Nehemiah 3:32

the going up, &c. see Nehemiah 3:31.

unto the sheep gate R.V. and the sheep gate. This was the starting place of the description (Nehemiah 3:1).

the goldsmiths see Nehemiah 3:8.

the merchants see Nehemiah 3:31.

The proximity of their work of restoration suggests that both goldsmiths and merchants represented communities largely and closely interested in the transactions connected with Temple offerings. For, apart from the supply and repair of vessels, furniture, and dress, required for the daily ministration, the dedication of precious things would create a constant traffic close to the Temple. The merchants would establish themselves at the main approaches to the Temple and expose their wares to the throngs of worshippers and sacrificers who collected about this spot.