Nehemiah 8:10

Send portions. Compare Esther 9:19, 22. How appropriate it is that those who have should share with those who have little or nothing, particularly on festive occasions, in order that all may rejoice together (see Deuteronomy 16:14).

The joy of the Lord. The common opinion that the Jewish religion was gloomy and austere is erroneous. Its ritual and ceremonial regulations were indeed detailed, and certainly solemn, but there was much of joy in the services. Religious ritual requirements included sacrifices of thanksgiving, of which the larger portion was eaten by the offerer and his friends in a festal meal (Deuteronomy 27:6, 7). The Sabbath day, as originally planned, was far from the gloomy occasion some have conceived. Rather it was a day of spiritual delight, joy, and gladness (Isaiah 58:14). Of the other seasons set apart for special religious observances, on only one were the people to “afflict” their souls (Leviticus 23:27). The others were festivals for the commemoration of God’s goodness and for the offering of praise to Him.