And all the congregation of them that were come again out of the captivity made booths, and sat under the booths: for since the days of Jeshua the son of Nun unto that day had not the children of Israel done so. And there was very great gladness.
All the people who had returned from being prisoners in foreign lands built temporary shelters and lived in them during the festival. The Israelites hadn't celebrated this way since the time of Joshua, hundreds of years earlier. There was incredible joy among everyone.
The returned exiles joyfully celebrated the Festival of Booths for the first time in centuries, experiencing tremendous happiness as they reconnected with their forgotten traditions.
📚 Historical Context
This occurred around 445 BC when Jewish exiles had returned from Babylonian captivity to rebuild Jerusalem. Under Ezra and Nehemiah's leadership, they were rediscovering their religious traditions that had been neglected or forgotten during their decades in exile. The Festival of Booths (Sukkot) commemorated Israel's wilderness wanderings and God's provision.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.