The pause that Ezra made before his departure, no doubt, was with a view to begin his journey in prayer. Carry us not up hence, is, or should be, the language of every truly regenerated believer, when like Moses we are about to set forth on any expedition; unless thy presence goeth with us. Exodus 33:15. Is it not a matter of great astonishment, that none of God's ministers, the Levites, should, unasked, have been forward to go, especially as Artaxerxes had granted free permission? But, Reader, do not overlook the pious conduct of Ezra on this occasion, in his anxiety to have the ministers with him for the service of the house of God.
Related Commentaries of Ezra 8:15
Ezra 8:15
15 And I gathered them together to the river that runneth to Ahava; and there abode we in tents three days: and I viewed the people, and the priests, and found there none of the sons of Levi.