Nehemiah 11:18

Authorized King James Version

All the Levites in the holy city were two hundred fourscore and four.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
הַלְוִיִּם֙
All the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi
#3
בְּעִ֣יר
city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#4
הַקֹּ֔דֶשׁ
in the holy
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
#5
מָאתַ֖יִם
were two hundred
a hundred; also as a multiplicative and a fraction
#6
שְׁמֹנִ֥ים
fourscore
eighty, also eightieth
#7
וְאַרְבָּעָֽה׃
and four
four

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Nehemiah.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection