Nehemiah 11:2

And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַֽיְבָרֲכ֖וּ

H1288

blessed

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

הָעָ֑ם

H5971

And the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

לְכֹל֙

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֔ים

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

הַמִּֽתְנַדְּבִ֔ים

H5068

that willingly offered

to impel; hence, to volunteer (as a soldier), to present spontaneously

לָשֶׁ֖בֶת

H3427

themselves to dwell

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בִּירֽוּשָׁלִָֽם׃

H3389

at Jerusalem

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Nehemiah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Nehemiah chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?