Joe: Alright, we're talking about Nehemiah 12. What can you tell us about it?

Bible Expert: Well, in this chapter we see the return of the exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. They bring with them the vessels of the temple and the leaders of the people, who are accompanied by singers and musicians.

Joe: That's awesome! So what do they do when they get there?

Bible Expert: They recommission the temple and celebrate a joyous dedication ceremony. They also set up a priestly guard to protect the city.

Joe: Wow! That sounds intense. So what else happens?

Bible Expert: Well, the leaders of the people also make a covenant to obey the law of God and the priests and Levites are given their duties and responsibilities.

Joe: That sounds like a lot of responsibility. What else?

Bible Expert: They also set up a collection system to support the temple and the priests and Levites, and they hold a great celebration to mark the occasion.

Joe: That sounds like a great way to celebrate! Anything else?

Bible Expert: Yes, they also appoint guards to protect the city and to keep out any foreigners who may want to disturb the peace.

Joe: Wow, that sounds like a great way to protect the city. Anything else?

Bible Expert: They also celebrate the Feast of Booths and dedicate the wall of Jerusalem.

Joe: That sounds like a great way to close out the chapter. Anything else we should know?

Bible Expert: Yes, they also make a record of the priests and Levites and their genealogies, as well as a list of those who had taken part in the dedication of the wall and the temple.