And cover not their iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from before thee: for they have provoked [thee] to anger before the builders.
Ver 5. And cover not their iniquity.] O fearful imprecation! Surely if they only are blessed whose sin is covered, Psalms 32:1, what shall become of those that are in a contrary condition? If pardon of sin be such a voluminous mercy, as having many other mercies bound up with it, think what a misery it is to have sin imputed; and get a cover speedily, for that abominable filth, and to God himself an eye sore.
For they have provoked thee to anger, &c.] This was it that Nehemiah so stomached; and that drew from him these dreadful imprecations, viz. God's glory, and not any self-concern: he hated and cursed non virum, sed virium, &c.