Graphic Bible · Scene 2 of 4

Ezra and Nehemiah comfort tearful families as food and drink are shared throughout the square.
Artwork is an interpretation. Scripture is quoted from the People's Open Bible.

Nehemiah 8:9-12

The Joy of Yahweh

The Joy of Understanding · Nehemiah 8

Story guide: The leaders tell the people not to mourn; they celebrate and share because they understand the words read to them.

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9Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to Yahweh your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping as they heard the words of the law.

10Then he said to them, “Go, eat rich food and drink sweet drinks, and send portions to anyone for whom nothing is prepared, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of Yahweh is your stronghold.”

11And the Levites were quieting all the people, saying, “Be still, for the day is holy; do not be grieved.”

12And all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions, and to celebrate with great joy, because they had understood the words that had been made known to them.

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