Nehemiah 12:46

Verse

For long ago, in the days of David and Asaph, there were directors for the singers and for the songs of praise and thanksgiving to God.

American Standard Version (1901)

For in the days of David and Asaph of old there was a chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving unto God.

Bible in Basic English

For in the days of David and Asaph in the past, there was a master of the music, and songs of blessing and praise to God.

Douay-Rheims 1899

And all Israel, in the days of Zorobabel, and in the days of Nehemias gave portions to the singing men, and to the porters, day by day, and they sanctified the Levites, and the Levites sanctified the sons of Aaron.

Free Bible Version

For long ago, back in the time of David and Asaph, directors had been appointed for the singers and for the songs of praise and thanks to God.

Geneva Bible 1599

For in the dayes of Dauid and Asaph, of olde were chiefe singers, and songs of praise and thankesgiuing vnto God.

King James (Authorized) Version

For in the days of David and Asaph of old there were chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving unto God.

Translation for Translators

Ever since the time that David had been the king and Asaph had been his chief musician, the musicians had led the people while they sang songs to praise and thank God.

Unlocked Literal Bible

For long ago, in the days of David and Asaph, there were directors of singers, and there were songs of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Noah Webster Bible

For in the days of David, and Asaph of old there were chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving to God.

World English Bible

For in the days of David and Asaph of old there was a chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Young's Literal Translation

for in the days of David and Asaph of old [were] heads of the singers, and a song of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Context

Provisions for Temple Worship

⁴⁵They performed the service of their God and the service of purification, along with the singers and gatekeepers, as David and his son Solomon had prescribed.⁴⁶For long ago, in the days of David and Asaph, there were directors for the singers and for the songs of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Summary

Nehemiah 12:46 records how the Levites, singers, gatekeepers, and temple servants purified themselves and the people, as well as the gates and the wall of Jerusalem. This act of purification was essential for the sanctification and dedication of the city to the Lord. It symbolizes the importance of spiritual cleansing and consecration in preparing for worship and service to God. The commitment to purity and holiness demonstrated here serves as a reminder for believers to maintain a lifestyle of consecration and devotion to God in all aspects of their lives.

Commentary

Tyndale

Tyndale Open Study Notes

12:46 David had given instructions for ordering the music at the Temple (1 Chr 23–26), and he had put Asaph, along with Heman and Jeduthun, in charge of the music (1 Chr 25:2-5).