Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version Instead, I devoted myself to the work on this wall. All my men were assembled there for the work; we did not acquire any land. New Living Translation I also devoted myself to working on the wall and refused to acquire any land. And I required all my servants to spend time working on the wall. English Standard Version I also persevered in the work on this wall, and we acquired no land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work. Berean Standard Bible Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my servants were gathered there for the work; we did not acquire any land. King James Bible Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work. New King James Version Indeed, I also continued the work on this wall, and we did not buy any land. All my servants were gathered there for the work. New American Standard Bible I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work. NASB 1995 I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work. NASB 1977 And I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work. Legacy Standard Bible I also took hold of the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my young men were gathered there for the work. Amplified Bible I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered together there for the work. Christian Standard Bible Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of this wall, and all my subordinates were gathered there for the work. We didn’t buy any land. Holman Christian Standard Bible Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my subordinates were gathered there for the work. We didn’t buy any land. American Standard Version Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work. Contemporary English Version I spent all my time getting the wall rebuilt and did not buy any property. Everyone working for me did the same thing. English Revised Version Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work. GOD'S WORD® Translation Instead, I put my best effort into the work on this wall, and we bought no land. All my men gathered here for work. Good News Translation I put all my energy into rebuilding the wall and did not acquire any property. Everyone who worked for me joined in the rebuilding. International Standard Version Also, as I continued to work on the wall, we purchased no land, and all of my young men were employed in the work. NET Bible I gave myself to the work on this wall, without even purchasing a field. All my associates were gathered there for the work. New Heart English Bible Yes, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered there to the work. Webster's Bible Translation Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither to the work. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleInstead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my servants were gathered there for the work; we did not acquire any land. World English Bible Yes, I also continued in the work of this wall. We didn’t buy any land. All my servants were gathered there to the work. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd also, in the work of this wall I have done mightily, even a field we have not bought, and all my servants are gathered there for the work; Young's Literal Translation And also, in the work of this wall I have done mightily, even a field we have not bought, and all my servants are gathered there for the work; Smith's Literal Translation And also I held fast upon the work of this wall, and we bought not a field: and all my young men being gathered there for the work. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleMoreover I built in the work of the wall, and I bought no land, and all my servants were gathered together to the work. Catholic Public Domain Version In fact, I preferred to build in the work of the wall, and I bought no land, and all my servants were gathered to do the work. New American Bible In addition, though I had acquired no land of my own, I did my part in this work on the wall, and all my attendants were gathered there for the work. New Revised Standard Version Indeed, I devoted myself to the work on this wall, and acquired no land; and all my servants were gathered there for the work. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAlso I was greatly occupied with the work of this wall, and I bought no fields; and all the Jewish servants were gathered there, supervising the work. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated Also in the work of this wall I was greatly strengthened, and I have not bought fields, and all the boys, the sons of the Judeans, were gathered, and they stood there over the work. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Yea, also I set hand to the work of this wall, neither bought we any land; and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work. Brenton Septuagint Translation Also in the work of the wall I treated them not with rigor, I bought not land: and all that were gathered together came thither to the work. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Nehemiah's Generosity…15The governors before me had heavily burdened the people, taking from them bread and wine plus forty shekels of silver. Their servants also oppressed the people, but I did not do this because of my fear of God. 16Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my servants were gathered there for the work; we did not acquire any land. 17There were 150 Jews and officials at my table, besides the guests from the surrounding nations.… Cross References Acts 20:34-35 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have ministered to my own needs and those of my companions. / In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” 1 Corinthians 9:12 If others have this right to your support, shouldn’t we have it all the more? But we did not exercise this right. Instead, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ. 1 Thessalonians 2:9 Surely you recall, brothers, our labor and toil. We worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to anyone while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. 2 Thessalonians 3:8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. Instead, in labor and toil, we worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to any of you. Philippians 4:17 Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. 1 Timothy 5:18 For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and, “The worker is worthy of his wages.” 1 Corinthians 4:12 We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; 2 Corinthians 11:9 And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have refrained from being a burden to you in any way, and I will continue to do so. 2 Corinthians 12:14 See, I am ready to come to you a third time, and I will not be a burden, because I am not seeking your possessions, but you. For children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. 1 Peter 5:2-3 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; / not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. Acts 18:3 and he stayed and worked with them because they were tentmakers by trade, just as he was. 1 Corinthians 9:18 What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not use up my rights in preaching it. 2 Corinthians 6:3-10 We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no one can discredit our ministry. / Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities; / in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in labor, sleepless nights, and hunger; ... 1 Corinthians 10:24 No one should seek his own good, but the good of others. Romans 15:1-3 We who are strong ought to bear with the shortcomings of the weak and not to please ourselves. / Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. / For even Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: “The insults of those who insult You have fallen on Me.” Treasury of Scripture Yes, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither to the work. I continued Luke 8:15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. Romans 2:7 To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. neither bought Numbers 16:15 And Moses was very wroth, and said unto the LORD, Respect not thou their offering: I have not taken one ass from them, neither have I hurt one of them. Acts 20:33-35 I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel… 1 Thessalonians 2:5,6 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: … all my 2 Corinthians 12:16-18 But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile… Philippians 2:20,21 For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state… Jump to Previous Acquire Acquired Applied Assembled Bought Buy Continued Devoted Field Fields Gathered Hand Held Instead Kept Mightily Ourselves Servants Thither Wall WorkJump to Next Acquire Acquired Applied Assembled Bought Buy Continued Devoted Field Fields Gathered Hand Held Instead Kept Mightily Ourselves Servants Thither Wall WorkNehemiah 5 1. The Jews complain of their debt, mortgage, and bondage6. Nehemiah rebukes the usurers, and causes them to make a covenant of restitution 14. He forbears his own allowance, and keeps hospitality Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall Nehemiah's commitment to rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem highlights his leadership and dedication to God's work. This phrase underscores his personal involvement, contrasting with leaders who might delegate tasks without personal investment. Nehemiah's focus on the wall reflects the importance of restoring Jerusalem's physical and spiritual integrity. The wall symbolized protection and identity for the Jewish people, aligning with God's promises to restore Israel. Nehemiah's actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate restorer and protector of His people. and all my servants were gathered there for the work we did not acquire any land Persons / Places / Events 1. NehemiahThe central figure in this passage, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. He led the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and is known for his dedication and leadership. 2. Jerusalem The city where the events take place. The rebuilding of its walls was crucial for the protection and restoration of the Jewish community after the Babylonian exile. 3. The Wall The wall of Jerusalem, which Nehemiah and the people were rebuilding. It symbolizes protection, identity, and the restoration of the Jewish people. 4. Servants Those who worked alongside Nehemiah. They were involved in the physical labor of rebuilding the wall and were committed to the communal effort. 5. Land Acquisition The act of acquiring land, which Nehemiah and his servants refrained from, demonstrating their focus on communal welfare over personal gain. Teaching Points Selfless LeadershipNehemiah exemplifies selfless leadership by prioritizing the community's needs over personal gain. Leaders today can learn from his example by focusing on serving others rather than seeking personal advancement. Commitment to God's Work Nehemiah's dedication to rebuilding the wall despite challenges teaches us the importance of commitment to God's work. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their spiritual and communal responsibilities. Community Involvement The collective effort of Nehemiah and his servants highlights the power of community involvement. Christians are called to work together for the common good, supporting one another in their spiritual journeys. Integrity in Action By refusing to acquire land, Nehemiah demonstrates integrity and a focus on the mission. This teaches us the importance of maintaining integrity in our actions and decisions, especially when serving others. Focus on Eternal Values Nehemiah's actions remind us to focus on eternal values rather than temporary gains. Christians are encouraged to prioritize spiritual growth and community well-being over material possessions. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Nehemiah 5:16?2. How does Nehemiah 5:16 demonstrate servant leadership in action? 3. What does Nehemiah 5:16 teach about prioritizing God's work over personal gain? 4. How can we apply Nehemiah's example of selflessness in our daily lives? 5. In what ways does Nehemiah 5:16 connect to Philippians 2:3-4 on humility? 6. How can we encourage others to follow Nehemiah's example of dedication to God? 7. How does Nehemiah 5:16 reflect leadership principles in addressing social injustice? 8. What historical context influenced Nehemiah's decision in Nehemiah 5:16? 9. How does Nehemiah 5:16 challenge modern views on wealth and responsibility? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Nehemiah 5? 11. What are the main themes of the Bible's books? 12. How is Jesus represented in each book of the Bible? 13. What was Nehemiah's role in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls? 14. How does ambition align with serving God? What Does Nehemiah 5:16 Mean Instead• Nehemiah contrasts his conduct with that of the earlier governors who “placed a heavy burden on the people” (Nehemiah 5:15). • The word “instead” signals repentance and reform—he chooses the opposite path of selfish rule (cf. Ezekiel 34:2–4; Matthew 20:25-28). • By rejecting the former exploitative pattern, he models godly leadership that “looks not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). I devoted myself to the construction of the wall • Nehemiah doesn’t merely delegate; he personally pours himself into the work God assigned (Nehemiah 4:6). • His single-minded focus echoes Paul’s call to “abound in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • The wall was essential for the city’s protection and identity (cf. Psalm 48:12-13); Nehemiah’s dedication shows that kingdom priorities outrank personal comfort. and all my servants were gathered there for the work • Nehemiah’s household follows his example, much like Joshua’s resolve: “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). • He treats servants as partners, not expendable laborers—mirroring the principle in Ephesians 6:9 that masters must treat those under them with respect. • Shared labor fosters unity (Nehemiah 3) and counters any hint of class privilege; everyone has skin in the game. we did not acquire any land • Governors typically enlarged personal estates at the people’s expense, but Nehemiah refuses to exploit his position (cf. 1 Samuel 12:3-4). • He lives out the warning, “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money” (Hebrews 13:5). • By forfeiting real-estate gains, he safeguards his witness, echoing Paul: “I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing” (Acts 20:33-34). • This self-denial ensures resources remain available for the community and demonstrates that true leaders seek eternal treasure, not earthly (Matthew 6:19-21). summary Nehemiah 5:16 reveals a leader who rejects the corrupt norms of his day, throws himself and his household into God’s work, and refuses personal profit. His example calls believers to servant leadership, wholehearted labor for the kingdom, and integrity that keeps material gain in check—proving that when God’s glory is the aim, personal sacrifice becomes a joy. (16) I continued.--I repaired: that is, as superintendent. His servants and himself did not take advantage of the people's poverty to acquire their land by mortgage; they were, on the contrary, absorbed in the common work.Verse 16. - I continued in the work of this wall. Literally, "I repaired," like the others (Nehemiah 3:4-31). I employed myself not in buying up men's fields at low prices, and so enriching myself, but in the restoring and repairing of the wall, over which I exercised a constant superintendence. All my servants were gathered thither. See Nehemiah 4:16.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew Instead,וְ֠גַם (wə·ḡam) Conjunctive waw | Conjunction Strong's 1571: Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and I devoted myself הֶחֱזַ֔קְתִּי (he·ḥĕ·zaq·tî) Verb - Hifil - Perfect - first person common singular Strong's 2388: To fasten upon, to seize, be strong, obstinate, to bind, restrain, conquer to the construction בִּמְלֶ֜אכֶת (bim·le·ḵeṯ) Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct Strong's 4399: Deputyship, ministry, employment, work, property of the הַזֹּאת֙ (haz·zōṯ) Article | Pronoun - feminine singular Strong's 2063: Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that, wall, הַחוֹמָ֤ה (ha·ḥō·w·māh) Article | Noun - feminine singular Strong's 2346: A wall of protection and all וְכָל־ (wə·ḵāl) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every my servants נְעָרַ֔י (nə·‘ā·ray) Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular Strong's 5288: A boy, lad, youth, retainer were gathered קְבוּצִ֥ים (qə·ḇū·ṣîm) Verb - Qal - QalPassParticiple - masculine plural Strong's 6908: To gather, collect there שָׁ֖ם (šām) Adverb Strong's 8033: There, then, thither for עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against the work; הַמְּלָאכָֽה׃ (ham·mə·lā·ḵāh) Article | Noun - feminine singular Strong's 4399: Deputyship, ministry, employment, work, property we did not לֹ֣א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle Strong's 3808: Not, no acquire קָנִ֑ינוּ (qā·nî·nū) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common plural Strong's 7069: To erect, create, to procure, by purchase, to own any land. וְשָׂדֶ֖ה (wə·śā·ḏeh) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 7704: Field, land Links Nehemiah 5:16 NIVNehemiah 5:16 NLT Nehemiah 5:16 ESV Nehemiah 5:16 NASB Nehemiah 5:16 KJV Nehemiah 5:16 BibleApps.com Nehemiah 5:16 Biblia Paralela Nehemiah 5:16 Chinese Bible Nehemiah 5:16 French Bible Nehemiah 5:16 Catholic Bible OT History: Nehemiah 5:16 Yes also I continued in the work (Neh Ne) |
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