Nehemiah 4:17

Authorized King James Version

They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַבּוֹנִ֧ים
They which builded
to build (literally and figuratively)
#2
בַּֽחוֹמָ֛ה
on the wall
a wall of protection
#3
וְהַנֹּֽשְׂאִ֥ים
and they that bare
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
#4
בַּסֶּ֖בֶל
burdens
a load (literally or figuratively)
#5
עֹֽמְשִׂ֑ים
with those that laded
to load, i.e., impose a burden (or figuratively, infliction)
#6
וְאַחַ֖ת
and with the other
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#7
יָדוֹ֙
of his hands
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
#8
עֹשֶׂ֣ה
wrought
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#9
בַמְּלָאכָ֔ה
in the work
properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)
#10
וְאַחַ֖ת
and with the other
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#11
מַֽחֲזֶ֥קֶת
hand held
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#12
הַשָּֽׁלַח׃
a weapon
a missile of attack, i.e., spear; also (figuratively) a shoot of growth; i.e., branch

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