The intention is to compare the religious activity and strictness of Nehemiah’s time with that which had prevailed under Zerubbabel, as described b…

Divine arrangements.

And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days of
Nehemiah, gave the portions of the singers …

When the solemnities of a thanksgiving day leave such impressions on ministers and people that both are more careful and cheerful in doing their du…