12:35, 36 How could the priests have used David’s original musical instruments? David had instituted music as a part of worship in the Temple, and so his instruments had probably been stored there. Although Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the Temple, he took many Temple items back to Babylon with him (2 Chronicles 36:18). These were most likely preserved in Babylon and given back to the Israelites by Cyrus when they returned to their land (Ezra 1:7-11).
12:35, 36 The trumpet that earlier was a tool to rally the workers against a potential threat (4:18) now became one of the instruments used to celebrate the completion of a task, the rededication of the people, and praise to God. Not only had he written powerful psalms, King David also had instituted music as part of worship in the Temple. Although Nebuchadnezzar had destroyed the Temple, he couldn’t destroy worship or the music that served that purpose so well. The reconstruction of the Temple and the walls signaled the worship band to start playing again with gusto!
12:44 Further arrangements were made for supporting those who served at the Temple. These chambers were administered by men who made sure the tithes and contributions were collected and distributed appropriately. These chambers had to be large to hold all the grain presented by the people. This storeroom administration was an important responsibility.
12:44-47 The dedication of the city wall was characterized by joy, praise, and singing (12:24, 27-29, 35, 36, 40-43). Nehemiah repeatedly mentioned David, who began the custom of using choirs in worship. In David’s day, Israel was a vigorous, God-fearing nation. These exiles who had returned wanted their rebuilt Jerusalem to be the hub of a renewed nation, strengthened by God; therefore, they dedicated themselves and their city to God.