Translations
Modern
And the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, since today is holy. Do not grieve.”
Traditional
So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved.
Literal
And the Levites quieted all the people, saying, “Be still, for the day is holy, and do not be grieved.”
Latin
Levitæ autem silentium faciebant in omni populo, dicentes: Tacete, quia dies sanctus est, et nolite dolere.
Original
Hebrew
English
And the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, since today is holy. Do not grieve.”
Notes
This section, possibly from Ezra’s personal memoirs, explains how Ezra’s teaching of God’s law renewed the people's commitment to serve God and follow his instructions. Spiritual revival occurred alongside the civic work of Ezra and Nehemiah.
Theme notes and profiles
Parallels
People
Levi: Son of Jacob; progenitor of the Levites
Glossary
Book of Nehemiah First Book of Esdras Postexilic Period Water Gate Writer
Topics
Beneficence: The Jews Who Returned from the Exile Feasts: (Instituted by Moses): First and Last Days Were Sabbatic Feasts: (Instituted by Moses): Kept with Rejoicing Joy of the Jews, After Hearing, Anew, the Word of God Law: Princes, Priests, and Levites Publicly Taught Levites: Teachers of the Law Repentance: After Hearing the Law Expounded by Ezra