Nehemiah 8:9-11

Complete Jewish Bible

⁹ Nechemyah the Tirshata, ‘Ezra the cohen and Torah-teacher and the L’vi’im who taught the people said to all the people, “Today is consecrated to Adonai your God; don’t be mournful, don’t weep.” For all the people had been weeping when they heard the words of the Torah. ¹⁰ Then he said to them, “Go, eat rich food, drink sweet drinks, and send portions to those who can’t provide for themselves; for today is consecrated to our Lord. Don’t be sad, because the joy of Adonai is your strength.” ¹¹ In this way the L’vi’im quieted the people, as they said, “Be quiet, for today is holy; don’t be sad.”