Day after day, from the first day to the last, Ezra read from the Book of the Law of God. The Israelites kept the feast for seven days, and on the eighth day they held an assembly, according to the ordinance. Day after dayThis phrase emphasizes the consistency and dedication of the people in their spiritual practices. In the Hebrew context, the repetition of daily activities signifies a commitment to God's Word and a desire for continual growth in faith. The daily reading of Scripture reflects the importance of regular engagement with God's Word, a practice that is encouraged throughout the Bible as a means of spiritual nourishment and guidance. from the first day to the last
This phrase indicates the comprehensive nature of the event, covering the entire duration of the Feast of Tabernacles. Historically, this feast was a time of remembrance and celebration of God's provision during the Israelites' wilderness journey. The phrase underscores the importance of beginning and completing spiritual commitments, reflecting a holistic approach to worship and obedience. Ezra read from the Book of the Law of God
Ezra, a scribe and priest, played a crucial role in the spiritual revival of the people. The "Book of the Law of God" refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain God's commandments and instructions. Ezra's public reading signifies the centrality of Scripture in the life of the community and highlights the role of spiritual leaders in teaching and interpreting God's Word. They kept the feast for seven days
The Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot, was a time of joyous celebration and reflection on God's faithfulness. The seven-day observance symbolizes completeness and perfection in biblical numerology. This phrase reminds believers of the importance of observing God's appointed times and the joy that comes from living in obedience to His commands. and on the eighth day
The eighth day, following the seven-day feast, holds special significance as a day of solemn assembly. In biblical terms, the number eight often represents new beginnings and renewal. This day marks a transition from the celebration to a time of reflection and commitment to God's covenant, encouraging believers to seek renewal in their spiritual journey. in accordance with the regulation
This phrase highlights the importance of adhering to God's instructions as outlined in the Scriptures. The regulations for the Feast of Tabernacles were given in Leviticus 23, and the people's obedience to these commands demonstrates their reverence for God's authority. It serves as a reminder that true worship involves both heartfelt devotion and adherence to God's revealed will. there was an assembly
The assembly signifies a gathering of the community for worship and instruction. In the historical context, such assemblies were vital for maintaining the spiritual unity and identity of the people. This gathering reflects the communal aspect of faith, where believers come together to hear God's Word, encourage one another, and strengthen their collective commitment to God's purposes. Persons / Places / Events 1. EzraA scribe and priest who played a crucial role in the spiritual renewal of the Israelites by reading the Law of God to the people. 2. The Book of the Law of GodRefers to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain God's commandments and instructions for His people. 3. The FeastThis refers to the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), a time of joyous celebration and remembrance of God's provision during the Israelites' wilderness journey. 4. The AssemblyA gathering of the Israelites on the eighth day, which was a sacred assembly as prescribed in the Law. 5. JerusalemThe city where these events took place, serving as the spiritual and political center for the Jewish people. Teaching Points The Importance of ScriptureJust as Ezra read the Law daily, we should prioritize regular engagement with God's Word to guide our lives. Celebration and RemembranceThe Feast of Tabernacles reminds us to celebrate God's provision and faithfulness in our own lives. Community WorshipThe assembly on the eighth day underscores the value of gathering with fellow believers to worship and learn from Scripture. Obedience to God's CommandsThe Israelites' adherence to the Law during the feast serves as a model for our own obedience to God's instructions. Spiritual RenewalRegular exposure to Scripture can lead to personal and communal spiritual renewal, as seen in the revival of the Israelites. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the regular reading of Scripture, as practiced by Ezra, influence your personal spiritual growth? 2. In what ways can you incorporate the principles of celebration and remembrance into your daily life to honor God's provision? 3. How does gathering with other believers for worship and study impact your understanding and application of God's Word? 4. What steps can you take to ensure obedience to God's commands in your everyday decisions and actions? 5. How can the example of spiritual renewal in Nehemiah 8 inspire you to seek revival in your own faith community? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 23Provides the original instructions for the Feast of Tabernacles, highlighting its significance and the requirement for a sacred assembly on the eighth day. Deuteronomy 31Describes the reading of the Law every seven years during the Feast of Tabernacles, emphasizing the importance of hearing and understanding God's Word. Joshua 8Illustrates a similar event where the Law was read to the people, reinforcing the practice of public reading and teaching of Scripture. Psalm 119Celebrates the beauty and importance of God's Law, aligning with the reverence shown by the Israelites in Nehemiah 8. People Akkub, Anaiah, Azariah, Bani, Ezra, Hanan, Hashbadana, Hashum, Hilkiah, Hodiah, Hodijah, Israelites, Jamin, Jeshua, Joshua, Jozabad, Kelita, Levites, Maaseiah, Malchiah, Malchijah, Mattithiah, Meshullam, Mishael, Nehemiah, Nun, Pedaiah, Pelaiah, Shabbethai, Shema, Sherebiah, Uriah, UrijahPlaces Gate of Ephraim, Jerusalem, Water GateTopics Accordance, Assembly, Book, Celebrated, Daily, Eighth, Feast, Holy, Kept, Law, Manner, Meeting, Observed, Ordered, Ordinance, Readeth, Reading, Regulation, Restraint, Seven, Solemn, TillDictionary of Bible Themes Nehemiah 8:18 1653 numbers, 6-10
4975 week
5175 reading
7209 congregation Nehemiah 8:1-18 1640 Book of the Law
7464 teachers of the law Nehemiah 8:17-18 7358 Feast of Tabernacles Library January 29. "Send Portions unto them for whom Nothing is Prepared" (Neh. viii. 10).
"Send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared" (Neh. viii. 10). That was a fine picture in the days of Nehemiah, when they were celebrating their glorious Feast of Tabernacles. "Neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions to them for whom nothing is prepared." How many there are on every side for whom nothing is prepared! Let us find out some sad and needy heart for whom there is no one else to think or care. …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth The Joy of the Lord
'The joy of the Lord is your strength.'--Neh. viii. 10. Judaism, in its formal and ceremonial aspect, was a religion of gladness. The feast was the great act of worship. It is not to be wondered at, that Christianity, the perfecting of that ancient system, has been less markedly felt to be a religion of joy; for it brings with it far deeper and more solemn views about man in his nature, condition, responsibilities, destinies, than ever prevailed before, under any system of worship. And yet all deep …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Reading the Law with Tears and Joy
'And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel. 2. And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. 3. And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate, from the morning until midday, before …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Joy of the Lord, the Strength of his People
LAST Sabbath day in the morning I spoke of the birth of our Saviour as being full of joy to the people of God, and, indeed, to all nations. We then looked at the joy from a distance; we will now in contemplation draw nearer to it, and perhaps as we consider it, and remark the multiplied reasons for its existence, some of those reasons may operate upon our own hearts, and we may go out of this house of prayer ourselves partakers of the exceeding great joy. We shall count it to have been a successful …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871 The Original Text and Its History.
1. The original language of the Old Testament is Hebrew, with the exception of certain portions of Ezra and Daniel and a single verse of Jeremiah, (Ezra 4:8-6:18; 7:12-26; Dan. 2:4, from the middle of the verse to end of chap. 7; Jer. 10:11,) which are written in the cognate Chaldee language. The Hebrew belongs to a stock of related languages commonly called Shemitic, because spoken mainly by the descendants of Shem. Its main divisions are: (1,) the Arabic, having its original seat in the …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible Twenty-First Day. Holiness and Happiness.
The kingdom of God is joy in the Holy Ghost.'--Rom. xiv. 17. 'The disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Ghost.'--Acts xiii. 52. 'Then Nehemiah said, This day is holy unto the Lord: neither be ye sorry, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. So the Levites stilled the people, saying, Hold your peace; for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved. And all the people went their way to make great mirth, because they had understood the words.'--Neh. viii. 10-12. The deep significance of …
Andrew Murray—Holy in Christ John's First Testimony to Jesus.
(Bethany Beyond Jordan, February, a.d. 27.) ^D John I. 19-34. ^d 19 And this is the witness of John [John had been sent to testify, "and" this is the matter of his testimony], when the Jews [The term "Jews" is used seventy times by John to describe the ruling classes of Judæa] sent unto him [In thus sending an embassy they honored John more than they ever honored Christ. They looked upon John as a priest and Judæan, but upon Jesus as a carpenter and Galilæan. It is probable that …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Healing a Demoniac in a Synagogue.
(at Capernaum.) ^B Mark I. 21-28; ^C Luke . IV. 31-37. ^b 21 And they [Jesus and the four fishermen whom he called] go into { ^c he came down to} Capernaum, a city of Galilee. [Luke has just spoken of Nazareth, and he uses the expression "down to Capernaum" because the latter was on the lake shore while Nazareth was up in the mountains.] And ^b straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue and taught. { ^c was teaching them} ^b 22 And they were astonished at his teaching: for he taught …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Scattering of the People
[Illustration: (drop cap A) The Fish-god of Assyria and Babylonia] At last the full punishment for their many sins fell upon God's chosen people. The words of warning written in the fifth book of Moses had told them plainly that if they turned aside and worshipped the wicked idol-gods of Canaan, the Lord would take their country from them and drive them out into strange lands. Yet again and again they had yielded to temptation. And now the day of reckoning had come. Nebuchadnezzar, the great king …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making The Last Days of the Old Eastern World
The Median wars--The last native dynasties of Egypt--The Eastern world on the eve of the Macedonian conquest. [Drawn by Boudier, from one of the sarcophagi of Sidon, now in the Museum of St. Irene. The vignette, which is by Faucher-Gudin, represents the sitting cyno-cephalus of Nectanebo I., now in the Egyptian Museum at the Vatican.] Darius appears to have formed this project of conquest immediately after his first victories, when his initial attempts to institute satrapies had taught him not …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 9 Its Effects.
Among the effects and benefits which in this life accompany and flow from being filled with the Holy Ghost, may be mentioned the following:-- 1. Courage. "Oh, I could not do so and so--I have not the courage," is a reply frequently made by Christian people when asked to undertake some piece of service or other for the Master. The first point to be settled is, "Is that the Master's will for me?" If so, lack of courage is a confession to the lack of the "Fullness of the Holy Ghost." The Spirit-filled …
John MacNeil—The Spirit-Filled Life The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close.
The first important part of the Old Testament put together as a whole was the Pentateuch, or rather, the five books of Moses and Joshua. This was preceded by smaller documents, which one or more redactors embodied in it. The earliest things committed to writing were probably the ten words proceeding from Moses himself, afterwards enlarged into the ten commandments which exist at present in two recensions (Exod. xx., Deut. v.) It is true that we have the oldest form of the decalogue from the Jehovist …
Samuel Davidson—The Canon of the Bible Of the Public Fast.
A public fast is when, by the authority of the magistrate (Jonah iii. 7; 2 Chron. xx. 3; Ezra viii. 21), either the whole church within his dominion, or some special congregation, whom it concerneth, assemble themselves together, to perform the fore-mentioned duties of humiliation; either for the removing of some public calamity threatened or already inflicted upon them, as the sword, invasion, famine, pestilence, or other fearful sickness (1 Sam. vii. 5, 6; Joel ii. 15; 2 Chron. xx.; Jonah iii. …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Joy
'The fruit of the Spirit is joy.' Gal 5:52. The third fruit of justification, adoption, and sanctification, is joy in the Holy Ghost. Joy is setting the soul upon the top of a pinnacle - it is the cream of the sincere milk of the word. Spiritual joy is a sweet and delightful passion, arising from the apprehension and feeling of some good, whereby the soul is supported under present troubles, and fenced against future fear. I. It is a delightful passion. It is contrary to sorrow, which is a perturbation …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Assurance
Q-xxxvi: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS WHICH FLOW FROM SANCTIFICATION? A: Assurance of God's love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance therein to the end. The first benefit flowing from sanctification is assurance of God's love. 'Give diligence to make your calling and election sure.' 2 Pet 1:10. Sanctification is the seed, assurance is the flower which grows out of it: assurance is a consequent of sanctification. The saints of old had it. We know that we know …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Man's Chief End
Q-I: WHAT IS THE CHIEF END OF MAN? A: Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him for ever. Here are two ends of life specified. 1: The glorifying of God. 2: The enjoying of God. I. The glorifying of God, I Pet 4:4: That God in all things may be glorified.' The glory of God is a silver thread which must run through all our actions. I Cor 10:01. Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.' Everything works to some end in things natural and artificial; …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Ezra-Nehemiah
Some of the most complicated problems in Hebrew history as well as in the literary criticism of the Old Testament gather about the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Apart from these books, all that we know of the origin and early history of Judaism is inferential. They are our only historical sources for that period; and if in them we have, as we seem to have, authentic memoirs, fragmentary though they be, written by the two men who, more than any other, gave permanent shape and direction to Judaism, then …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Nehemiah 8:18 NIVNehemiah 8:18 NLTNehemiah 8:18 ESVNehemiah 8:18 NASBNehemiah 8:18 KJV
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