Definition: And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and [that] they should come [and] keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, [concerning] this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 13:22 together. It’s a really important passage about responsibility and God’s care. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that God wants something very specific done by the people of Israel – specifically, the priests (Levites) and those responsible for guarding the gates of Jerusalem. It's a call to action from God, emphasizing his involvement and protection. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves…” - This means the priests and people of Israel were instructed to be tidy and clean again. It suggests something was dirty or neglected in the past, and God wants to restore order. “…and [that] they should come [and] keep the gates…” – This is where it gets really important. The Levites are being asked to actively guard the gates of Jerusalem. Think of it like a security checkpoint - they're responsible for keeping watch and protecting the area. “To sanctify the sabbath day.” - This is the key part! "Sabbath" means a day of rest and holiness, a time when God rested and was holy. This verse says that they are to keep this day sacred . It’s about respecting the Sabbath – a time for worship and reflection – and avoiding anything that might disrupt it. “Remember me, O my God, [concerning] this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.” - This is a plea from the author of the verse. He’s expressing gratitude and asking God to protect him, even in his own life. It's a way of saying: “I know you are watching over me, and I don’t want to be harmed or destroyed.” In short, this verse is about: God’s care for Israel: He wants to keep them safe and orderly. Responsibility: The Levites have a specific duty – guarding the gates and keeping the Sabbath sacred. Gratitude: The author is thanking God for his protection and asking for mercy. Why is this important? This verse highlights that God doesn't just allow things to happen; He actively works to protect His people. It’s a reminder of our responsibility to be faithful, to honor God, and to live in accordance with his will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other parts of the Bible? Give you a quick summary of the historical context (where this passage came from)?