MPV Commentary

The people went out and brought branches of palm trees, as well as willows of the brook, and myrtle branches, and palms, and they made themselves booths.

Since the days of Jeshua son of Nun, the children of Israel had not done this with such enthusiasm. It's unlikely that a period of neglect like this could have occurred under Samuel, David, or other righteous leaders. In fact, there are records of its observance (1 Kings 8:2-3, 65; 2 Chronicles 7:9) and even explicit accounts (Ezra 3:4). What's meant here is that the people had never reached such a height of joyful celebration since entering Canaan.

Day by day, Ezra read from the book of God's law. This was more than what was required (Deuteronomy 31:10-12), and it stemmed from the fervor of the time.

On the eighth day, there was a grand assembly. This marked the final and most significant day of the feast (see Numbers 29:35). In later times, additional ceremonies were added to enhance the celebration (John 7:37).