival notice of Exo 23:16. In Deu 16:13-17 it is not spoken of, it is only said ‘Seven days shalt thou keep a feast.’ In 1Ki 8:65-66, we are told that after the Feast of Tabernacles Solomon sent the people away on the 8th day. In the Priestly Law, however, the observance of this 8th day is insisted upon as ‘a holy convocation,’ ‘a solemn assembly,’ on which ‘no servile work’ is to be done, ‘the eighth day shall be a solemn rest’ (Lev 23:36; Lev 23:39). It is interesting, therefore, to take notice that in 2Ch 7:8-9 the observance of this 8th day is recorded, although not mentioned in the parallel passage, 1Ki 8:65-66. The Chronicler recounts the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles in accordance with his knowledge of the Priestly Law. Our passage agrees with the later observance and with the Priestly Law. The complete disappearance of the originally distinct character of ‘the eighth day’ is shown in 2Ma 10:6 ‘eight days as in the feast of tabernacles.’
a solemn assembly (Heb. a restrain assembly)] R.V. Marg. ‘Or, closing festival ’. LXX. . Vulg. ‘collectam.’ The Hebrew word e’ creth is used technically here and in Lev 23:36; Num 29:35; 2Ch 7:9, for the day after the Feast of Tabernacles, and in Deu 16:8, for the 7th and last day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. With an original sense of ‘shutting,’ ‘packing together,’ it is used of ‘public gatherings’ (Jer 9:2), and sacred festivals (2Ki 10:20; Isa 1:13; Joe 1:14; Amo 5:21), and, in post-Biblical Hebrew, especially of the Feast of Weeks.
the manner ] R.V. the ordinance. According to the ordinance ( mishpt. LXX. . Vulg. ‘ritum’) of the Priestly Law (Lev 23:36). The emphasis of this appeal to authority is perhaps to be explained by the fact that in early times the 8th day had not been observed.
Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
He read in the book of the law of God; which was commanded to be done at this feast, Deu 31:10-12, though not enjoined to be done every day, as now out of a singular zeal they did.
Fuente: English Annotations on the Holy Bible by Matthew Poole
18. Also day by day . . . he read inthe book of the law of GodThis was more than was enjoined (De31:10-12), and arose from the exuberant zeal of the time.
on the eighth day was asolemn assemblyThis was the last and great day of the feast(see on Nu 29:35). In later times,other ceremonies which increased the rejoicing were added (Joh7:37).
Fuente: Jamieson, Fausset and Brown’s Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the book of the law of God,…. That is, Ezra; this was done by him every day during the feast, whereas only the first and last days were the holy convocations on which it seems to have been read:
and they kept the feast seven days, and on the eighth day was a solemn assembly, according to the manner; prescribed in Le 23:39.
Fuente: John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
(18) According unto the manner.For the Azereth, or supplementary feast day, see Lev. 23:36.
Fuente: Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers (Old and New Testaments)
18. Day by day he read The people needed instruction, and the feast of tabernacles afforded a most suitable occasion for the public reading of the law. The law also enjoined such a public reading once in seven years at the feast of tabernacles. Deu 31:10-11.
He read That is, Ezra read, or caused to be read. He was, doubtless, assisted during the seven days by the priests and the Levites, as he had been on the first day of the month. Neh 8:1-8.
A solemn assembly The same as the holy convocation mentioned in Lev 23:36.
According unto the manner Or, according to custom. Aside from the extensive reading of the law and the whole community dwelling in booths, which specially distinguished this particular feast, the other observances followed general usage.
Fuente: Whedon’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments
Neh 8:18. A solemn assembly, according unto the manner It is supposed to have been at this solemnity that the notable discovery happened of the sacred fire, related 2Ma 1:18, &c. The Jews affirm, that Jeremiah, or some other prophet, had caused it to be hidden in a dry well, a little before the taking of Jerusalem; and that the memory of it having been still preserved to that time, Nehemiah caused it to be brought out for the divine service. In memory of this wonderful discovery, the Jews instituted a feast, which they called “the feast of the new fire.” See Univ. Hist.
REFLECTIONS.1st, It was not the restoration of the temple-service, nor the rebuilding of the ruined wall, that was their great protection. Obedience was better than sacrifice, and fidelity to God a stronger barrier than the loftiest towers. The people here seem to be sensible of this.
1. A great congregation assembled at the feast of trumpets, on the first day of the seventh month, when the new year began, the day they had set up and dedicated the altar at their return from captivity. Men, women, and children, who were arrived at years of understanding, came: the place of assembly, for convenience, was the large street which led to the water-gate; and there Ezra, with his assistants, at their desire, ascending a pulpit, or wooden turret, that he might be better heard, brought forth the law of God, to be read and expounded to the congregation. Note; (1.) We have reason to be thankful for commodious places for our religious assemblies; not but that the prayer of faith, and the preaching of the gospel, are acceptable services in every place. (2.) They who serve God themselves, cannot but be solicitous that their families should serve him too. (3.) Nothing is so needful in the education of our children, as early to acquaint them with the word of God. (4.) It is a pleasure to preach the word to those who desire to hear, and who hunger and thirst after it.
2. With great solemnity Ezra opened the awful book, while the eyes of the people were fixed upon him. He began with a devout benediction, adoring the great God for the distinguishing mercy that they enjoyed in these oracles of divine truth; to which the people joined their hearty amen, worshipping with reverential humiliation this glorious Lord. He then proceeded, with his assistants, the priests and Levites, by turns to read and expound the most useful parts of the law, from morning till noon; either commenting upon it, to enforce and explain it; or translating it into the Chaldee tongue, as that was become by their captivity more familiar to them than the Hebrew. Note; (1.) When we address ourselves to prayer on the word, the frame of our minds had need be solemn and reverential, considering that God with whom we have to do. (2.) The reading of the word of God ought never to be omitted in the assembly of God’s saints. (3.) When we carry our Bibles into the pulpit, it contains an admonition to us, that we speak according thereunto; and an appeal to the people, as desiring to be judged thereby. (4.) Preaching the word is among the greatest means of grace; and they who zealously seek the salvation of men’s souls will not tire of the work. A short sermon is often a mark of a cold heart. (5.) Among all the abominations of the church of Rome, none is more diabolical than the withholding of the Scriptures from the people. (6.) They who are appointed to teach the knowledge of the Scripture, should study rather to speak distinctly and plainly, that they may be understood, than elegantly, to be admired. (7.) Exposition of the Scripture is highly useful, not only to render perspicuous what is abstruse, but to enforce on the conscience what is plain and evident.
3. The people with fixed attention stood up to hear; and, unwearied by the length of the time, hung upon the preacher’s lips. Note; (1.) The sermon is likely to be effectual, when the audience is thus solemnly attentive. (2.) They who relish the word of God will never think the time long that is spent in hearing it.
2nd, The word of God is quick and powerful, and sharp as a two-edged sword. We see here,
1. The deep impression that it made upon the hearers’ hearts. Conscious of manifold breaches, and trembling before a holy God, they all wept. Their hearts were tender, and they could not but tremble at his awful word, which denounced eternal death on every transgression. Note; The law brings so terrible a message to the conscience, that, if the gospel were not to afford us relief, we should lie down in everlasting mournings.
2. Nehemiah and Ezra observed the deep effect the word had taken; and though, no doubt, they were glad to see them mourn for their sins; yet, it being a day of rejoicing before the Lord, they endeavour to stay the people’s sorrows with kind encouragement. They must not grieve inordinately. They enjoin them, therefore, to refrain from tears, and keep a holy feast to the Lord, with liberal and charitable distributions to the poor, and joy in God as their strength; joy which enlivens and encourages the heart to every good word and work, and raises up the soul above fear and despondency. Note; (1.) It is a pleasing part of a minister’s duty to comfort those that mourn. (2.) They who sow in tears fail not to reap in joy. (3.) While the Lord is pleased to cover our tables with affluence, let us never forget to draw out our soul to the hungry: the greatest comfort of abundance is to do good with it. (4.) Holy joy will quicken us for every duty, and strengthen us for every conflict.
3. The people hereupon dried up their tears; and, understanding the great and precious promises that were made to repentant Israel, rejoiced in hope of finding favour with their justly-offended God. Note; (1.) Though the Scriptures pierce like a sword the heart of a sinner, they contain that balm which can cure the wound. (2.) A clear knowledge of God’s word is the way to sound and abiding consolation.
3rdly, The word, which the preceding day had so much engaged their attention and affected their hearts, is again applied to. The chief of the elders, priests, and Levites, especially solicitous to understand the law, assembled before Ezra, that he might explain what was obscure or difficult. Note; (1.) They who are appointed to instruct others had need use double diligence to understand the mind of God themselves. (2.) Converse with the oracles of God affords a daily delightful entertainment to faithful souls. The consequence of this renewed attendance upon God’s word was,
1. A discovery of a long-neglected ordinance, the feast of tabernacles. As the time approached, Ezra probably selected that portion of Scripture to remind them of it, and to direct them in the observance of it. Note; (1.) How good is a word spoken in season! (2.) The careful reading of God’s word will convince us of many negligences and ignorances.
2. A proclamation is made for the observance of it, both at Jerusalem and at the other cities.
3. The solemnity is most religiously observed. Never since the days of Joshua had such a feast been kept with such exactness, holy joy, and daily, diligent, and serious attendance on the word of God. Note; (1.) They who have their hearts right with God, will be diligent and serious observers of all his institutions. (2.) Our leisure hours will be ever most comfortably and profitably employed in the oracles of truth. (3.) When we are waiting on God in the way of his ordinances, he will meet us in them, and fill our hearts with joy and gladness.
Fuente: Commentary on the Holy Bible by Thomas Coke
REFLECTIONS
PRECIOUS chapter this, which in the view of Ezra reminds me of Jesus! how was it possible indeed to see Ezra taking the book, and opening it before the people, and not call to mind what I have read of thee, thou Holy Saviour, when as a Lamb thou, and thou alone, wert found worthy to open the book of God, and loose the seals thereof. And were the people of the captivity anxious to hear Ezra the scribe read out of the book of the law, and shall I not be, extremely solicitous that thou, most blessed Jesus, should open to me the precious words of salvation? Did they weep with holy tears at what they heard. And shall my soul remain, unmoved at the gracious words which proceed forth from thy mouth? Was the law of Moses, which contained the ministration of death, glorious to their view? And shall not life from the dead in the gospel of thy blood and righteousness, be abundantly more glorious? Oh! precious, precious Lamb of God; let me join the universal song that filled heaven and earth, in the moment redemption work was made known, and cry out with them; Thou art worthy to take the book, and open the seals thereof, for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God, by thy blood. Yes! thou adorable Redeemer; the church hail thee in heaven; the church praise thee on earth. Oh! let a poor worm send forth his feeble breathings, poor and feeble as they are, and sing as they did, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing. May all glory be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever. Amen.
Fuente: Hawker’s Poor Man’s Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
Neh 8:18 Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the book of the law of God. And they kept the feast seven days; and on the eighth day [was] a solemn assembly, according unto the manner.
Ver. 18. Also day by day ] Not only on the first and last day (“that great day of the feast,” Joh 7:37 ), but every day, this good man was at it, being insatiabilis Dei cultor (as Chrysostom saith of St Paul), an insatiable worshipper of God; and accounting quod nimis augusta pietas est, ad legem bonum esse, to do nothing for God more than needs must was too little.
And they kept the feast seven days
And on the eighth day was a solemn assembly
Fuente: John Trapp’s Complete Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
he. Some codices, with Syriac, read “they”.
assembly = restraint: i.e. restraint from work.
manner = regulation, or ordinance. Neh 9:1 Neh 10:39 is parallel with Ezr 9:1 Ezr 10:44. Ezr 4:1 Ezr 8:36 comes between Neh 8:18 with Neh 9:1. See the Table and Structure on p. 617, notes on p. 618, and App-58.
Fuente: Companion Bible Notes, Appendices and Graphics
day by day: Deu 31:10-13
a solemn assembly: Heb. a restraint
according: Lev 23:36, Num 29:35, Joh 7:37
Reciprocal: Lev 23:41 – General Num 29:12 – the fifteenth day Deu 16:8 – solemn assembly Deu 31:11 – shalt read Deu 33:10 – They shall teach 2Ki 22:10 – Shaphan 2Ch 7:9 – solemn assembly 2Ch 30:22 – taught Joe 1:14 – solemn assembly Jam 1:19 – let
Fuente: The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Neh 8:18. Day by day he read in the book of the law of God The law was commanded to be read at this feast, Deu 31:10-12. But the reading of it was not enjoined to be continued every day, as was now done through their singular and very laudable zeal.