Nehemiah 4:10

Authorized King James Version

And Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and there is much rubbish; so that we are not able to build the wall.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֣אמֶר
said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
יְהוּדָ֗ה
And Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
#3
כָּשַׁל֙
is decayed
to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall
#4
כֹּ֣חַ
The strength
vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)
#5
הַסַּבָּ֔ל
of the bearers of burdens
a porter
#6
וְהֶֽעָפָ֖ר
rubbish
dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud
#7
הַרְבֵּ֑ה
and there is much
to increase (in whatever respect)
#8
וַֽאֲנַ֙חְנוּ֙
we
#9
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
נוּכַ֔ל
so that we are not able
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
#11
לִבְנ֖וֹת
to build
to build (literally and figuratively)
#12
בַּֽחוֹמָֽה׃
the wall
a wall of protection

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 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