Definition: Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the book of the law of God. And they kept the feast seven days; and on the eighth day [was] a solemn assembly, according unto the manner.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 8:18. It's a really important passage about how God calls people to follow His word and remember Him. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “He kept reading the Law of God every day – from the very beginning until the end – and his followers did too. They celebrated it for seven days, then on the eighth day, they had a special gathering where they remembered God.” Let’s unpack it further: "Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day..." This means he read the law constantly – always and throughout his entire life. It wasn't just once or twice; it was a continuous process of learning and reflecting on God’s teachings. "...he read in the book of the law of God." The "law of God" refers to the instructions and rules given by God for how to live righteously. It’s about following His will. “And they kept the feast seven days…” This is a significant part! The Hebrew word “feast” meant a special time to thank God for what He had done, and to show gratitude. They held a seven-day feast – a celebration of God's blessings – to remember Him. "...and on the eighth day [was] a solemn assembly..." On the eighth day, they had a very important gathering. It wasn’t just a casual meeting; it was a dedicated time for remembrance and worship. It was a “solemn assembly” because it was a special occasion. Why is this important? This verse shows that God doesn't just give us rules – He also calls us to remember Him, to reflect on His word, and to keep the traditions of holiness. It emphasizes that following God’s law isn't about strict rules; it's about a constant relationship with Him through his teachings. In short: Nehemiah is teaching us to live a life of devotion and remembrance by consistently studying and honoring God’s Law. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Give an example of how this principle applies today?