40 The two choirs that gave thanks then took their places in the house of God; so did I, together with half the officials,
40 So stood the two companies of them that gave thanks in the house of God, and I, and the half of the rulers with me:
40 So both choirs of those who gave thanks stood in the house of God, and I and half of the officials with me;
40 The two choirs then took their places in The Temple of God. I was there with half of the officials,
40 So the two thanksgiving choirs stood in the house of God, likewise I and the half of the rulers with me;
40 The two choirs that were giving thanks then proceeded to the Temple of God, where they took their places. So did I, together with the group of leaders who were with me.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Nehemiah 12:40
Commentary on Nehemiah 12:27-43
(Read Nehemiah 12:27-43)
All our cities, all our houses, must have holiness to the Lord written upon them. The believer should undertake nothing which he does not dedicate to the Lord. We are concerned to cleanse our hands, and purify our hearts, when any work for God is to pass through them. Those that would be employed to sanctify others, must sanctify themselves, and set themselves apart for God. To those who are sanctified, all their creature-comforts and enjoyments are made holy. The people greatly rejoiced. All that share in public mercies, ought to join in public thanksgivings.