Nehemiah 5:15

The former governors. Of these, only one, Zerubbabel, is known. It is not certain that Ezra had been appointed as governor or whether he served in the capacity of a special commissioner. Nehemiah probably refers to the several governors who had apparently failed over Judea during the 50 or 60 years between Zerubbabel and the arrival of Ezra.

Were chargeable. The words of the original are stronger and should be rendered “had oppressed” or “had been heavy” upon the people. The RSV reads “laid heavy burdens” on the people.

Beside. Literally, “after.” The Vulgate reads “daily.” Most commentators follow this interpretation, and conclude that Nehemiah’s court expenses were 40 shekels a day (334.8 g., or 10.8 oz. troy, if light shekels), and not that 40 shekels a year had been exacted from each person.

Servants bare rule. The domestic servants and lower officials of an Oriental court usually took advantage of their position to exact high fees from those who came seeking official favor. This was especially so in ancient times, where eunuchs and other retainers were often fearful tyrants. Hainan under Xerxes, Sejanus under Tiberius, and Narcissus under Claudius are classic examples of this practice.