Charles Ellicott Commentary Nehemiah 5:14

"Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, [that is], twelve years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor." — Nehemiah 5:14 (ASV)

I was appointed. — That he appointed me, namely, Artaxerxes.

Twelve years. — The whole narrative, so far, was written after his return from Jerusalem and on a review of his governorship; therefore, their governor in the land of Judah. The same thing might have been said of his second appointment, but that, at the time of writing, was in the future.

I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor. — At the close of the twelve years’ term, Nehemiah could say that he and his official attendants had not drawn the customary allowances from the people.