Definition: On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:1. It's a really important warning about how we should treat people who are different from us. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that God is sending a message to the people of Israel – specifically, to the Israelites – that they shouldn’t invite people from Ammonite and Moab (two groups of people who were often seen as rivals or enemies) into their gatherings. Let's unpack it further: “On that day…” This refers to a specific event in the past. It’s not about something happening now . “…they read in the book of Moses…” This means the message was revealed through the words of Moses, which is a very important figure in Jewish tradition and history. “…in the audience of the people…” This tells us that this message wasn’t just being read aloud; it was being seen and heard by everyone present. “…and therein was found written…” This is the core of the verse – a specific instruction or law was discovered within the book of Moses. “That the Ammonite and Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever.” This is the key part. It means that these two groups of people are forbidden from being part of Israel’s religious gatherings, and they shouldn't ever be invited to participate in worship or ceremonies. It implies a permanent separation – a complete exclusion. What does this mean practically? This verse is about acceptance, inclusivity, and boundaries. It reminds us that God values unity and doesn’t want division among his people. It encourages us to be welcoming and inclusive of everyone, but also to keep those who are different from us separate and not part of our community. Why is this important? It highlights a fundamental principle in the Bible: God wants us to treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or beliefs. It’s about recognizing that we're all part of God’s creation and should be welcomed within his presence. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Nehemiah? Discuss the significance of this verse in a specific context (like Jewish history)? Or, would you like me to give you some examples of how this principle applies to our lives today?

Definition: And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given [them]: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:10. It's a really important piece about how God values His people and how He wants to protect them. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is concerned that the Levites – those who were responsible for leading worship, singing, and performing other important tasks within the Jewish community – weren't getting enough money or resources. They were leaving their jobs and moving to their own farms and fields. Let’s unpack it further: “And I perceived that…” - This is a key part. It means Nehemiah saw something that made him realize something was wrong. He wasn't just noticing; he perceived it as a problem. “…the portions of the Levites had not been given [them].” – This is the core of the verse. The Levites were receiving money and rewards for their work, which was crucial to the community’s well-being. They were meant to be supported and encouraged. “For the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.” – This explains why they weren't getting enough. The Levites were leaving their jobs and moving away from the community. The verse describes them fleeing to their own farms and fields. What does this tell us about God’s perspective? This verse suggests a few things: God values His people: He’s concerned about their well-being, especially those who are dedicated to serving Him. He wants to protect them: It shows that God doesn't just want to observe people; He actively protects them and ensures they remain in the community. His care extends beyond just material rewards: It highlights that God sees their work as important, even if it meant them moving away. In essence, this verse is a reminder of God’s love and protection for His people – particularly those who dedicate themselves to serving Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Connect it to a specific theme in the Bible (like faith, community, or responsibility)?

Definition: Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Nehemiah 13:11. It’s a really important verse about justice and responsibility. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Nehemiah was a leader in Jerusalem. He was trying to rebuild the city after a long period of neglect and disorder. He noticed something troubling: The house of God – a sacred place for worship – wasn’t being used properly. It was being left abandoned and forgotten. He challenged the people: Nehemiah called out the leaders, saying “Why is the house of God forsaken?” This means it's not being treated with respect or care. What did he do? He gathered them together: He brought everyone involved in the rebuilding – officials, priests, and people – together. He put them in their place: This is the crucial part! He directed them to move the buildings and furnishings back where they belonged. It was like rearranging furniture to make a space functional again. What’s the Big Message? The verse is about responsibility . It’s about caring for what God has given us. The house of God (which represents something holy, spiritual, or important) needs to be used and cared for. It's about accountability. Nehemiah was holding people accountable for their actions – in this case, neglecting the sacred space of the house of God. In a nutshell: Nehemiah was saying, "You need to take care of this place, because it’s important and deserves respect." --- Does that explanation make sense? Would you like me to: Explain another verse from the Bible? Discuss the historical context of this event? Connect it to a broader theme in the Bible (like justice, community, or worship)?

Definition: Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:12. It's a pretty straightforward instruction about how to manage money! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says: “Nehemiah brought all the people of Judah (a region that included Jerusalem and its surrounding areas) – including their corn, wine, and oil – into the storage places.” Let's unpack that a bit: Judah: This refers to the Jewish population in the area of modern-day Israel and Palestine. The Tithe: A "tithe" is a regular payment made by believers as a percentage of their wealth. It was a way for people to give back what they had to God. Think of it like paying a small amount each month or year. Corn, Wine, and Oil: These were important crops and gifts offered to God in worship. They represented blessings and gratitude. Treasuries: This refers to the places where these goods were stored – likely barns or warehouses. So, what was happening? Nehemiah was instructing the people of Judah to collect their communal wealth (corn, wine, and oil) and put it into a safe place for storage. It's important to remember this was done as part of a larger effort to rebuild the city of Jerusalem – it was a way to show God’s favor and provide resources for the community. In short, it’s a reminder that believers were responsible for managing their wealth and putting it towards something holy and worthy of God. --- Do you have any other Bible verses you'd like me to explain? Or would you like me to go into more detail about any particular aspect of this story?

Definition: And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them [was] Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office [was] to distribute unto their brethren.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:13. It's a really interesting story about how God used people to help rebuild the city of Jerusalem! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God was setting up a system where people were responsible for keeping track of and distributing resources – like money – to those who were faithful and needed them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And I made treasures over the treasuries…” : This means God started creating ways to store things. He wasn’t just giving them away, but he was organizing them so they could be protected and managed. “…Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah:…” : These are people who were already trusted and responsible for keeping records – priests, scribes, and people in the Levite community. “Next to them [was] Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah:…” : This is where it gets interesting. Hanan was a young man who was specifically tasked with this job – distributing things fairly and keeping track of who needed what. He was chosen for this role because he was trusted and reliable. “for they were counted faithful, and their office [was] to distribute unto their brethren.” : This is the key part. God said, “These people are trustworthy and responsible. Their job was to give what they had to those who needed it – to their community.” So, what's the big idea? It shows that God values loyalty and responsibility. He doesn’t just give things away; he uses people to ensure fairness and help those in need. It emphasizes that trust is important, and people should be held accountable for helping others. In a nutshell: God entrusted people with the job of keeping track of resources and distributing them fairly, making sure everyone received what they needed. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail or perhaps explore its significance within the context of the story of the rebuilding of Jerusalem?

Definition: Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:14. It’s a really important message about God’s care and protection. Here’s a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying, “God, you know I’ve done good things for your house – for the buildings, the offices, everything that belongs to you – don't forget those things! Don't erase them!” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Remember me…” : This isn’t a request for a big, dramatic declaration. It’s a simple acknowledgement of God’s presence and care. “…O my God…” : This shows reverence and acknowledges that you're talking to the divine being. "...concerning this..." : This is crucial – it’s specifically about something that happened or is happening. It’s a reminder of a past action. "...and wipe not out my good deeds…” : This is the core of the message. “Wipe out” means to erase, to destroy, to completely take away. The verse warns against this. "...that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof." : This tells us what those good deeds are . It refers to rebuilding the city walls, repairing the temple, and maintaining the administrative buildings – everything that was important to God's presence in Jerusalem. What does it mean practically? God doesn’t forget good work: It shows that God is aware of your efforts and appreciates them. It's a reminder to be careful with your actions: It encourages you to continue striving to do what is right, even when it’s difficult or takes time. It emphasizes faithfulness: It suggests that if you are diligent in following God's instructions and doing good things, He will not forget them. In essence, this verse is a reminder that God loves your efforts and cares deeply about what you do. Don't let your accomplishments fade from His memory. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Give an example of how this principle applies in our lives?

Definition: In those days saw I in Judah [some] treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all [manner of] burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and I testified [against them] in the day wherein they sold victuals.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:15. It’s a pretty serious story about a group of people and their actions during a Sabbath. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: “In those days saw I…” : This refers to a specific time in the past – likely around 200 BC. “…in Judah [some] treading wine presses on the sabbath…” : This tells us they were working in vineyards (wine presses) on a Sabbath, which was a day of rest and holy worship in Jewish tradition. They were actively harvesting grapes and figs – things that are typically reserved for religious purposes. “…and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses;” : They were collecting fruit and animals – they were actively working to produce food. “Sheaves” refers to bundles of grapes, and “lading asses” means carrying them. “which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day:” : This is the key part. They were moving these goods to Jerusalem - the center of Jewish life – on a Sabbath day. What Nehemiah Said: “I testified [against them] in the day wherein…” : This is the most important part. Nehemiah was watching and speaking to these people, and he was criticizing their behavior. He wasn’t just observing; he was saying something . “…in the day wherein they sold victuals.” : This means they were selling food – likely to give to the Temple in Jerusalem. It's a significant action that drew attention from God. In short, this verse describes a group of people who were taking goods and moving them to Jerusalem on a Sabbath day, and Nehemiah was holding them accountable for their actions. What’s the Big Message? This story is about righteousness and accountability . It highlights that even when we are resting and enjoying ourselves, we should be mindful of our actions and not engage in behavior that could harm others or disrupt God's order. It also shows Nehemiah standing up for what he believes is right. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail? For example, I can: Discuss the context of the story. Explain the significance of "Judah" – why is it important? Connect this story to broader themes of justice and obedience?

Definition: There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:16. It's a pretty interesting story about a place and its people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a town called Tyre that was established near Jerusalem. It was a busy trading post, and it wasn’t just selling things; it was selling them to the Jewish people – specifically, the Judah tribe. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “There dwelt men of Tyre…” : Tyre is a place we don’t know exactly where it is - it’s likely located near the Mediterranean Sea. It was a coastal town. “…also therein…” : This means that Tyre was a settlement within Jerusalem. “which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah” : This is the key part. "The children of Judah" refers to the Judah tribe – a group of people within the Jewish community. "Brought fish, and all manner of ware…" - this means they were selling everything they had. They were trading a huge variety of goods – things like pottery, textiles, metalwork, and more. “… unto the children of Judah” : This is important. It means they were selling these goods to the Jewish people, specifically to the Judah tribe. This was a significant act of commerce and trade that was considered sacred and important for the community. What's the Significance? This verse highlights several things: Trade and Commerce: It shows that throughout history, people have always traded goods and established settlements near cities like Jerusalem. Community & Responsibility: It also suggests a responsibility to the Jewish community. They were providing for their own people through trade. Potential for Trouble: The fact that Tyre was selling to the Judah tribe on the sabbath (Saturday) – which is a day of rest and holiness in Judaism – implies there might have been some conflict or disruption happening at that time, possibly due to the trade itself. In short, Nehemiah 13:16 describes a town near Jerusalem where merchants from Tyre were selling goods to the Jewish people, with a touch of potential tension. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?

Definition: Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing [is] this that ye do, and profane the sabbath day?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Nehemiah 13:17. It's a really important verse about justice and holding people accountable for their actions. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Nehemiah was a leader in Jerusalem who was trying to clean up the city and restore order. He was meeting with some of the powerful leaders – the nobles – and they were behaving badly. They were breaking God's Sabbath (a day of rest and holiness), and it was causing problems for everyone. What Nehemiah Said: Nehemiah calmly and firmly said to them, “This is wrong! What evil thing are you doing? You’re desecrating the holy day.” Let’s unpack it further: “I contended with…” : This means he was actively challenging and questioning their behavior. He wasn't just complaining; he was taking a stand against something they were doing that was harmful to the community and God’s purpose. “…the nobles of Judah” : This refers to a specific group of influential leaders in Jerusalem – the nobility. They held significant power and influence. "...and said unto them..." : He was speaking directly to them. "...What evil thing [is] this that ye do, and profane the sabbath day?" : This is the core of the verse. He asked them exactly what they were doing that was wrong. "Profane" means to violate something sacred or holy. “The sabbath day” refers to the Sabbath – a time for rest and worship dedicated to God. What does it mean in bigger picture terms? This verse is a call for justice and righteousness. It’s about: Protecting Sacred Things: The Sabbath is incredibly important to Jewish people, representing God's law and order. Holding People Accountable: Nehemiah wasn’t just criticizing them; he was urging them to stop their bad behavior and restore the proper standards of conduct. Moral Leadership: It highlights the importance of those who lead with integrity and stand up for what is right – even when it's difficult. In short, this verse is a warning about the dangers of sin and the need for righteous leadership. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Connect this verse to other stories in the Bible? Give you some examples of how this principle applies today?

Definition: Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:18. It’s a really important message about responsibility and how to handle sin. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is incredibly disappointed with the people of Israel – specifically, with them continuing to break His rules and show disrespect towards Him. It’s pointing out a pattern of behavior that’s causing significant trouble. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Nehemiah 13:18” : This refers to a specific event in the book of Nehemiah, which tells us about rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem after a long period of destruction. “Did not your fathers…” : This is a way of saying “Remember when…?” It’s asking if they remember a time where God was angry with them or their ancestors. “…and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city?” : This is the core of the verse. It's suggesting that God has repeatedly shown Himself to be disappointed by the Israelites’ behavior – maybe through natural disasters, poverty, or other hardships. It’s also referencing the fact that this specific city (Jerusalem) is suffering from the consequences of this disobedience. “Yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel…” : This is a crucial part. It's saying that despite God’s disappointment, the people are still actively causing trouble and anger with Him. They’re increasing the negative impact. Putting it all together – What’s the message? The verse is essentially warning about the importance of respecting God’s laws. It's telling us that: We have a responsibility to follow His rules. God gave us instructions, and we should try our best to do them. Our actions have consequences. When we break God’s rules, even unintentionally, it brings wrath – anger, punishment, and suffering – upon ourselves and others. It's not enough to just be good; we must also show reverence and obedience. We can't just try to act right; we need to actively honor God’s will through our actions and behavior. In simpler terms: God is angry with us, and we are making things worse by continuing to disrespect Him. It’s a call for repentance and a reminder that our actions have a significant impact on the world around us. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Talk about the historical context of Nehemiah? Explain what "wrath" means in this context?