Moreover the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel, unto the place over against the water gate toward the east, and the tower that lieth out.
Ministers must lead in good works, not follow. Eliashib and his priests took the Sheep Gate first, teaching by their labor as well as their words; they sanctified it with prayer, committing the whole city to God's protection. There is no rivalry here, only holy emulation to do most for the public good.
AI summary
Commenting on Nehemiah 3:1-32
From above the horse gate repaired the priests,.... So called, either because near it were stables for horses; or through it horses were led to be watered at the brook of Kidron, to which it was near; or to be exercised in the valley; Josephus (c) speaks of the "hippie", or horse tower, which might be near it: everyone over against his house; for it...
the Nethinims--Not only the priests and the Levites, but the common persons that belonged to the house of God, contributed to the work. The names of those who repaired the walls of Jerusalem are commemorated because it was a work of piety and patriotism to repair the holy city.