Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, [that is], twelve years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor.
Ver. 14. From the time that I was appointed to be their governor] He was not ambitious of the office, nor usurped it; but was commanded to it (as the word signifieth) by the king of Persia, and clearly called to it by God Almighty. Otherwise he could have shrouded himself in willing secrecy, as good corn lieth in the bottom of the heap, and as good balsam sinketh to the bottom of the vessel.
I and my brethren have not eaten the bread, &c.] Rulers, as they are nursing fathers to the people, Isaiah 49:23, so by them they are to be nourished, and their state maintained. See 1 Kings 4:7. It is also observed, that although our Saviour Christ wrought many miracles; yet he never wrought any about honour or money, but that about tribute; rather than that should go undischarged, he commanded a fish to pay it. Hence also he saith not Date, Give, but Reddite; Give back, Give, but "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's," Matthew 22:21. And St Paul saith, ye pay tribute, as being a due debt, Romans 13:6. Nevertheless, in this great necessity Nehemiah lets go his own right, and leaveth it to others; like as the eagle is said, when she seeketh her prey, to leave a good part thereof to the birds that follow her, for the same end (Tostat. ex Plin.).