Nehemiah 3:12

And next unto him repaired Shallum the son of Halohesh, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem, he and his daughters.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְעַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

יָד֣וֹ

H3027

And next unto him

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

הֶֽחֱזִ֗יק

H2388

repaired

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

שַׁלּוּם֙

H7967

Shallum

shallum, the name of fourteen israelites

בֶּן

H1121

the son

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

הַלּוֹחֵ֔שׁ

H3873

of Halohesh

lochesh, an israelite

שַׂ֕ר

H8269

the ruler

a head person (of any rank or class)

חֲצִ֖י

H2677

of the half

the half or middle

פֶּ֣לֶךְ

H6418

part

a circuit (i.e., district); also a spindle (as whirled); hence, a crutch

#10

יְרֽוּשָׁלִָ֑ם

H3389

of Jerusalem

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

#11

ה֖וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

#12

וּבְנוֹתָֽיו׃

H1323

he and his daughters

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to Nehemiah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of kingdom of God within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of kingdom of God 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

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Nehemiah chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the kingdom of God theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?