Nehemiah 11:2 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem. All the men that willingly offered - Some volunteered their services, which was considered a sacrifice to patriotism at that time, as Jerusalem afforded very few advantages, and was a place of considerable danger; hence the people spoke well of them, and no doubt prayed for God's blessing upon them.