So the Levites stilled the people Whose passions, being once raised, could not very soon be composed. Saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy Cease from weeping and mournful cries, and turn your lamentations into thanksgivings. And the people went their way to eat, &c. Their weeping was stilled, and they complied with the directions that were given them. Because they understood the words that were declared to them Because they now knew God's will, and their own duty, which they were resolved to practise. This gave them ground of hope and trust in God's mercy, and consequently of just and great joy.
Related Commentaries of Nehemiah 8:11
Nehemiah 8:11-12
11 So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved.
12 And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them.