1 Now the leaders of the people lived in Jerusalem. And the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of ten to live in Jerusalem the holy city, while nine out of ten remained in the other towns.
2 And the people blessed all the men who willingly offered to live in Jerusalem.
3 Now these are the chiefs of the province who lived in Jerusalem; but in the towns of Judah everyone lived on his property in their towns: Israel, the priests, the Levites, the temple servants, and the descendants of Solomon’s servants.
4 And at Jerusalem lived certain of the sons of Judah and of the sons of Benjamin.
5 and Maaseiah the son of Baruch, son of Col-hozeh, son of Hazaiah, son of Adaiah, son of Joiarib, son of Zechariah, son of the Shilonite.
6 The sons of Perez who lived in Jerusalem were 468 valiant men.
7 And these are the sons of Benjamin: Sallu the son of Meshullam, son of Joed, son of Pedaiah, son of Kolaiah, son of Maaseiah, son of Ithiel, son of Jeshaiah.
8 And after him Gabbai, Sallai, nine hundred twenty-eight.
9 And Joel the son of Zichri was their overseer; and Judah the son of Hassenuah was second over the city.
10 Of the priests: Jedaiah the son of Joiarib, Jachin,
11 Seraiah the son of Hilkiah, son of Meshullam, son of Zadok, son of Meraioth, son of Ahitub, ruler of the house of God,
12 And their brothers who did the work of the house were 822; and Adaiah the son of Jeroham, son of Pelaliah, son of Amzi, son of Zechariah, son of Pashhur, son of Malchijah,
13 and his brothers, heads of fathers’ houses, 242; and Amashsai, the son of Azarel, son of Ahzai, son of Meshillemoth, son of Immer,
14 and their brothers, mighty men of valor, 128;
15 Now from the Levites: Shemaiah the son of Hasshub, son of Azrikam, son of Hashabiah, son of Bunni;
16 and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, were over the outside work of the house of God;
17 and Mattaniah the son of Mica, son of Zabdi, son of Asaph, who was the leader to begin the thanksgiving in prayer, and Bakbukiah, the second among his brothers, and Abda the son of Shammua, son of Galal, son of Jeduthun.
18 All the Levites in the holy city were 284.
19 Also the gatekeepers, Akkub, Talmon and their brothers, who kept watch at the gates, were 172.
20 The rest of Israel, with the priests and the Levites, were in all the towns of Judah, every one in his inheritance.
21 But the temple servants living on Ophel repaired to a point opposite the Water Gate on the east and the projecting tower.
22 The overseer of the Levites in Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani, son of Hashabiah, son of Mattaniah, son of Mica, of the sons of Asaph, the singers, over the work of the house of God.
23 For there was a command from the king concerning them, and a fixed provision for the singers, as every day required.
24 Pethahiah the son of Meshezabel, of the sons of Zerah the son of Judah, was at the king’s side in all matters concerning the people.
25 And as for the villages, with their fields, some of the people of Judah lived in Kiriath-arba and its villages, and in Dibon and its villages, and in Jekabzeel and its villages,
26 in Jeshua, in Moladah, in Beth-pelet,
27 And in Hazor-hadattah, Nobah, Ananiah,
28 in Ziklag, in Meconah and its villages,
29 and at En-rimmon, Zorah, Jarmuth,
30 Zanoah, Adullam, and their villages, Lachish and its fields, Azekah and its villages. So they encamped from Beersheba to the Valley of Hinnom.
31 The people of Benjamin also lived from Geba onward, at Michmash, Aija, Bethel and its villages,
32 And at Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah,
33 Hazor, Ramah, Gittaim,
34 in Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah,
35 in Lodebar, and its villages, and in Jether, and in Eshtemoa, with their pasturelands,
36 in all, 1,760 of the priests’ sons were heads of fathers’ houses. And Zadok, a young man mighty in valor, and twenty-two of his own relatives.
The True Meaning of Nehemiah 11
The book of Nehemiah was written by the prophet Nehemiah, who served as a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. Nehemiah was a dedicated servant of God, tasked with rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and restoring the spiritual life of the people. Nehemiah outlines the repopulation of Jerusalem in this chapter as the exiles return from Babylon to their ancestral homeland. The chapter provides a detailed census of the people, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong presence in the holy city. This passage foreshadows the challenges the Israelites will face as they seek to reestablish their community and worship in the face of opposition from their neighbors.
The chapter also draws connections to other biblical narratives, such as the book of Ezra, which chronicles the earlier return of the exiles and the rebuilding of the temple. Nehemiah’s efforts to revitalize Jerusalem’s population echo the themes of restoration and renewal that are central to the post-exilic period.
Nehemiah 11:1-2
The leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem, as we read in Nehemiah 11:1-2. The rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten of them to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the remaining nine were to stay in their own towns. The people commended all who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.” This passage marks a significant moment in the rebuilding and restoration of Jerusalem after the exiles had returned from Babylon.
The leaders of the people, who were crucial in carrying out the work of rebuilding the city walls and reestablishing the city’s infrastructure, chose to settle in Jerusalem. Their decision to reside in the holy city demonstrated their commitment to the restoration of Jerusalem as the central place for the worship of God. Their leadership and presence served as an example for the rest of the people to follow.
The method used to determine who would reside in Jerusalem further exemplifies the willingness and dedication of the people to ensure that the city was inhabited. The casting of lots, a common method in the Old Testament for making decisions in the presence of God (Proverbs 16:33), was used to select individuals to live in Jerusalem. Those chosen would have to leave their comfortable lives in their own towns to be part of the city’s restoration.
The volunteers who stepped forward to live in Jerusalem are commended for their willingness to sacrifice their personal comforts for the greater good of the city and its people. Their voluntary choice to live in Jerusalem reflects a spirit of selflessness and dedication to the rebuilding efforts. This act of volunteering showcases their faith in God’s plan for the restoration of Jerusalem and their desire to be actively involved in fulfilling that plan.
This passage in Nehemiah 11 serves as a reminder of the importance of commitment, sacrifice, and willingness to serve in God’s work. The actions of the leaders, the selection process, and the volunteers all highlight the themes of obedience, service, and community found throughout the Bible. It underscores the idea that God’s kingdom work often requires individuals to step out in faith, leaving behind comfort and convenience for the sake of advancing His purposes. We too are called to be willing instruments in God’s hands, ready to serve wherever He may lead us, just as the volunteers in Jerusalem were commended.
Nehemiah 11:3-6
The text in Nehemiah 11:3-6 states that the provincial leaders who settled in Jerusalem included some Israelites, priests, Levites, temple servants, and descendants of Solomon’s servants living in the towns of Judah, each on their own property in the various towns, while other people from both Judah and Benjamin lived in Jerusalem.”
This passage provides a list of the provincial leaders who settled in Jerusalem at the time of Nehemiah. It gives a detailed account of the descendants of Judah who were living in Jerusalem and sheds light on their lineage. The mention of Judah is significant because it signifies the importance of the tribe of Judah in the history of Israel. Judah was one of the twelve tribes of Israel and eventually became the royal tribe from which King David and the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would come.
The detailed genealogy provided in these verses serves to establish the lineage and heritage of the people living in Jerusalem. It shows a sense of order, organization, and continuity among the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of knowing and preserving one’s ancestry. This emphasis on genealogy reflects the biblical theme of heritage and lineage that is prevalent throughout the Old Testament. Understanding one’s lineage was crucial for the Israelites as it connected them to their past, their land, and ultimately to God’s covenant promises.
Furthermore, the fact that people from both Judah and Benjamin lived in Jerusalem highlights the unity and solidarity among the tribes of Israel. Despite their historical differences, here they are united in rebuilding Jerusalem and re-establishing their community. This unity among the tribes reflects the biblical principle of unity and cooperation among believers. Believers are urged in verses such as Ephesians 4:3 in the New Testament to “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Nehemiah 11:3-6 provides historical and genealogical insights into the people who settled in Jerusalem. It emphasizes the significance of lineage, unity among the tribes of Israel, and the importance of understanding one’s heritage. This passage serves as a reminder for us to value our roots, work together in unity, and stand firm in our faith, just as the Israelites did in rebuilding Jerusalem.
Nehemiah 11:7-9
Certain individuals in the reestablished community of Jerusalem after the restoration of the walls are the focus of Nehemiah 11:7-9. Let’s break down this passage into its important sections and dive into the commentary for each part. Sallu, the son of Meshullam, is mentioned among others in verse 7. Sallu was one of the priests who returned from exile in Babylon. The mentioning of his name here is significant as it highlights the importance of the roles of priests in the community of Jerusalem. Priests played a crucial role in leading the religious and spiritual aspects of the people’s lives. Priests in the Bible were the intermediaries between God and the people, offering sacrifices and prayers on behalf of the community. This underscores the emphasis on the spiritual revival that Nehemiah was striving to bring about in Jerusalem.
Moving on to verse 8, it introduces a Levite named Jeshua. Levites were a tribe designated for religious service, assisting the priests in their duties. Jeshua’s presence here signifies the involvement of the Levites in the religious practices and rituals of the community. Throughout the Bible, Levites were entrusted with various responsibilities related to the functioning of the tabernacle and later the temple. They were instrumental in leading worship, teaching the law, and serving as musicians and gatekeepers. The passage highlights the importance of the Levites in upholding the religious traditions within the restored community by mentioning Jeshua. Joel, the son of Zicri, is mentioned in verse 9 as the overseer of the outward work of the city. This role likely involved overseeing the maintenance and security of the city walls and gates, crucial tasks for the defense and prosperity of Jerusalem. Joel’s position underscores the significance of governance, organization, and administration in the functioning of the community. Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals like Joel who were appointed to positions of authority to ensure the well-being and safety of the people they served. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of the importance of leadership and stewardship in God’s kingdom. This passage highlights the diverse roles and responsibilities of various individuals within the community of Jerusalem. From priests and Levites overseeing religious affairs to administrators like Joel ensuring the city’s security, each person had a vital part to play in the functioning and well-being of the community. This serves as a timeless message about the importance of unity, cooperation, and the collective effort in building and maintaining God’s kingdom. The body of Christ, as described in the New Testament, depicts a unified entity with different members serving distinct functions for the greater good, just as each member of the community had a specific role to fulfill in Jerusalem (1 Corinthians 12:12-31).
Nehemiah 11:10-14
The passage in Nehemiah 11:10-14 lists the Levites who dwelt in Jerusalem during Nehemiah’s leadership. Starting with Jeshua, the son of Azaniah, and his descendants, the text mentions nine other Levite leaders. These Levites were responsible for the spiritual leadership and service in the Temple, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors who served in the holy sanctuary.
The Levites held a crucial role in the religious life of Israel. They were set apart for the service of God, assisting the priests in various duties related to the worship at the tabernacle and later at the Temple. Their tasks included teaching the Law, leading worship, and maintaining the sacred vessels and the Temple itself. Throughout the Bible, we see instances of the Levites faithfully carrying out their duties, emphasizing the importance of dedication, humility, and service in God’s Kingdom.
Jeshua, specifically mentioned in this passage, was a common name among the priests and Levites. One prominent figure with the same name is Joshua, the successor of Moses who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. His leadership qualities, courage, and obedience to God’s commands are highlighted in the book of Joshua, serving as an inspiration for leaders in both ancient times and today. While it is unclear if the Jeshua in Nehemiah 11 is the same as the Joshua of old, the name itself carries a legacy of faithful service to God.
This list of Levites in Nehemiah 11:10-14 reminds readers of the importance of honoring and supporting those who are called to serve in leadership within the church and community. The Levites’ commitment to their responsibilities despite challenges and opposition also serves as a model for believers to persevere in their own callings, trusting in God’s strength and guidance. It underscores the principle that every role within the body of Christ, whether seen or unseen, plays a vital part in the functioning of God’s Kingdom.
The passage also echoes the concept of spiritual inheritance and continuity within families, as the descendants of Jeshua continued the legacy of serving in the Temple. This theme of passing down faith and values from one generation to the next is emphasized throughout the Bible, encouraging parents and leaders to nurture and equip the upcoming generations to carry on the work of the Lord. Believers today are called to be steadfast and unwavering in their service to God and others, knowing that their labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Nehemiah 11:15-18
The priests, the Levites, the gatekeepers, the singers, the temple servants, and all who have separated themselves from the peoples of the lands to the Law of God, their wives, their sons, their daughters, all who have knowledge and understanding, join with their brothers, their nobles, and enter into a curse and an oath to walk in God’s Law that was given by Moses the servant of God, and to observe and do all the commandments of the Lord our Lord and his rules and his statutes. A significant gathering of people committed to following God’s law and staying true to their faith is seen in this passage. The mention of the priests, Levites, gatekeepers, singers, and temple servants highlights the various roles within the religious community of Israel. These were important positions responsible for the functioning of the temple and the spiritual well-being of the people. Their dedication to upholding the law of God set them apart from those who had strayed from the teachings and traditions.
The verse emphasizes the importance of separation from the peoples of the lands and a commitment to the Law of God. This separation was not about isolation but about maintaining their distinct identity as a chosen people of God. It was a call to remain faithful to the covenant established with their ancestors and to uphold the teachings that were passed down through Moses, the servant of God.
The act of entering into a curse and an oath was a solemn pledge taken by the people to uphold God’s law. It symbolized their willingness to face consequences if they were to break their commitment and was a demonstration of their dedication to living according to the commandments, rules, and statutes of the Lord. This act was not taken lightly and carried significant weight in reinforcing the importance of obedience and faithfulness.
This passage serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of living in accordance with God’s word and staying separate from the ways of the world. It speaks to the value of communal commitment to faith and the necessity of upholding the teachings handed down through generations. The unity displayed among the priests, Levites, and other members of the community showcases the strength that comes from standing together in faith and obedience to God. This unity is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the power of a community that is united in serving the Lord, as seen in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 and 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.
Nehemiah 11:19-21
These verses in Nehemiah 11:19-21 provide a glimpse into the dedication of the Levites and the responsibilities they held in Jerusalem. Let’s break down these verses further:
Verse 19 mentions three key individuals: Akkub, Talmon, and their brethren. These were Levites who lived in Jerusalem and were entrusted with specific duties within the temple. The Levites played a crucial role in maintaining the worship practices and rituals as prescribed by God in the Old Testament. They were responsible for tasks such as singing, playing music, and assisting the priests in the Temple worship. The verse emphasizes the importance of each member fulfilling their appointed roles in the service of God by highlighting these individuals. This underscores the biblical principle found in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, where the apostle Paul compares the church to a body, with each member having a unique function necessary for the body’s overall health and effectiveness.
Verse 20 mentions a man named Zechariah son of Jonathan, who was responsible for overseeing the outside work of the house of God. This task likely involved maintenance and upkeep of the physical structure of the temple and its surrounding areas. Zechariah’s role highlights the importance of diligent service even in tasks that may seem less glamorous or prominent. Paul encourages believers in 1 Corinthians 15:58 to be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that their labor is not in vain. Zechariah’s faithfulness in his duties, no matter how seemingly small, exemplifies this principle.
Verse 21 mentions Mattaniah, a Levite who was in charge of the thanksgiving songs. Thanksgiving was an integral part of worship in the Old Testament, with the Israelites offering praise and gratitude to God for His provision and faithfulness. Mattaniah’s role in leading the thanksgiving songs signifies the importance of a grateful heart in worship. This aligns with verses like Psalm 100:4, which instructs believers to enter God’s presence with thanksgiving and praise. Mattaniah’s position also serves as a reminder to modern-day Christians to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in all circumstances, as seen in passages like 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Nehemiah 11:19-21 sheds light on the roles and responsibilities of the Levites in Jerusalem, emphasizing the significance of each individual’s contribution to the worship and service of God. These verses underscore the importance of faithfulness, diligence, and gratitude in serving the Lord, principles that remain timeless and relevant for believers today.
Nehemiah 11:22-24
Verses 22-24 of Nehemiah 11 state, “The overseer of the Levites in Jerusalem was Uzzi son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Mica. Uzzi was one of Asaph’s descendants, who were the musicians responsible for the service of the house of God. The singers were under the king’s orders, which regulated their daily activity. Pethahiah son of Meshezabel, one of Zerah’s descendants, the son of Judah, was the king’s agent in all matters concerning the people.”
These verses highlight the roles of Uzzi and Pethahiah within the community of Jerusalem during the time of Nehemiah’s leadership. Uzzi was overseeing the Levites in Jerusalem, particularly the musicians descended from Asaph, who were responsible for the service of the house of God. Asaph’s descendants were skilled musicians and played an important role in leading worship and ceremonies. Their lineage can be traced back through generations, emphasizing the significance of their heritage in carrying out their duties in the temple.
The mention of the singers being under the king’s orders to regulate their daily activity shows the importance of structure and organization within the community. It also highlights the relationship between the religious and secular authorities, with the king having a role in overseeing the activities related to worship and service in the temple.
Pethahiah, on the other hand, served as the king’s agent in all matters concerning the people. This position would have involved ensuring the welfare of the people, managing disputes, and carrying out the king’s decrees among the population. Pethahiah’s lineage is traced back to Zerah, a descendant of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This lineage is significant as it connects Pethahiah to the prestigious ancestry of Judah, emphasizing his role and responsibilities within the community.
These verses demonstrate the importance of order, structure, and service within the community of Jerusalem. They also highlight the significance of heritage and lineage in the roles individuals played within the religious and administrative spheres. The presence of these figures echoes the theme of leadership and delegation seen throughout the Bible, where individuals are called to serve according to their gifts and ancestral lineage, contributing to the overall welfare and functioning of the community. These verses align with the biblical principles of service, leadership, and the importance of carrying out tasks assigned to us faithfully in a broader context. They remind us of the value of honoring our heritage and using our talents to serve God and others. Additionally, they emphasize the significance of working together as a community, each fulfilling our unique roles for the greater good, a theme reiterated in the New Testament in passages like Romans 12:4-5, which speaks of believers as one body with many members, each with different functions but united in Christ.
Nehemiah 11:25-30
Some of the people of Judah lived in Kiriath-arba and its villages, and in Dibon and its villages, and in Jekabzeel and its villages, and in Jeshua and in Moladah and Beth-pelet, in Hazar-shual, in Beersheba and its villages, in Ziklag, in Meconah and its villages, in En-rimmon, in Zorah, in Jarmuth, Zanoah, Adullam, and their villages, Lachish and its fields, and Azekah and its villages. So they encamped from Beersheba to the Valley of Hinnom.”
This section of the verse details the villages and lands inhabited by the people of Judah during the time of Nehemiah’s leadership in Jerusalem. The list of villages mentioned here highlights the territories that were being repopulated by the returning exiles as part of the restoration efforts to rebuild and reestablish the land of Judah.
Kiriath-arba, known as Hebron, held historical significance as the place where Abraham purchased a burial cave for his wife Sarah (Genesis 23). Dibon, Jekabzeel, and Moladah were towns in the southern region of Judah. Beersheba was a well-known city in the Negev desert and was associated with figures like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 21-28). Ziklag was a city that David was given by the Philistine king Achish (1 Samuel 27) before he became king of Judah. Lachish and Azekah were cities with strategic military importance in ancient times.
This enumeration of the various towns and villages not only serves as a geographic record of the repopulation effort but also signifies the dedication of the people of Judah to inhabit and cultivate the lands that were once a desolate reminder of their exile. The mention of Beersheba to the Valley of Hinnom signifies the extent of the territories that were being reclaimed and revitalized. This section reflects the importance of resettling and rebuilding after a period of devastation in a broader sense. It symbolizes the restoration of God’s people and the fulfillment of His promises to them. It also speaks to the resilience and faith of the Israelites in reclaiming and reviving the land that was central to their identity as God’s chosen people. The act of reestablishing these towns and villages was not just about physical resettlement but also about renewing their spiritual connection to the land that was part of their heritage and covenant with God.
Nehemiah 11:31-36
Nehemiah 11:31-36 reads, “The descendants of Benjamin from Geba lived in Michmash, Aija, Bethel and its settlements, in Anathoth, Nob and Anania, in Hazor, Ramah and Gittaim, in Hadid, Zeboim and Neballat, in Lod and Ono, and in the Valley of the Craftsmen. Some of the divisions of the Levites of Judah settled in Benjamin. The passage shows a list of various towns and settlements where the descendants of Benjamin resided. This detailed account of the cities they inhabited showcases the tribal allocation of land and settlement in Judah. These specific cities were places of dwelling for the tribe of Benjamin, demonstrating the fulfillment of God’s promise to give each tribe a portion of the land. This allocation also symbolizes the importance of community and belonging within the Israelite society, where each tribe had its place and purpose within the larger framework of the nation.
Highlighting the Levites settling in Benjamin further emphasizes the unity among the tribes of Israel. The Levites, known for their service in the temple and spiritual leadership roles, were strategically placed throughout the tribes to ensure the people had access to religious instruction, guidance, and the proper worship of God. The collaboration between the tribes and the Levites exemplifies the interconnectedness of the Israelite society and reinforces the idea of a united community working together for the greater good.
This passage reminds us of the importance of unity, community, and organization within the body of believers. Every individual has a part to play in the broader community of faith, just as each tribe had its designated place and role in Israel. The diverse talents, skills, and abilities of each person contribute to the overall well-being and functioning of the church, highlighting the biblical principle of unity in diversity. This concept is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, where the church is likened to a body with many parts, each vital for its proper function. The detailed account of the settlements of the descendants of Benjamin in Nehemiah 11:31-36 serves as a reminder of the significance of tribal allocation, community cohesion, and the role of the Levites in maintaining religious order. This passage underscores the timeless truths of unity, collaboration, and the importance of each individual’s contribution within the broader context of God’s divine plan for His people.
After Nehemiah 11
The people of Jerusalem had been diligently working to rebuild the city walls. Now, with the walls completed, Nehemiah turned his attention to the task of repopulating the city. He called for volunteers to come and live within the walls of Jerusalem, to make it a thriving and vibrant community once more. Nehemiah recognized the need for strong leadership and organization as the people gathered. He carefully selected individuals to take on key roles and responsibilities, ensuring that the city would be well-governed and cared for. With a renewed sense of purpose and unity, the people of Jerusalem looked towards the future with hope and determination.
Yet, even as the city began to flourish, Nehemiah knew that the true test would come in the days and weeks ahead. For the enemy still lurked, waiting to undermine the progress that had been made. It would take vigilance, faith, and the unwavering commitment of the people to ensure that Jerusalem would stand strong in the face of any challenge.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.