Nehemiah 11:24

Authorized King James Version

And Pethahiah the son of Meshezabeel, of the children of Zerah the son of Judah, was at the king's hand in all matters concerning the people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּפְתַֽחְיָ֨ה
H6611
And Pethahiah
pethachjah, the name of four israelites
#2
בֶּן
H1121
of the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#3
מְשֵֽׁיזַבְאֵ֜ל
H4898
of Meshezabeel
meshezabel, an israelite
#4
בֶּן
H1121
of the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
זֶ֤רַח
H2226
of Zerah
zerach, the name of three israelites, also of an idumaean and an ethiopian prince
#6
בֶּן
H1121
of the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#7
יְהוּדָה֙
H3063
of Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
#8
לְיַ֣ד
H3027
hand
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
#9
הַמֶּ֔לֶךְ
H4428
was at the king's
a king
#10
לְכָל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#11
דָּבָ֖ר
H1697
in all matters
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#12
לָעָֽם׃
H5971
concerning the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection