Nehemiah 12:29

Authorized King James Version

Also from the house of Gilgal, and out of the fields of Geba and Azmaveth: for the singers had builded them villages round about Jerusalem.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּמִבֵּית֙
Also from the house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#2
הַגִּלְגָּ֔ל
of Gilgal
gilgal, the name of three places in palestine
#3
וּמִשְּׂד֥וֹת
and out of the fields
a field (as flat)
#4
גֶּ֖בַע
of Geba
geba, a place in palestine
#5
וְעַזְמָ֑וֶת
and Azmaveth
azmaveth, the name of three israelites and of a place in palestine
#6
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
חֲצֵרִ֗ים
them villages
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
#8
בָּנ֤וּ
had builded
to build (literally and figuratively)
#9
לָהֶם֙
they (only used when emphatic)
#10
הַמְשֹׁ֣רֲרִ֔ים
for the singers
to sing
#11
סְבִיב֖וֹת
round about
(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around
#12
יְרֽוּשָׁלִָֽם׃
Jerusalem
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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