These two chapters in the book of Ezra relate the rebuilding of the Jersualem city wall. Priest and scribe Ezra speaks about the workers, the redeemed people of God, nobility and commoner, laboring side-by-side while keeping their swords at the ready. Ezra's words bring life to the concept of "ora et labora", pray and work ... and are a call for unity of all members of the church.