Nehemiah 9:31

Authorized King James Version

Nevertheless for thy great mercies' sake thou didst not utterly consume them, nor forsake them; for thou art a gracious and merciful God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּֽבְרַחֲמֶ֧יךָ
mercies
compassion (in the plural)
#2
הָֽרַבִּ֛ים
Nevertheless for thy great
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#3
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
עֲשִׂיתָ֥ם
sake thou didst
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
כָּלָ֖ה
not utterly consume
a completion; adverb, completely; also destruction
#6
וְלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
עֲזַבְתָּ֑ם
them nor forsake
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#8
כִּ֛י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
אֵֽל
God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#10
חַנּ֥וּן
them for thou art a gracious
gracious
#11
וְרַח֖וּם
and merciful
compassionate
#12
אָֽתָּה׃
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nehemiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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