Nehemiah 6:9

Authorized King James Version

For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֣י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
כֻלָּ֗ם
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#3
מְיָֽרְאִ֤ים
H3372
For they all made us afraid
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#4
אוֹתָ֙נוּ֙
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
לֵאמֹ֔ר
H559
saying
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
יִרְפּ֧וּ
H7503
shall be weakened
to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative)
#7
יָדָֽי׃
H3027
Their 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
מִן
H4480
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#9
הַמְּלָאכָ֖ה
H4399
from the work
properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)
#10
וְלֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#11
תֵֽעָשֶׂ֑ה
H6213
that it be not done
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#12
וְעַתָּ֖ה
H6258
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#13
חַזֵּ֥ק
H2388
Now therefore O God strengthen
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#14
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#15
יָדָֽי׃
H3027
Their 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

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection