Nehemiah 9:16

Authorized King James Version

But they and our fathers dealt proudly, and hardened their necks, and hearkened not to thy commandments,

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְהֵ֥ם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

וַֽאֲבֹתֵ֖ינוּ

But they and our fathers

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

הֵזִ֑ידוּ

H2102

dealt proudly

to seethe; figuratively, to be insolent

וַיַּקְשׁוּ֙

H7185

and hardened

properly, to be dense, i.e., tough or severe (in various applications)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

עָרְפָּ֔ם

H6203

their necks

the nape or back of the neck (as declining); hence, the back generally (whether literal or figurative)

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָֽׁמְע֖וּ

H8085

and hearkened

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#10

מִצְוֹתֶֽיךָ׃

H4687

not to thy commandments

a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?