Nehemiah 13:8

And it grieved me sore: therefore I cast forth all the household stuff of Tobiah out of the chamber.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֵּ֥רַֽע

H7489

properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)

לִ֖י

מְאֹ֑ד

H3966

me sore

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

וָֽאַשְׁלִ֜יכָה

H7993

therefore I cast forth

to throw out, down or away (literally or figuratively)

אֶֽת

H853

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

כָּל

H3605

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

כְּלֵ֧י

H3627

stuff

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

בֵית

H1004

all the household

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

טֽוֹבִיָּ֛ה

H2900

of Tobiah

tobijah, the name of three israelites and of one samaritan

#10

הַח֖וּץ

H2351

out of

properly, separate by a wall, i.e., outside, outdoors

#11

מִן

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

#12

הַלִּשְׁכָּֽה׃

H3957

the chamber

a room in a building (whether for storage, eating, or lodging)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

Questions for Reflection

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?