Nehemiah 2:15

Authorized King James Version

Then went I up in the night by the brook, and viewed the wall, and turned back, and entered by the gate of the valley, and so returned.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וָֽאֱהִ֨י

H1961

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

עֹלֶ֤ה

H5927

Then went I up

to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative

בַנַּ֙חַל֙

H5158

by the brook

a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley (in which a brook runs); also a shaft (of a mine)

לַ֔יְלָה

H3915

in the night

properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity

וָֽאֱהִ֥י

H1961

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

שֹׂבֵ֖ר

H7663

and viewed

to scrutinize; by implication (of watching) to expect (with hope and patience)

בַּֽחוֹמָ֑ה

H2346

the wall

a wall of protection

וָֽאָשֽׁוּב׃

H7725

and so returned

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

וָֽאָב֛וֹא

H935

and entered

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

#10

בְּשַׁ֥עַר

H8179

by the gate

an opening, i.e., door or gate

#11

הַגַּ֖יְא

H1516

of the valley

a gorge (from its lofty sides; hence, narrow, but not a gully or winter-torrent)

#12

וָֽאָשֽׁוּב׃

H7725

and so returned

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
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?
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?