Nehemiah 4:19

Authorized King James Version

And I said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, The work is great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one far from another.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וָֽאֹמַ֞ר

H559

And I said

to say (used with great latitude)

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

הַֽחֹרִ֤ים

H2715

unto the nobles

properly, white or pure (from the cleansing or shining power of fire; hence (figuratively) noble (in rank)

וְאֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

הַסְּגָנִים֙

H5461

and to the rulers

a prfect of a province

וְאֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

יֶ֣תֶר

H3499

and to the rest

properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)

הָעָ֔ם

H5971

of the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

הַמְּלָאכָ֥ה

H4399

The work

properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

#10

הַרְבֵּ֖ה

H7235

is great

to increase (in whatever respect)

#11

וּרְחָבָ֑ה

H7342

and large

roomy, in any (or every) direction, literally or figuratively

#12

וַֽאֲנַ֗חְנוּ

H587

#13

נִפְרָדִים֙

H6504

and we are separated

to break through, i.e., spread or separate (oneself)

#14

עַל

H5921

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

#15

הַ֣חוֹמָ֔ה

H2346

upon the wall

a wall of protection

#16

רְחוֹקִ֖ים

H7350

far from

remote, literally or figuratively, of place or time; specifically, precious; often used adverbially (with preposition)

#17

אִ֥ישׁ

H376

one

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

#18

מֵֽאָחִֽיו׃

H251

another

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights kingdom of God through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?
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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?