Nehemiah 13:19

the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark The rare word for -began to be dark" gives rise to the renderings LXX. ἡνίκα κατέστησαν πύλαι, Vulg. -cum quievissent portæ." Another suggested rendering is -had their bells rung," is very ludicrous, deriving the word from the same root as the word for -cymbals."

before the sabbath From this we should gather that the Sabbath began as soon as it was dark; not absolutely at sunset, but at the termination of the brief twilight.

gates R.V. doors.

charged R.V. commanded. Same word as in the previous clause.

servants Literally -youths," παῖδες, i.e. personal attendants, cf. Nehemiah 4:10.

at the gates R.V. over the gates, i.e. to superintend the watch.

that there should no burden, &c. The object of the watch was not to bar the free passage in and out, but only to prevent the introduction of merchandise on that day.