(1) В¶ And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to dwell in other cities. (2) And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem.
It doth not appear what was the cause that the generality of the people were averse to live in Jerusalem. (As it was the holy city, one might have expected that they would have been more eager to have fixed their residence there, than in the distant villages or lesser towns of Israel). Probably the fear of the enemies of Israel, or the apprehension of the Persian power, under which they were in tribute. Certain it is, however, that those who volunteered to live there were considered true patriots, and had the blessing of the people. Reader! even now it requires much grace to step forward in the cause of Jesus, and declare ourselves to be volunteers in his cause.