46
and opened it, all the people stood up. Ezra said, "Praise the Lord, God Most High, God Almighty, Ruler of all."
47
All the people raised their arms in the air and answered, "Amen!" They knelt down in worship, with their faces to the ground.
48
The following Levites taught the Law of the Lord to the people: Jeshua, Anniuth, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maiannas, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, and Peliah. They read the Law to the people and explained what was read.
49
When the people heard what the Law required, they were so moved that they began to weep. The governor said to Ezra, the priest and scholar of the Law, and to all the Levites who were teaching the people, "This day is holy to the Lord;
51
go home and have a feast. Share your food and wine with those who don't have any.
52
Today is holy to the Lord, so don't be sad. He will restore your former glory."
53
The Levites gave the command to all the people: "This day is holy; do not be sad."
54
So all the people went home and joyfully ate and drank and shared what they had with those who had nothing. They celebrated