42
Ezra the priest and reader of the law stood on the wooden platform that had been prepared;
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and beside him stood Mattathiah, Shema, Ananias, Azariah, Uriah, Hezekiah, and Baalsamus on his right,
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and on his left Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Lothasubus, Nabariah, and Zechariah.
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Then Ezra took up the book of the law in the sight of the multitude, for he had the place of honor in the presence of all.
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When he opened the law, they all stood erect. And Ezra blessed the Lord God Most High, the God of hosts, the Almighty,
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and the multitude answered, "Amen." They lifted up their hands, and fell to the ground and worshiped the Lord.
48
Jeshua and Anniuth and Sherebiah, Jadinus, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maiannas and Kelita, Azariah and Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites, taught the law of the Lord, at the same time explaining what was read.
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Then Attharates said to Ezra the chief priest and reader, and to the Levites who were teaching the multitude, and to all,
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"This day is holy to the Lord"—now they were all weeping as they heard the law—
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"so go your way, eat the fat and drink the sweet, and send portions to those who have none;
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for the day is holy to the Lord; and do not be sorrowful, for the Lord will exalt you."