²² as the time when the Jews got relief^(A) from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration.^(B) He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food^(C) to one another and gifts to the poor.^(D)

¹¹ And rejoice^(A) before the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name^(B)—you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, the Levites^(C) in your towns, and the foreigners,^(D) the fatherless and the widows living among you.^(E)

¹⁴ Be joyful^(A) at your festival—you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levites, the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns.

¹⁰ Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing^(A) prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy^(B) of the Lord is your strength.”