So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.
We have here an account of a solemn religious assembly, and the good work that was done in that assembly, to the honour of God and the edification of the church. I. The time of it was the first day of the seventh month, Neh 8:2.
Commenting on Nehemiah 8:1-8
So they read in the book,.... Ezra and those with him; he first began to read and expound, and when weary they relieved him, and did the same: in the law of God distinctly; which was the book they read in, and which they read plainly and intelligibly, so as to be heard and understood; this seems to respect the clear and distinct pronunciation of...
So they read in the book - For an explanation of this verse, see the observations at the end of the chapter, Neh 8:17 (note).