Nehemiah 8:3

And he read... from the morning until the midday.

This was continued on the second day, (verse 13) and probably each day during the feast. It must be ever borne in mind that there were then no printed books, and no paper if the art of printing had been known. Parchment was scarce and costly, and hence, copies of the law, or of any work were rare. Therefore, it was needful that the greater part of the people learn by hearing, rather than by reading. Hence, during this festival, the regular gatherings of the entire body, for half of the day to listen to the reading and explanation of the law. The eagerness of the people to hear is greatly to their credit. "They were attentive unto the book of the law." How listless, indifferent and heedless are many now who gather regularly at the sanctuaries, while the Scriptures are read! Such indifference is contemptuous to God.