Definition: And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Nehemiah 5:1. It's a really important story about how things went wrong in a Jewish community. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: A Problem Started: There was a big problem – people were very upset and angry with the Jewish community. The People Were Furious: The people, including their wives, started complaining and arguing against the Jewish people. They felt like they were being treated unfairly. It Wasn’t Just Anger: It wasn't just a normal disagreement. There was a lot of hurt and resentment involved. What's Happening – A Possible Explanation (This is where it gets a little more complex, but we can still grasp the core idea): Nehemiah describes this as a result of something happening to a man named Shem . He was a Jewish man who had been falsely accused of a serious crime. Because of this false accusation, the people were outraged and lashed out at the Jewish community. Key Takeaway: This verse highlights how easily anger and division can spread when there's injustice or wrongdoing. It’s a reminder that even small issues can escalate into big problems if not handled carefully. Important Note: The exact details of what happened to Shem are debated among scholars, but the core message – that negativity can arise from unjust accusations – remains consistent. --- To help me explain this verse better for you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand about this passage? (e.g., Are you curious about its historical context, or do you want a more general explanation?)

Definition: I likewise, [and] my brethren, and my servants, might exact of them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Nehemiah 5:10. It's a really important verse about dealing with people who are charging too much interest – usury. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: What’s Happening? Nehemiah is speaking to his team: He’s a leader, and he needs to make sure his people are following the rules and not taking unfair money. He's asking for a change: “I likewise… my brethren, and my servants…” – This means Nehemiah is addressing everyone involved in managing the community's resources. He’s demanding money and corn: "might exact of them money and corn" – This is the core of the problem. “Exact” means to collect or demand something. “Money” refers to coins, currency, and any kind of wealth. “Corn” refers to food – likely grain or a staple crop. He’s asking for a break: "I pray you, let us leave off this usury." - This is the most important part. He's saying, “Let's stop this practice of charging excessive interest.” What does it mean? Nehemiah is warning his people against lending money with very high interest rates. Usury (charging too much interest) was a serious problem in biblical times and was viewed as unfair and often harmful to people. It could lead to debt, poverty, and even instability within a community. The Context – Why is this important? This passage highlights a crucial theme throughout the Bible: Fairness and Justice. It shows that God values honesty and integrity in all things, especially when it comes to money. It's about creating a society where people are treated with respect and where everyone has a fair opportunity. In short, Nehemiah is saying, "Let’s be honest with our people and avoid taking unfair advantage of them." --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Provide more context about the time period this passage comes from? Discuss what “usury” was in ancient times?

Definition: Restore, I pray you, to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their oliveyards, and their houses, also the hundredth [part] of the money, and of the corn, the wine, and the oil, that ye exact of them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:11. It’s a pretty important instruction for rebuilding a city! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling the people of Jerusalem to restore (repair and rebuild) something that was lost or damaged – specifically, their land, vineyards, olive groves, and grain stores. Let’s break it down into parts: “Restore” : This means to bring things back to what they were before, or to fix them up. It's a promise of repair. “I pray you” : This is a way of saying “let us do this.” It’s a plea for them to take action. “To them, even this day” : This means they need to do it now , and not just in the future. It's about immediate action. “Their lands, their vineyards, their oliveyards, and their houses” : This refers to all of the land that belonged to the people of Jerusalem – their fields, orchards, and homes. “also the hundredth [part] of the money, and of the corn, the wine, and the oil” : This is where it gets a little more specific. It means they need to collect a portion of the money they earned from selling crops (corn, wine, and oil) and keep it for the rebuilding project. In short: The people are being asked to return what was lost or damaged – their land, their harvests, and their wealth – to the city as quickly as possible. Why is this important? This story is a key part of a larger biblical narrative about the rebuilding of Jerusalem after its exile. It’s a reminder that faith and action are needed when restoring what has been lost or damaged. It's also a call for justice and restoration – returning what was taken or neglected. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Give you a historical context about the story behind it?

Definition: Then said they, We will restore [them], and will require nothing of them; so will we do as thou sayest. Then I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they should do according to this promise.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:12. It's a really important passage about trust and responsibility. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse describes a situation where people were struggling with a problem – likely related to the rebuilding of a temple in Jerusalem. They were hesitant to help, but then made a promise to do exactly what they said. It's about taking responsibility and being reliable. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Then said they…” : This means the people who were struggling spoke up. “We will restore [them]…” : They realized they had a problem and wanted to fix it – likely because it was important to them or had caused harm. "Restore" in this context means to repair, rebuild, or make something better. “and will require nothing of them; so will we do as thou sayest.” : This is the crucial part! They promised they wouldn't ask for anything from the people anymore. They were saying, "We’ll just follow your instructions." It was a commitment to be completely obedient to what you said. “Then I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they should do according to this promise.” : This is where it gets really significant. The leader (likely Nehemiah) asked the priests – a group of religious officials – to take a solemn vow. They reaffirmed their commitment to follow what was said. So, What's the Big Takeaway? This verse highlights the importance of trust and accountability. It’s saying that when we make promises to others, it’s vital to actually do what you say, even if it seems difficult or inconvenient. It emphasizes the idea that our word is our bond – we must keep our commitments. Why is this important? This story speaks to the idea of leadership and responsibility. It reminds us that leaders should be reliable and trustworthy. It also underlines the importance of keeping your promises, as they can have significant consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Connect this passage to other Bible stories or teachings?

Definition: Also I shook my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labour, that performeth not this promise, even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. And all the congregation said, Amen, and praised the LORD. And the people did according to this promise.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:13 together. It’s a pretty interesting and slightly unsettling passage about God's power and how He can handle things. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where God is actively removing people from their lives – specifically, those who aren't fulfilling His promises. It’s like a gentle but firm nudge to redirect someone away from a path that isn’t leading them towards good things. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Also I shook my lap…” : This is an image of God taking action – He’s moving, shifting, and adjusting things. It suggests a powerful, active force at work. “…and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labour, that performeth not this promise, even thus be he shaken out, and emptied.” : This is the core of the verse. “Shake out” means to remove or discard someone. This part breaks down: “Every man from his house…” : It’s talking about everyone – all the people in the community, not just a few. “…and from his labour, that performeth not this promise…” : This means those who aren't working diligently or following God’s instructions are being removed. “This promise” refers to something God has given them (perhaps a covenant, a blessing, or a specific goal). “even thus be he shaken out, and emptied.” : This is the crucial part. It means that this person will be completely discarded – they’ll be left behind without anything left for them. They’ll be emptied of their livelihood and purpose. “And all the congregation said, Amen, and praised the LORD.” : The people were shocked and praising God. This shows that they recognized the seriousness of what was happening. It wasn't just a feeling; it was a recognition of God's power. “And the people did according to this promise.” : This is the outcome – the community did something – they acknowledged God’s power and acted in accordance with His will. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Nehemiah 5:13 is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and that He has ultimate control over people's lives. It speaks to the idea that God can gently but decisively remove those who are not following His path, leading to a shift in focus back towards righteousness. It’s a message of responsibility – we are accountable for our actions and choices, and God will hold us responsible for the consequences of our path. Important Note: It's important to remember that this verse doesn’t necessarily mean God is angry or punishing people. He simply wants to guide them back towards fulfilling His purpose. It’s a call to repentance and a reminder to live a life that honors Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss its context within the larger story of Nehemiah? Talk about what this passage might teach us about our relationship with God or with others?

Definition: Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, [that is], twelve years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:14. It’s a really important statement about leadership and obedience! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Nehemiah is saying that from the moment he was appointed to lead the people of Judah – roughly twelve years into Artaxerxes’ rule – until the time he was officially removed from that role , he and his team never ate the food provided by the king. Let's unpack it: “Nehemiah 5:14” : This is a specific verse within a larger story about rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. “Moreover…” : This word means “in addition” or “besides.” It’s an explanation. “I and my brethren…” : This refers to Nehemiah's team – his leadership group. "My brethren" means his family and helpers. “…from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king…” : This tells us exactly when this rule began. Artaxerxes was King of Persia, and he ruled over Judea (the land where Jerusalem is located). So, Nehemiah’s leadership started about 20 years before Artaxerxes' reign. “[that is], twelve years…” : This is the key part! He led for twelve years . This is a significant amount of time – it was a long period of responsibility and trust. “I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor.” : This means that Nehemiah and his team never took food from the king’s table or kitchen. They refused to eat anything he provided. What's the Significance? This story is a reminder of several important truths: Trusting Leadership: It highlights that Nehemiah was expected to be obedient to God's leadership, even when it wasn't easy. He was trusted with a huge responsibility and had to follow his instructions without question. Responsibility & Obedience: It shows the importance of obeying authority – even when it’s difficult or unpopular. It emphasizes that leaders must act in accordance with what is right and just, as God commands. In short, this verse tells us about Nehemiah's unwavering commitment to follow God's plan, even through a challenging period of leadership. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Connect this verse to a specific biblical theme (like obedience or justice)?

Definition: But the former governors that [had been] before me were chargeable unto the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of silver; yea, even their servants bare rule over the people: but so did not I, because of the fear of God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:15. It's a really important and slightly complex passage about leadership and responsibility. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it says: “But the former governors that [had been] before me were chargeable unto the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of silver; yea, even their servants bare rule over the people: but so did not I, because of the fear of God.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But the former governors that [had been] before me…” This refers to the leaders who had been in charge before Nehemiah. He’s pointing out that he wasn't the first person to do this. “…were chargeable unto the people…” This means they were being asked to pay money or taxes – essentially, to contribute to the community. “and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of silver;” This is the core of the problem. They were taking food (bread and wine) and money (silver) from the people. It was a significant amount of wealth – around 40 silver coins. “Yea, even their servants bare rule over the people…” This is where it gets interesting. The leaders were also in charge of the people – they held positions of power and authority. They were essentially ruling over them. “but so did not I, because of the fear of God.” This is the crucial part! Nehemiah says he didn't take this action. He didn’t do it out of pride or selfishness. He did it because of a deep respect for God and His laws. So, what’s the point of this verse? It highlights that leadership should always be guided by a sense of responsibility and obedience to God's will. It emphasizes that true authority comes from serving others and obeying divine law, not personal gain or power. In essence, it’s a warning against abusing power and a reminder that leaders must be humble and obedient. --- Does this explanation make sense? Would you like me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Connect this passage to other Bible stories or teachings about leadership?

Definition: Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants [were] gathered thither unto the work.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:16. It’s a really important part of understanding how he handled a difficult situation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Nehemiah was in charge of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem after it had been captured by enemies. He had a team of workers, and they were tasked with building a new wall. However, the people weren’t enthusiastic about it. They wanted to buy land, which would have made the work easier for them. What Nehemiah Did: Nehemiah decided not to sell any land for the wall project. He simply instructed his servants – a group of people he had gathered – to come and work on the wall. Essentially, he kept the construction going without giving anyone a stake in the land itself. What it Means – The Key Points: “Yea, also I continued in the work…” : This means Nehemiah kept working on the wall, even though people weren't happy about it. He didn’t stop. “…neither bought we any land…” : He deliberately didn't buy any land for the project. This was a strategic decision. “And all my servants [were] gathered thither unto the work.” : He directed his entire team – his workers – to come to this specific location (the wall construction site). Overall Meaning & Significance: This verse shows several important things: Focus on God's Will: Nehemiah was prioritizing God’s instructions and the completion of the rebuilding project. He wasn't trying to please anyone or make a profit. Trust in His Team: He trusted his servants to do their work, even if they weren't enthusiastic about it. A Clear Plan: It demonstrates a clear plan for how things would be handled - the work would continue without any complications. In short, Nehemiah prioritized completing the wall project by keeping the work going and relying on his team to do the job. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail or perhaps explore a specific aspect of this verse? For example, are you curious about: The historical context of the time? Why it’s considered a significant moment in biblical history?

Definition: Moreover [there were] at my table an hundred and fifty of the Jews and rulers, beside those that came unto us from among the heathen that [are] about us.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:17. It’s a really important part of understanding how the Jewish community was organized during a time of crisis. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “At Nehemiah’s table, there were about 150 Jewish people and leaders alongside people from other nations (the ‘heathens’) who were visiting.” Let's unpack that a bit: “Moreover [there were]…” : This phrase is a little tricky – it means “and furthermore” or "in addition." It’s emphasizing something. “…an hundred and fifty of the Jews…” : This refers to the Jewish population within the city of Jerusalem. It was a significant group, and they were a core part of the community. “…and rulers, beside those that came unto us from among the heathen…” : This is where it gets interesting. “Heathens” in this context means people from outside the Jewish community – foreigners, travelers, merchants, etc. The verse specifically mentions leaders and rulers alongside the Jewish people. So, what’s the significance? This tells us that Nehemiah's table was a place of important meetings and discussions. It wasn’t just about regular prayers or celebrations. There were also leaders (like priests, elders, and officials) present, and people from other nations were visiting too. Why is this important? It shows that the Jewish community wasn't just a group of people worshipping God; it was a complex society with different roles and responsibilities. It highlights their need for leadership and interaction with the outside world. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in the context of biblical history? Give you a little more detail about the people involved (like what kind of leaders were there)? Compare it to something else from the Bible?

Definition: Now [that] which was prepared [for me] daily [was] one ox [and] six choice sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine: yet for all this required not I the bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy upon this people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 5:18. It’s a really interesting story about leadership and prioritizing the needs of God's people. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Situation: Nehemiah was in charge of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. This was a huge, ongoing project – rebuilding the city after it had been destroyed by enemies. He was living a comfortable life. He had a daily routine that included: One Ox: A regular animal for food and labor. Six Sheep: A significant amount of livestock for his family and perhaps to sell or trade. Fowls: Other animals like chickens, for food and possibly for sale. Wine Storage: He had a large supply of wine – enough to last for a long time. The Key Point - It was about prioritizing God’s people: “Prepared daily…” This means he was consistently focused on providing for his community, including their needs. It wasn't just occasional help; it was a regular commitment. “…one ox, six sheep, and fowls…” This shows he was taking care of the most basic needs – food, animals, and a source of drink. “…yet for all this required not I the bread of the governor…” This is the crucial part. He wasn't relying on the government to provide food for his people. He was making sure his community had enough self-sufficiency . The Reason - A Heavy Burden: "...because the bondage was heavy upon this people." This is the most important part. The Bible says that the oppression and hardship imposed on the people were a major problem. It meant they were struggling with difficult circumstances – being held captive, lacking freedom, etc. It was a significant burden for everyone. In short: Nehemiah was managing his own resources to help his community while acknowledging the serious problems facing them. He was prioritizing their well-being above all else. What does this mean for us? It’s a powerful reminder that: True leadership is about serving others. It's not just about power or wealth, but about putting the needs of those under your care first. Self-sufficiency is important. Having enough resources to meet basic needs strengthens communities and gives people hope. --- Do you want me to: Explain a particular aspect of this verse in more detail? (e.g., the symbolism of the sheep?) Discuss why this story is significant in biblical history? Give you a quick summary of the overall message of Nehemiah 5?