Nehemiah 13:29

Authorized King James Version

Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood, and the covenant of the priesthood, and of the Levites.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זָכְרָ֥ה
Remember
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
#2
לָהֶ֖ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#3
אֱלֹהָ֑י
them O my God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#4
עַ֚ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
גָּֽאֳלֵ֣י
because they have defiled
profanation
#6
הַכְּהֻנָּ֖ה
of the priesthood
priesthood
#7
וּבְרִ֥ית
and the covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#8
הַכְּהֻנָּ֖ה
of the priesthood
priesthood
#9
וְהַלְוִיִּֽם׃
and of the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Nehemiah. The concept of covenant reflects the development of covenant within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 covenant. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection