Nehemiah 8:9-11

Contemporary English Version

⁹ The people started crying when God's Law was read to them. Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher, and the Levites who had been teaching the people all said, “This is a special day for the Lord your God. So don't be sad and don't cry!”

¹⁰ Nehemiah told the people, “Enjoy your good food and wine and share some with those who didn't have anything to bring. Don't be sad! This is a special day for the Lord, and he will make you happy and strong.”

¹¹ The Levites encouraged the people by saying, “This is a sacred day, so don't worry or mourn!”