This confession is found throughout the Bible (1 Chronicles 16:34; 2 Chronicles 7:3; Psalm 100:5; Psalm 106:1; Psalm 107:1; Psalm 118:1; Psalm 136:1). Here in Ezra, this is the climactic confession of the people of Israel when they see the foundation has been laid. It is the moment they have been looking forward to ever since they were allowed to go back to Jerusalem. Finally, after many years in exile, they can look forward to worshipping God again at his temple. Even if the temple has not yet been completed, the fact that the foundation (very important part of rebuilding) has been laid is an occasion of joyous celebration.
11 And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the LORD, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever toward Israel.”And all the people shouted with a great shout when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.