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Nehemiah

Old Testament

Section: History   •   Trad. Author: Nehemiah (trad.)   •   Original Language: Hebrew

Bible Project Overview

The return from exile and rebuilding of Jerusalem

Chapter Summaries

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Chapter Summary Commentary
1
Nehemiah, cupbearer to the Persian king, hears of Jerusalem’s broken walls. He weeps, fasts, and prays for God’s mercy and favor.
2
Nehemiah receives Artaxerxes’ permission to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls. He inspects the ruins secretly and rallies the people to begin the work.
3
Families and groups rebuild sections of the wall, each contributing to the restoration effort with unity and diligence.
4
Opposition from enemies brings ridicule and threats. Nehemiah arms the workers, urging them to trust God and remain vigilant.
5
Nehemiah addresses internal injustice, rebuking nobles for exploiting the poor. He sets an example by serving without demanding governor’s privileges.
6
Enemies plot to distract and intimidate Nehemiah. He refuses their traps. The wall is completed in 52 days, and enemies lose confidence.
7
Nehemiah appoints leaders and records the genealogy of the first returnees under Zerubbabel to repopulate Jerusalem.
8
Ezra reads the Law publicly. The people weep, but Nehemiah and Ezra encourage them to rejoice. The Feast of Tabernacles is celebrated with joy.
9
The people confess sins and recount God’s faithfulness through history, renewing their covenant to obey His law.
10
Leaders and people make a written covenant, pledging to keep God’s commands, honor the Sabbath, and support the temple with tithes and offerings.
11
Leaders settle in Jerusalem, and others are chosen by lot to live there. Genealogies of priests, Levites, and gatekeepers are recorded.
12
Priests and Levites are listed. The wall’s dedication is celebrated with great rejoicing, music, and sacrifices. Worship is organized.
13
Nehemiah returns to find corruption: foreign influence, neglect of temple duties, Sabbath-breaking, and intermarriage. He rebukes and reforms the people, restoring covenant faithfulness.

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