1 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel.
2 And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built.
3 The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars.
4 And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. Next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired.
5 And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord.
6 Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars.
7 And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River.
8 Next to him Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, goldsmiths, repaired. Next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, repaired, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall.
9 Next to them Rephaiah the son of Hur, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired.
10 Next to them Jedaiah the son of Harumaph repaired opposite his house. And next to him Hattush the son of Hashabneiah repaired.
11 Malchijah the son of Harim and Hasshub the son of Pahath-moab repaired another section and the Tower of the Ovens.
12 And next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters.
13 Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars, and repaired a thousand cubits of the wall, as far as the Dung Gate.
14 And the Dung Gate repaired Malchijah the son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem. He rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars.
15 And Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it and covered it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And he built the wall of the Pool of Shelah of the king’s garden, as far as the stairs that go down from the city of David.
16 After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, ruler of half the district of Beth-zur, repaired to a point opposite the tombs of David, as far as the artificial pool, and as far as the house of the mighty men.
17 After him the Levites repaired, Rehum the son of Bani. Next to him Hashabiah, ruler of half the district of Keilah, repaired for his district.
18 After him their brothers repaired Bavai, the son of Henadad, ruler of half the district of Keilah.
19 Next to him Ezer the son of Jeshua, ruler of Mizpah, repaired another section opposite the ascent to the armory at the buttress.
20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai repaired another section, from the buttress to the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest.
21 After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired another section, from the door of the house of Eliashib to the end of the house of Eliashib.
22 And after him the priests, the men of the surrounding area, made repairs.
23 After them Benjamin and Hasshub repaired opposite their house. After them Azariah the son of Maaseiah, son of Ananiah, repaired beside his own house.
24 After him Binnui the son of Henadad repaired another section, from the house of Azariah to the buttress and to the corner.
25 Palal the son of Uzai repaired opposite the buttress and the tower projecting from the upper house of the king at the court of the guard.
26 And the temple servants living on Ophel repaired to a point opposite the Water Gate on the east and the projecting tower.
27 After them the Tekoites repaired another section opposite the great projecting tower as far as the wall of Ophel.
28 Above the Horse Gate the priests repaired, each one opposite his own house.
29 After them Zadok the son of Immer repaired opposite his own house. And after him Shemaiah the son of Shecaniah, the keeper of the East Gate, repaired.
30 After him Hananiah the son of Shelemiah and Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph repaired another section. After him Meshullam the son of Berechiah repaired opposite his chamber.
31 After him Malchijah, one of the goldsmiths, repaired as far as the house of the temple servants and of the merchants, opposite the Muster Gate, and to the upper chamber of the corner.
32 And between the upper chamber of the corner and the Sheep Gate the goldsmiths and the merchants repaired.
The True Meaning of Nehemiah 3
The book of Nehemiah was written by the prophet Nehemiah, who served as a cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. Nehemiah was a Jew living in exile, and he was deeply concerned about the state of his homeland, Jerusalem, which had fallen into ruin after the Babylonian conquest. Nehemiah describes the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem in this chapter, a monumental task that required the coordinated efforts of the entire community. The chapter provides a detailed account of the various groups and individuals who took on the responsibility of restoring the city’s defenses, each working on a specific section of the wall. The people of Jerusalem came together to fulfill Nehemiah’s vision of rebuilding the city despite facing opposition and challenges as we read through this chapter. This unity and determination echo the words of the psalmist, who declared, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1).
The rebuilding of the walls was not just a physical task; it was a symbol of the restoration of the Jewish people and their relationship with God. We will witness the community’s commitment to the task, their willingness to overcome obstacles, and their reliance on the guidance of the Lord as the work progresses.
Nehemiah 3:1-5
The focus in Nehemiah 3:1-5 is on the actual rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. The first verse describes Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests starting the work of rebuilding the Sheep Gate. This specific gate was significant because it was where sheep and other sacrificial animals were brought into the city for offerings at the Temple. The fact that the high priest himself is mentioned as taking part in the physical work of rebuilding emphasizes the importance and urgency of the task at hand.
Next, we see the men of Jericho mentioned, and the Bible specifically notes that their leader, Zaccur, son of Imri, was involved in the rebuilding efforts. This detail illustrates the unity and commitment of the people of Jericho to the restoration of Jerusalem’s defenses. It is essential to note that the people from Jericho, a city with a troubled past in the Bible, were now actively involved in a noble and God-honoring task. This demonstrates the transformative power of God’s grace and the willingness of individuals to repent and turn towards righteousness.
Furthermore, we read about Meremoth, son of Uriah, the son of Hakkoz, who repaired the next section of the wall. Meremoth was noted as being a goldsmith, showing that people from different professions and backgrounds came together for this cause. This unity in diversity is a powerful lesson in the body of Christ, where individuals, regardless of their backgrounds or occupations, can work together towards a common goal. Meshullam, son of Berekiah, is mentioned repairing another portion of the wall as the passage continues. The involvement of various families and leaders in the rebuilding process highlights the communal effort required for such a monumental task. It underscores the idea that everyone has a role to play in the work of the Kingdom of God. Meshullam’s dedication to rebuilding the wall serves as an example for believers today, showing that every contribution, no matter how seemingly small or insignificant, is essential in God’s eyes.
Lastly, the verse mentions Zadok, son of Baana, who zealously repaired another section of the wall next to his own house. Zadok’s commitment to rebuilding the wall near his residence not only demonstrates his personal investment in the project but also his willingness to take responsibility for the protection and restoration of his community. This act can be seen as a metaphor for believers being called to take care of and build up their spiritual homes, both individually and collectively. Various individuals, from priests to craftsmen to ordinary citizens, collaborated in the restoration of Jerusalem’s walls, as showcased in Nehemiah 3:1-5. Through their unity, dedication, and commitment to the cause, they not only rebuilt physical structures but also symbolically restored the spiritual strength and protection of the city. This passage reminds believers of the importance of working together for the advancement of God’s kingdom, each person fulfilling their unique role in the body of Christ. It emphasizes the themes of unity, diversity, service, and commitment, which remain timeless and relevant lessons for Christians today.
Other verses in the Bible that resonate with this passage include 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, which speaks about the different members of the body working together for the common good, and Ephesians 4:16, which highlights the importance of every part of the body doing its work to build up the church in love. Both these passages reinforce the idea of unity, diversity, and collaboration among believers for the edification of the faith community.
Nehemiah 3:6-12
Various groups of people worked together to repair the walls of Jerusalem, as detailed in Nehemiah 3:6-12. This passage highlights the unity, cooperation, and dedication of the Israelites under the leadership of Nehemiah in rebuilding the city’s defenses. Joiada, the son of Paseah, and Meshullam, the son of Besodeiah, worked on the Old Gate in verse 6. The Old Gate symbolizes a place of tradition and history, reflecting the importance of preserving the foundations laid by their forefathers. This section emphasizes the continuity and respect for the past, reminding us of the significance of honoring our origins and heritage. It also teaches us the value of recognizing and building upon the work of those who came before us, a principle that finds resonance in Proverbs 13:22 which states, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.”
Moving on to verses 8 and 12, we encounter Uzziel, the son of Harhaiah, and Shallum, the son of Hallohesh, who repaired another section of the wall. These men, along with their daughters, worked diligently on the walls, showcasing the involvement of entire families in the restoration process. This highlights the idea of collective responsibility and the importance of involving everyone in the community in the work of God. It mirrors the concept of unity within families that is emphasized throughout the Bible, such as in Joshua 24:15, “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. Shallum, who was not only involved in the physical labor of rebuilding the wall but was also a ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, is encountered in verse 12. This duality in his role demonstrates that leadership is not just about issuing commands from a distance but also about engaging directly in the work alongside one’s followers. It shows that true leadership involves leading by example and being actively involved in the tasks at hand. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus who emphasized servant leadership in Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Nehemiah 3:6-12 provides us with valuable lessons on unity, heritage, collective responsibility, and leadership. It underscores the importance of working together towards a common goal, drawing strength from our history, involving the whole community in the work of God, and leading with humility and dedication. These principles are timeless and applicable in various aspects of our lives, serving as a reminder of the power of unity and cooperation in accomplishing great things for the glory of God.
Nehemiah 3:13-16
Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate in Nehemiah 3:13-16. They rebuilt it and put its doors with their bolts and bars in place. They also repaired a thousand cubits of the wall as far as the Dung Gate. Malkijah, the son of Rekab, ruler of the district of Beth Hakkerem, repaired the Dung Gate. He rebuilt it and put its doors with their bolts and bars in place.”
Firstly, it is important to acknowledge the significance of the repair work being done on the walls of Jerusalem. The city’s walls were not just physical structures but also symbolic of protection, strength, and unity. The people were not just engaging in a construction project but also reaffirming their commitment to the security and well-being of their community by participating in the restoration of the walls. The act of rebuilding the walls was a tangible expression of their faith in God’s protection and provision.
Additionally, the mention of specific individuals like Hanun, the inhabitants of Zanoah, and Malkijah highlights the collaborative effort that was required in the rebuilding process. Each person had a role to play, whether it was repairing a gate, rebuilding a wall section, or ensuring the gates were securely fastened with bolts and bars. This sense of collective responsibility and shared purpose is a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and teamwork in accomplishing God’s work.
Malkijah’s role as the ruler of the district of Beth Hakkerem showcases leadership within the community. Through his example of taking on the task of repairing the Dung Gate, Malkijah demonstrates servant leadership, putting the needs of the community above his own. This act of humility and service is a lesson that resonates throughout the Bible, reminding us of Jesus’ teachings on servant leadership and selflessness.
The Dung Gate itself carries symbolic significance. The Dung Gate in biblical times signified cleansing and purification as it was where waste and impurities were removed from the city. The people were not only strengthening the physical defenses of the city but also engaging in a spiritual act of renewal and restoration by repairing the Dung Gate. This restoration process mirrors the spiritual renewal that God desires for His people, highlighting the theme of repentance, cleansing, and restoration found throughout the Bible. Nehemiah 3:13-16 serves as a powerful illustration of the cooperative effort, leadership, and spiritual symbolism embedded in the restoration of Jerusalem’s walls. Through the actions of individuals like Hanun, Malkijah, and the inhabitants of Zanoah, we see a community united in purpose, determined to rebuild and fortify their city. This passage reminds us of the timeless message of unity, service, and faith in God’s protection and provision, themes that are woven throughout the entire Bible.
Nehemiah 3:17-21
A detailed account of the wall of Jerusalem being rebuilt is seen in Nehemiah 3:17-21. Identify the subject: We
Rewritten sentence: We should break down this passage into significant sections to delve deeper into the text.
Firstly, in verse 17, we are introduced to a key figure, Eliashib, the high priest, along with his fellow priests, who are depicted as influential figures working on different sections of the wall. This highlights the collaboration between spiritual and secular leaders in the task of rebuilding the city’s defenses. It emphasizes how important it is for all members of a community to work together for a common goal, regardless of their specific roles or backgrounds. It also sets an example of how leaders should actively participate in communal tasks, showing humility and leading by example. Shallun, the son of Col-Hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, is mentioned as another pivotal character in verse 19. Shallun’s involvement in the rebuilding process signifies the commitment of political leaders to the restoration of Jerusalem. This unity between religious and civil authorities sheds light on the significance of combining faith and governance for the betterment of society. It illustrates the importance of bridges being built between different sectors of society to work towards a shared purpose.
Moving on to verse 20, we encounter a particularly inspiring episode where Baruch, son of Zabbai, zealously takes up the task of repairing the section adjacent to his house. This personal investment in the restoration project reflects a deep sense of ownership and dedication to the cause. Baruch’s initiative serves as a powerful reminder that individuals should not wait for others to bring about change, but should actively engage in making a positive difference in their communities. His example resonates in urging believers to take responsibility and be proactive in contributing to the growth and welfare of their surroundings.
Lastly, in verse 21, we find Meremoth, son of Uriah, the son of Hakkoz, who works on another section of the wall. The mention of his lineage underlines the continuity of generational efforts in the restoration of Jerusalem. It reinforces the idea that the work of rebuilding the city is not just a short-term project but a legacy to be carried forward by future descendants. This familial connection highlights the reverence towards the city’s history and the importance of passing down faith, values, and responsibilities from one generation to the next. A mosaic of diverse individuals coming together with a shared purpose to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls is showcased in Nehemiah 3:17-21. The narrative underscores the significance of unity, collaboration, leadership, personal commitment, and generational continuity in achieving communal goals. These themes resonate beyond the historical context of Nehemiah’s time, serving as timeless lessons for believers today to work harmoniously, regardless of background or status, towards the common good, actively engaging in the advancement and preservation of their communities.
Nehemiah 3:22-27
Individuals who contributed towards the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem are detailed in Nehemiah 3:22-27. The priests made repairs in front of their own houses in Verse 22. The priests were not exempt from the work of rebuilding. They took personal responsibility for repairing the section of the wall that was in front of their own homes. This highlights the importance of individual commitment and ownership in the restoration of Jerusalem. This serves as a powerful lesson for believers today, emphasizing the idea that everyone has a role to play in the work of God, regardless of their position or status.
Verses 23-24 – Next to him, Benjamin and Hasshub made repairs opposite their house. After them, Azariah the son of Maaseiah, son of Ananiah, made repairs beside his own house. Beside him, Binnui the son of Henadad repaired another section, from the house of Azariah to the buttress and to the corner. These verses exhibit a sense of community and unity among the people. Each individual worked on the part of the wall closest to their home, fostering a collective effort to restore their city. This collective effort displays the importance of working together towards a common goal, reflecting the unity of the body of Christ and the principle of cooperation emphasized in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
Verses 25-27 – Palal the son of Uzai repaired opposite the buttress and the tower projecting from the upper house of the king at the court of the guard. After him, Pedaiah the son of Parosh and the temple servants living on Ophel made repairs to a point opposite the water gate on the east and the projecting tower. Above the Horse Gate, the priests repaired, each in front of his own house. This section highlights the diversity of people involved in the rebuilding process. From priests to temple servants, each person had a specific role to play in the restoration of the city. The mention of the priests’ involvement signifies the spiritual aspect of the rebuilding process, illustrating the importance of faith in the work of rebuilding and restoration. This diverse collaboration echoes the unity in diversity concept in the church, where people with different backgrounds and gifts come together for a common purpose (Romans 12:4-5). The individuals involved in the reconstruction of Jerusalem’s walls showcased remarkable unity, dedication, and diversity in Nehemiah 3:22-27. The passage underscores the importance of individual responsibility, community collaboration, and spiritual involvement in God’s work. We, as believers, can draw inspiration from these accounts and apply the principles of commitment, unity, and diverse contributions in our own service to the Lord and His kingdom.
Nehemiah 3:28-32
Various individuals, families, and groups participated in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem under the leadership of Nehemiah, as detailed in Nehemiah 3:28-32. It is a list of contributors to this monumental task, each working on a specific section of the wall. This section provides valuable insight into the collaborative effort that went into the reconstruction of the city’s defenses. The priests made repairs above the Horse Gate in verse 28, each working on a section opposite his own house. This displays a sense of personal investment in the work they were doing. It emphasizes the idea that each person had a stake in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and was willing to put in the effort for the betterment of their community. This concept of personal responsibility and commitment to the common good is a timeless lesson that can be applied in various aspects of life, including community building, teamwork, and service.
Moving on to verses 29 and 30, we encounter another individual named Zadok, who was a goldsmith. He is mentioned alongside his daughters, who also played a role in the reconstruction efforts. This inclusion of Zadok and his daughters challenges traditional gender roles of that time, highlighting the important contributions of women in the rebuilding process. It underscores the principle that everyone has a part to play regardless of their gender or societal expectations. This aligns with biblical principles that emphasize equality and the value of every individual in God’s kingdom.
Further along in verse 30, we encounter a group of Nethinim and merchants. The Nethinim were Temple servants, dedicated to assisting the Levites in their duties, while the merchants were involved in trade and commerce. This blend of different groups coming together to work on the walls reflects the unity and diversity within the community. It shows that people from various backgrounds and occupations joined hands to achieve a common goal. This unity amidst diversity is a powerful lesson on cooperation, respect, and solidarity, echoing biblical teachings on the importance of unity among believers despite differences. Goldsmiths and merchants labored on the repairs from the house of Eliashib to the end of the house of the high priest in the concluding verses 31 and 32. The involvement of professionals such as goldsmiths indicates the diverse skills and talents that were utilized in the rebuilding efforts. It underscores the idea that God calls people with different gifts to work together for His purposes. This collaborative effort serves as a testament to the strength of communal work and the effectiveness of utilizing individual talents for a collective endeavor. It also echoes the biblical principle of the body of Christ, where each member plays a unique role for the greater good of the whole (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). Nehemiah 3:28-32 showcases the unity, diversity, and collective effort that were essential in the reconstruction of the walls of Jerusalem. It teaches us valuable lessons about personal responsibility, gender equality, unity in diversity, and the utilization of individual talents for a common purpose. This passage serves as a reminder of the power of community collaboration and the significance of working together towards a shared goal, reflecting timeless principles that are relevant for believers in every era.
After Nehemiah 3
The people worked tirelessly, each one repairing the section of the wall nearest their own home. They labored with determination, driven by a shared purpose to restore the city’s defenses. Nehemiah knew the work was far from over as the sun set on another day of progress. The challenges that lay ahead would test their resolve, but he was confident that with God’s guidance, they would overcome. For in the next chapter, we shall see how the enemies of Judah sought to undermine their efforts, and how Nehemiah rallied the people to stand firm in the face of adversity.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.