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The people were attentive

Nehemiah 8:3 "And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law."

Ezra, the scribe and priest, is reading the law of Moses. He is doing so based on a request from the people in verse one.

Anyone old enough to listen and understand was gathered in this open area near the water gate, as Ezra stood to read upon a wooden platform that was built for this purpose.

The people of Jerusalem are eager to listen. He reads from early in the morning until midday.

When the law opened the people stood to their feet. We also see them lifting their hands and then bowing their heads in worship, with their faces to the ground.

In verse nine they weep when they hear the words of the law.

This day is described as holy unto the Lord. And the people are told not to grieve, for the joy of the Lord is their strength.

This mission to rebuild the wall has brought the people together. And they gather in one accord to hear and learn God's words.

Nehemiah 8:3 "And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law."