v. 15;) but after this time they were governed by governors and judges chosen from among themselves.

John Gill's Bible Commentary

--The work was divided, so that every one might know what he had to do and mind it, with a desire to excel; yet without contention, or separate interests. No strife appears among them, but which should d most for the public good. Every Israelite should lend a hand toward the building up of Jerusalem. Let not nobles think any thing below them, by which they may advance the good of their country. Even some female helped forward the work. Some repaired over against their houses, an one repaired over against his chamber. When a general good work is to be done, each should apply himself to that part which is within his reach. If every one will sweep before his own door, the street will be clean; if every one will mend one, we shall all be mended. Some tha had first done helped their fellows. The walls of Jerusalem, in heap of rubbish, represent the desperate state of the world around, whil the number and malice of those who hindered the building, give some faint idea of the enemies we have to contend with, while executing the work of God. Every one must begin at home; for it is by getting the work of God advanced in our own souls that we shall best contribute to the good of the church of Christ. May the Lord thus stir up the heart of his people, to lay aside their petty disputes, and to disregar their worldly interests, compared with building the walls of Jerusalem and defending the cause of truth and godliness against the assaults of avowed enemies __________________________________________________________________

Original Hebrew