There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards. We have borrowed money - This should be read, We have borrowed money for the king's tribute on our lands and vineyards. They had a tax to pay to the Persian king in token of their subjection to him, and though it is not likely it was heavy, yet they were not able to pay it.
Related Commentaries of Nehemiah 5:4
Nehemiah 5:4
4 There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards.