10. before these days--before the time in which ye again proceeded with the building of the temple (Zec 8:9), namely, at the time that the temple lay neglected.
      no hire for man . . . beast--that is, no produce of the field to repay the labor of man and beast on it (Hag 1:6, 9, 10; 2:16).
      neither . . . peace to him that went out or came in-- (2Ch 15:5). No one could in safety do his business at home or abroad, in the city or in the country, whether going or returning.
      because of the affliction--so sorely pressed were they by the foe outside. MAURER translates, "Because of the foe" (Ezr 4:1).
      every one against . . . neighbour--There was internal discord, as well as foes from without.

JFB.