Ezra the priest. It was the priest's duty at this and at all times to teach the people the Word of God. See note on Deu_17:11; Deu_33:10; and compare Mal_2:7.
congregation = assembly or muster.
upon the first day, &c. This was according to the requirement of Deu_31:9-12, every seventh year. Compare Lev_23:23 - Neh_2:5).