After returning from exile, the Israelites gathered to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles, a festival that commemorated their ancestors' time in the wilderness. This celebration involved building temporary shelters, which served as a physical reminder of God's provision and protection during their journey. The passage highlights that such a celebration had not occurred with such enthusiasm and participation since the days of Joshua, indicating a significant spiritual revival among the people.
The joy experienced by the Israelites was not just due to the festival itself, but also because of their renewed sense of identity and community. Having been through the hardship of exile, they were now able to come together in unity and gratitude, recognizing God's faithfulness in their lives. This moment was a powerful expression of collective worship, where the community not only remembered their past but also celebrated their present blessings. The great joy they felt underscores the importance of coming together to honor God and the transformative power of shared faith and tradition.