For long ago in the days of David and Asaph there were directors of the singers, and there were songs of praise and thanksgiving to God.
We have here an account of the remaining good effects of the universal joy that was at the dedication of the wall. When the solemnities of a thanksgiving day leave such impressions on ministers and people as that both are more careful and cheerful in doing their duty afterwards, then they are indeed acceptable to God and turn to a good account. So it was here. 1.
Commenting on Nehemiah 12:44-47
SUCCESSION OF THE HIGH PRIESTS. (Neh. 12:10-47) Jeshua begat Joiakim, &c.--This enumeration was of great importance, not only as establishing their individual purity of descent, but because the chronology of the Jews was henceforth to be reckoned, not as formerly by the reigns of their kings, but by the successions of their high priests.
Commenting on Nehemiah 12:10-47
Neh 12:45-47 And they cared for the care of their God, etc.; i.e., they observed all that was to be observed, both with respect to God and with respect to purification, i.e., they faithfully and punctually performed their office. On משׁמרת שׁמר, see rem. on Gen 26:5 and Lev 8:35. “And (so also) the singers and doorkeepers,” i.e., they, too, observed the duties incumbent on them.
Commenting on Nehemiah 12:45-47