Nehemiah 13:23

Authorized King James Version

In those days also saw I Jews that had married wives of Ashdod, of Ammon, and of Moab:

Word-by-Word Analysis

גַּ֣ם׀

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

בַּיָּמִ֣ים

H3117

In those days

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

הָהֵ֗ם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

רָאִ֤יתִי

H7200

also saw

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַיְּהוּדִים֙

H3064

I Jews

a jehudite (i.e., judaite or jew), or descendant of jehudah (i.e., judah)

הֹשִׁ֗יבוּ

H3427

that had married

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

נָשִׁים֙

H802

wives

a woman

אַשְׁדֳּודִיּ֔וֹת

H796

of Ashdod

an ashdodite (often collectively) or inhabitant of asdod

#10

עַמֳּונִיּ֖וֹת

H5984

of Ammon

an ammonite or (the adjective) ammonitish

#11

מֽוֹאֲבִיּֽוֹת׃

H4125

and of Moab

a moabite or moabitess, i.e., a descendant from moab

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?