Ver. 21. I proclaimed a fast— They had the greater reason to do this, because they carried with them things of considerable value, were apprehensive of enemies who lay in wait for them, and were ashamed to ask any guard of the king, who, being not much instructed in these matters, might possibly think, that what they said of God's favour towards them, and the prophesies concerning their restoration, were but vain boasts, if they should seem to distrust the power and favour of that God of whom they had spoken so magnificently, by making application to the king for his protection and defence. Rather, therefore, than give any such umbrage, they were resolved to commit themselves entirely to God; but then it was necessary that they should beseech that of him, which, without giving offence, they could not request of the king. See Bishop Patrick.
Related Commentaries of Ezra 8:21
Ezra 8:21
21 Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.