Background:
Nehemiah, a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, served as a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I of Persia during the 5th century BC. His account is primarily documented in the Book of Nehemiah, which is part of the historical books of the Old Testament. Nehemiah's narrative begins with his deep concern for the welfare of Jerusalem, the city of his ancestors, which had been left in ruins following the Babylonian conquest.

Biblical Account:
The account of Nehemiah learning about the state of Jerusalem is found in Nehemiah 1:1-4. The passage begins with Nehemiah receiving a report from Hanani, one of his brothers, and some men from Judah. They inform him about the dire condition of the Jewish remnant and the city of Jerusalem. The walls of the city are broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.

Scripture Reference:
Nehemiah 1:2-3 states: "Hanani, one of my brothers, arrived with men from Judah, and I questioned them about the remnant of the Jews who had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. And they told me, 'The remnant who survived the exile are there in the province, in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.'"

Nehemiah's Response:
Upon hearing this distressing news, Nehemiah is deeply moved. His reaction is one of profound sorrow and earnest prayer. Nehemiah 1:4 describes his response: "When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven." This reaction underscores Nehemiah's deep spiritual commitment and his heartfelt concern for his people and their city.

Theological Significance:
Nehemiah's response to the news of Jerusalem's ruin highlights several key themes in the biblical narrative. First, it demonstrates the importance of prayer and fasting as a means of seeking divine guidance and intervention. Nehemiah's immediate turn to God in prayer reflects his reliance on divine providence and his understanding of the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Second, Nehemiah's concern for Jerusalem underscores the significance of the city in Jewish identity and faith. Jerusalem was not only a political and cultural center but also the spiritual heart of the Jewish people, housing the Temple, the symbol of God's presence among His people.

Lastly, Nehemiah's leadership qualities begin to emerge in this initial response. His ability to empathize with the plight of his people and his willingness to take action set the stage for his later role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, a task that would require both spiritual and practical leadership.

Historical Context:
The historical context of Nehemiah's account is crucial for understanding the gravity of the situation. The Babylonian exile had left Jerusalem in ruins, and although some exiles had returned under the leadership of Zerubbabel and later Ezra, the city remained vulnerable and its defenses were in disrepair. Nehemiah's position in the Persian court provided him with a unique opportunity to influence the king and secure the resources necessary for the restoration of Jerusalem.

Conclusion:
The account of Nehemiah learning of Jerusalem's ruin sets the stage for the subsequent events in the Book of Nehemiah, where his leadership and faith play a pivotal role in the physical and spiritual restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem.