Nehemiah 8:11

Authorized King James Version

So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְהַלְוִיִּ֞ם

H3881

So the Levites

a levite or descendant of levi

מַחְשִׁ֤ים

H2814

stilled

to hush or keep quiet

לְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הָעָם֙

H5971

all the people

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

לֵאמֹ֣ר

H559

saying

to say (used with great latitude)

הַ֔סּוּ

H2013

Hold your peace

to hush

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הַיּ֖וֹם

H3117

for the day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

קָדֹ֑שׁ

H6918

is holy

sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) god (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary

#10

וְאַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

#11

תֵּֽעָצֵֽבוּ׃

H6087

neither be ye grieved

properly, to carve, i.e., fabricate or fashion

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of peace differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding peace in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?