Nehemiah 2:11

Authorized King James Version

So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וָֽאָב֖וֹא

H935

So I came

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

יְרֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם

H3389

to Jerusalem

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

וָֽאֱהִי

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

שָׁ֖ם

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

יָמִ֥ים

H3117

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

שְׁלֹשָֽׁה׃

H7969

and was there three

three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice

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 understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?