Nehemiah 13:19

Nehemiah 13:19 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

When the evening shadows began to fall on the gates of Jerusalem, just before the Sabbath, I ordered that the gates be shut and not opened until after the Sabbath. I posted some of my servants at the gates so that no load could enter on the Sabbath day.

King James Version KJV

And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.

American Standard Version ASV

And it came to pass that, when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the doors should be shut, and commanded that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my servants set I over the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And so, when the streets of Jerusalem were getting dark before the Sabbath, I gave orders for the doors to be shut and not to be open again till after the Sabbath: and I put some of my servants by the door so that nothing might be taken in on the Sabbath day.

Free Bible Version FBV

So I ordered Jerusalem's gates to be shut at sunset on the day before the Sabbath, and that were not to be opened until after the Sabbath had ended. I assigned some of my men to guard the gates to make sure no goods would be brought in on the Sabbath day.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And when the gates of Ierusalem beganne to be darke before the Sabbath, I commaded to shut the gates, and charged, that they should not be opened til after the Sabbath, and some of my seruants set I at the gates, that there shoulde no burden be brought in on the Sabbath day.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And it cometh to pass, when the gates of Jerusalem have been dark before the sabbath, that I speak, and the doors are shut, and I say, that they do not open them till after the sabbath; and of my servants I have stationed at the gates; there doth not come in a burden on the sabbath-day.

World English Bible WEB

It came to pass that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the Sabbath, I commanded that the doors should be shut, and commanded that they should not be opened until after the Sabbath. I set some of my servants over the gates, so that no burden should be brought in on the Sabbath day.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And it came to pass, that, when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and I set some of my servants at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem were at rest on the sabbath day, I spoke: and they shut the gates, and I commanded that they should not open them till after the sabbath: and I set some of my servants at the gates, that none should bring in burthens on the sabbath day.

Translation for Translators T4T

So I ordered that at ◄the beginning of every Sabbath day/every Friday evening► they should shut the gates of the city before it became dark. I also ordered that they should not open the gates until ◄the Sabbath day was ended the next day/Saturday evening►. Then each Sabbath day I put some of my men at the gates, so they would make sure that nothing to sell was brought into the city on that day.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 13:19

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Nehemiah 13:19 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יְהִ֡י כַּ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר צָֽלֲלוּ֩ שַׁעֲרֵ֨י יְרוּשָׁלִַ֜ם לִ/פְנֵ֣י הַ/שַּׁבָּ֗ת וָ/אֹֽמְרָ/ה֙ וַ/יִּסָּגְר֣וּ הַ/דְּלָת֔וֹת וָ/אֹ֣מְרָ֔/ה אֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א יִפְתָּח֔וּ/ם עַ֖ד אַחַ֣ר הַ/שַּׁבָּ֑ת וּ/מִ/נְּעָרַ֗/י הֶֽעֱמַ֨דְתִּי֙ עַל הַ/שְּׁעָרִ֔ים לֹא יָב֥וֹא מַשָּׂ֖א בְּ/י֥וֹם הַ/שַּׁבָּֽת

וַ/יְהִ֡י hâyâh H1961 to be Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

כַּ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Prep | Rel

צָֽלֲלוּ֩ tsâlal H6751 to shade V-Qal-Perf-3cp

שַׁעֲרֵ֨י shaʻar H8179 gate N-mp

יְרוּשָׁלִַ֜ם Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 Jerusalem N-proper

לִ/פְנֵ֣י pânîym H6440 face Prep | N-cp

הַ/שַּׁבָּ֗ת shabbâth H7676 Sabbath Art | N-cs

וָ/אֹֽמְרָ/ה֙ ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs | Suff

וַ/יִּסָּגְר֣וּ çâgar H5462 to shut Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3mp

הַ/דְּלָת֔וֹת deleth H1817 door Art | N-fp

וָ/אֹ֣מְרָ֔/ה ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs | Suff

אֲשֶׁר֙ ʼăsher H834 which Rel

לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 not Part

יִפְתָּח֔וּ/ם pâthach H6605 to open V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff

עַ֖ד ʻad H5704 till Prep

אַחַ֣ר ʼachar H310 after Prep

הַ/שַּׁבָּ֑ת shabbâth H7676 Sabbath Art | N-cs

וּ/מִ/נְּעָרַ֗/י naʻar H5288 youth Conj | Prep | N-mp | Suff

הֶֽעֱמַ֨דְתִּי֙ ʻâmad H5975 to stand V-Hiphil-Perf-1cs

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

הַ/שְּׁעָרִ֔ים shaʻar H8179 gate Art | N-mp

לֹא lôʼ H3808 not Part

יָב֥וֹא bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

מַשָּׂ֖א massâʼ H4853 burden N-ms

בְּ/י֥וֹם yôwm H3117 day Prep | N-ms

הַ/שַּׁבָּֽת shabbâth H7676 Sabbath Art | N-cs

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 13:19

וַ/יְהִ֡י hâyâh H1961 "to be" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

כַּ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Prep | Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

צָֽלֲלוּ֩ tsâlal H6751 "to shade" V-Qal-Perf-3cp

In the Bible, this word means to shade or grow dark, often describing the onset of twilight or the shadow of an object. It is used to describe a range of situations.

Definition: 1) to be or become or grow dark 1a) (Qal) to become or grow dark 1b) (Hiphil) to shadow

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: begin to be dark, shadowing. See also: Nehemiah 13:19; Ezekiel 31:3.

שַׁעֲרֵ֨י shaʻar H8179 "gate" N-mp

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gate or door, often referring to city entrances or temple doors, like in Genesis and Exodus. It can also symbolize a meeting place or marketplace. The word is used to describe important locations in the Bible.

Definition: : gate 1) gate 1a) gate (of entrance) 1b) gate (of space inside gate, i.e. marketplace, public meeting place) 1b1) city, town 1c) gate (of palace, royal castle, temple, court of tabernacle) 1d) heaven

Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.

יְרוּשָׁלִַ֜ם Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 "Jerusalem" N-proper

Jerusalem is the capital city of Palestine, also known as the city of peace. It was the chief city of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split.

Definition: § Jerusalem = "teaching of peace" the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split

Usage: Occurs in 600 OT verses. KJV: Jerusalem. See also: Joshua 10:1; 2 Kings 22:14; 2 Chronicles 24:6.

לִ/פְנֵ֣י pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | N-cp

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.

הַ/שַּׁבָּ֗ת shabbâth H7676 "Sabbath" Art | N-cs

The Hebrew word for the Sabbath, a day of rest and worship, as commanded by God in Exodus 20:8-11 and observed by the Israelites. It is a special day set apart for spiritual renewal and reflection, as Jesus taught in Matthew 12:1-14.

Definition: Sabbath 1a) sabbath 1b) day of atonement 1c) sabbath year 1d) week 1e) produce (in sabbath year)

Usage: Occurs in 89 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] every) sabbath. See also: Exodus 16:23; 2 Chronicles 2:3; Psalms 92:1.

וָ/אֹֽמְרָ/ה֙ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs | Suff

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

וַ/יִּסָּגְר֣וּ çâgar H5462 "to shut" Conj | V-Niphal-ConsecImperf-3mp

To shut means to close something, like a door or a container. In the Bible, this word is used to describe surrendering or giving something up, like in the book of Ezra where the Israelites shut themselves in to pray.

Definition: 1) to shut, close 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to shut 1a2) to close, close up 1a3) closed up, closely joined, shut up 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be shut up 1b2) to be shut or closed 1c) (Piel) to shut up, deliver up 1d) (Pual) to be shut up 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to deliver up 1e2) to shut up, imprison 2) pure gold Aramaic equivalent: se.gar (סְגַר "to shut" H5463)

Usage: Occurs in 87 OT verses. KJV: close up, deliver (up), give over (up), inclose, [idiom] pure, repair, shut (in, self, out, up, up together), stop, [idiom] straitly. See also: Genesis 2:21; 1 Kings 11:27; Psalms 17:10.

הַ/דְּלָת֔וֹת deleth H1817 "door" Art | N-fp

A door is something that swings, like the valve of a door or gate. In the Bible, doors can represent entrance or access, as seen in Psalm 141:3 where David asks God to set a door on his lips.

Definition: door (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 78 OT verses. KJV: door (two-leaved), gate, leaf, lid. (Psalm 141:3). See also: Genesis 19:6; 2 Chronicles 28:24; Psalms 78:23.

וָ/אֹ֣מְרָ֔/ה ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs | Suff

אֲשֶׁר֙ ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

יִפְתָּח֔וּ/ם pâthach H6605 "to open" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp | Suff

This verb means to engrave or carve, and is used in Exodus to describe the intricate carvings on the furniture of the tabernacle.

Definition: 1) to open 1a) (Qal) to open 1b) (Niphal) to be opened, be let loose, be thrown open 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to free 1c2) to loosen 1c3) to open, open oneself 1d) (Hithpael) to loose oneself Aramaic equivalent: pe.tach (פְּתַח "to open" H6606)

Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: appear, break forth, draw (out), let go free, (en-) grave(-n), loose (self), (be, be set) open(-ing), put off, ungird, unstop, have vent. See also: Genesis 7:11; Psalms 39:10; Psalms 5:10.

עַ֖ד ʻad H5704 "till" Prep

This Hebrew word means until or as far as, describing a point in time or space. It's used in the Bible to set boundaries or limits, like in Exodus when describing the Israelites' journey.

Definition: prep 1) as far as, even to, until, up to, while, as far as 1a) of space 1a1) as far as, up to, even to 1b) in combination 1b1) from...as far as, both...and (with 'min' -from) 1c) of time 1c1) even to, until, unto, till, during, end 1d) of degree 1d1) even to, to the degree of, even like conj 2) until, while, to the point that, so that even Aramaic equivalent: ad (עַד "till" H5705)

Usage: Occurs in 1128 OT verses. KJV: against, and, as, at, before, by (that), even (to), for(-asmuch as), (hither-) to, [phrase] how long, into, as long (much) as, (so) that, till, toward, until, when, while, ([phrase] as) yet. See also: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 32:20; Numbers 23:24.

אַחַ֣ר ʼachar H310 "after" Prep

Achar means backwards or after, used to describe something that happens later or in the rear. It is used in various senses in the Bible, including in 1 Kings 12:18.

Definition: 1) after the following part, behind (of place), hinder, afterwards (of time) 1a) as an adverb 1a1) behind (of place) 1a2) afterwards (of time) 1b) as a preposition 1b1) behind, after (of place) 1b2) after (of time) 1b3) besides 1c) as a conjunction 1c) after that 1d) as a substantive 1d1) hinder part 1e) with other prepositions 1e1) from behind 1e2) from following after

Usage: Occurs in 664 OT verses. KJV: after (that, -ward), again, at, away from, back (from, -side), behind, beside, by, follow (after, -ing), forasmuch, from, hereafter, hinder end, [phrase] out (over) live, [phrase] persecute, posterity, pursuing, remnant, seeing, since, thence(-forth), when, with. See also: Genesis 5:4; Exodus 18:2; Joshua 8:14.

הַ/שַּׁבָּ֑ת shabbâth H7676 "Sabbath" Art | N-cs

Definition: Sabbath 1a) sabbath 1b) day of atonement 1c) sabbath year 1d) week 1e) produce (in sabbath year)

Usage: Occurs in 89 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] every) sabbath. See also: Exodus 16:23; 2 Chronicles 2:3; Psalms 92:1.

וּ/מִ/נְּעָרַ֗/י naʻar H5288 "youth" Conj | Prep | N-mp | Suff

In the original Hebrew, this word means a young person, either a boy or a girl, from infancy to adolescence. It is used to describe the servants and attendants who worked for kings and other important people in the Old Testament, like King David's servants.

Definition: 1) a boy, lad, servant, youth, retainer 1a) boy, lad, youth 1b) servant, retainer

Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: babe, boy, child, damsel (from the margin), lad, servant, young (man). See also: Genesis 14:24; 1 Samuel 25:5; Psalms 37:25.

הֶֽעֱמַ֨דְתִּי֙ ʻâmad H5975 "to stand" V-Hiphil-Perf-1cs

Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.

Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before

Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

הַ/שְּׁעָרִ֔ים shaʻar H8179 "gate" Art | N-mp

Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.

לֹא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

יָב֥וֹא bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

מַשָּׂ֖א massâʼ H4853 "burden" N-ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to a message from God, like a prophecy or oracle, often given through a prophet. It can also mean a burden or a song. It appears in books like Isaiah and Ezekiel, where God speaks through prophets to His people.

Definition: 1) load, bearing, tribute, burden, lifting 1a) load, burden 1b) lifting, uplifting, that to which the soul lifts itself up 1c) bearing, carrying 1d) tribute, that which is carried or brought or borne

Usage: Occurs in 59 OT verses. KJV: burden, carry away, prophecy, [idiom] they set, song, tribute. See also: Exodus 23:5; Isaiah 13:1; Psalms 38:5.

בְּ/י֥וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow

Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.

הַ/שַּׁבָּֽת shabbâth H7676 "Sabbath" Art | N-cs

Definition: Sabbath 1a) sabbath 1b) day of atonement 1c) sabbath year 1d) week 1e) produce (in sabbath year)

Usage: Occurs in 89 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] every) sabbath. See also: Exodus 16:23; 2 Chronicles 2:3; Psalms 92:1.

Study Notes — Nehemiah 13:19

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Nehemiah 13:19 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 13:19
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 13:19
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 13:19
Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 13:19
Sermons on Nehemiah 13:19

Context — The Sabbath Restored

17Then I rebuked the nobles of Judah and asked, “What is this evil you are doing—profaning the Sabbath day? 18Did not your forefathers do the same things, so that our God brought all this disaster on us and on this city? And now you are rekindling His wrath against Israel by profaning the Sabbath!”

19When the evening shadows began to fall on the gates of Jerusalem, just before the Sabbath, I ordered that the gates be shut and not opened until after the Sabbath. I posted some of my servants at the gates so that no load could enter on the Sabbath day.

20Once or twice, the merchants and those who sell all kinds of goods camped outside Jerusalem, 21but I warned them, “Why are you camping in front of the wall? If you do it again, I will lay hands on you.” From that time on, they did not return on the Sabbath.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Leviticus 23:32	It will be a Sabbath of complete rest for you, and you shall humble yourselves. From the evening of the ninth day of the month until the following evening you are to keep your Sabbath.”
2	Exodus 31:14–17	Keep the Sabbath, for it is holy to you. Anyone who profanes it must surely be put to death. Whoever does any work on that day must be cut off from among his people. For six days work may be done, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of complete rest, holy to the LORD. Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day must surely be put to death. The Israelites must keep the Sabbath, celebrating it as a permanent covenant for the generations to come. It is a sign between Me and the Israelites forever; for in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, but on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.’”
3	Jeremiah 17:19–22	This is what the LORD said to me: “Go and stand at the gate of the people, through which the kings of Judah go in and out; and stand at all the other gates of Jerusalem. Say to them, ‘Hear the word of the LORD, O kings of Judah, all people of Judah and Jerusalem who enter through these gates. This is what the LORD says: Take heed for yourselves; do not carry a load or bring it through the gates of Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. You must not carry a load out of your houses or do any work on the Sabbath day, but you must keep the Sabbath day holy, just as I commanded your forefathers.
4	Nehemiah 7:3	And I told them, “Do not open the gates of Jerusalem until the sun is hot. While the guards are on duty, keep the doors shut and securely fastened. And appoint the residents of Jerusalem as guards, some at their posts and some at their own homes.”
5	Leviticus 23:22	When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap all the way to the edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and the foreign resident. I am the LORD your God.’”

Nehemiah 13:19 Summary

Nehemiah 13:19 shows us that Nehemiah was serious about keeping the Sabbath day holy, just like God commands in Exodus 20:8-11. He ordered the gates of Jerusalem to be shut so that no one could buy or sell things on the Sabbath, and he posted his servants to make sure this rule was followed. This helps us see that keeping the Sabbath is not just a suggestion, but a way to show our love and respect for God, as Jesus teaches in Mark 2:27. By setting aside one day a week for rest and worship, we can follow Nehemiah's example and keep the Sabbath holy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Nehemiah's concern when he ordered the gates of Jerusalem to be shut?

Nehemiah was concerned about the Sabbath day being profaned, as mentioned in Nehemiah 13:17-18, and he wanted to prevent any commercial activity from taking place on that day, just as Exodus 20:8-11 and Deuteronomy 5:12-15 command.

Why did Nehemiah post his servants at the gates?

Nehemiah posted his servants at the gates to ensure that no load could enter Jerusalem on the Sabbath day, thereby preventing any commercial activity and helping the people to keep the Sabbath holy, as commanded in Jeremiah 17:21-22.

What does this verse reveal about Nehemiah's leadership style?

This verse shows that Nehemiah was a decisive and proactive leader who took bold action to enforce God's laws and protect the spiritual well-being of his people, as seen in his earlier actions in Nehemiah 13:1-3 and Nehemiah 13:15-16.

How does this verse relate to the broader biblical theme of Sabbath observance?

This verse is part of a larger biblical theme of Sabbath observance, as seen in Exodus 20:8-11, Deuteronomy 5:12-15, and Isaiah 58:13-14, which emphasizes the importance of setting aside one day a week for rest and worship.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways in which I can apply the principle of Sabbath observance in my own life, and what distractions or activities might I need to set aside in order to keep the Sabbath holy?
How can I, like Nehemiah, take a stand for what is right and protect the spiritual well-being of those around me, even if it means going against the status quo or facing opposition?
What are some areas of my life where I may be 'profaning the Sabbath' or compromising my values, and what steps can I take to rectify the situation and live more in line with God's commands?
In what ways can I, like Nehemiah, use my influence and position to promote God's laws and values, and to help others to live more godly lives?

Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 13:19

And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath,.... Or "were shaded" (g); that is, as Jarchi interprets it, when the shadows of the eve of the sabbath were

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 13:19

There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem. No JFB commentary on these verses.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19

When the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark; which was about sun-setting, by reason of the mountains which were round about and near Jerusalem, . Some of my servants set I at the gates, out of a diffidence in those to whom the keeping of the gates was committed.

Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19

Nehemiah 13:19 And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and [some] of my servants set I at the gates, [that] there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.Ver. 19. When the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark] As it did early, because the mountains were around Jerusalem, Psalms 125:2. Before the sabbath] That there might be a due preparation without interruption. At this day, in many cities where the Jews reside there is one goes about and proclaims the approaching of the Sabbath about half-an-hour before sunset the day before, that they may set all aside to sanctify it. I commanded that the gates should be shut] And thereby all such occasions of profaning shut out. And charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath] So King Edgar ordained that Sunday should be solemnized from Saturday, nine of the clock, till Monday morning here in this land, that God might surely have his due. The Jews of Tiberias began the Sabbath sooner than others. Those at Tsepphore continued it longer, adding de profane ad sacrum. of common to sacred time. Hence R. Jose wished that his portion might be with those of Tiberius, and ended it with those of Tsepphore (Buxtorf). And some of my servants set I at the gates] To keep them carefully, and to prevent profanations. How the Athenians amerced those that came not to the assemblies on holy days, hurdling up all the streets, except them that led to the ecclesia, taking away all their saleable wares, &c., see Rous’ s Archaeolog. Attic. p. 103.

Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19

(19) Some of my servants.—These are several times mentioned as employed in public duty. Here they are used provisionally, to keep out traffickers until the formal appointment of the Levitical guard (Nehemiah 13:22), after which they would be relieved.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 13:19

Verse 19. When the gates - began to be dark] After sunset on Friday evening he caused the gates to be shut, and kept them shut all the Sabbath; and, as he could not trust the ordinary officers, he set some of his own servants to watch the gates, that no person might enter for the purpose of traffic.

Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 13:19

19. the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark] The rare word for ‘began to be dark’ gives rise to the renderings LXX. ἡνίκακατέστησανπύλαι, Vulg. ‘cum quievissent portζ.’ Another suggested rendering is ‘had their bells rung,’ is very ludicrous, deriving the word from the same root as the word for ‘cymbals.’ before the sabbath] From this we should gather that the Sabbath began as soon as it was dark; not absolutely at sunset, but at the termination of the brief twilight. gates] R.V. doors.charged] R.V. commanded. Same word as in the previous clause. servants] Literally ‘youths,’ παῖδες, i.e. personal attendants, cf. Nehemiah 4:10. at the gates] R.V. over the gates, i.e. to superintend the watch. that there should no burden, &c.] The object of the watch was not to bar the free passage in and out, but only to prevent the introduction of merchandise on that day.

Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 13:19

The gates were closed at the sunset of the day before the Sabbath; since the Sabbath was regarded as commencing on the previous evening.

Sermons on Nehemiah 13:19

	Sermon	Description
	Christian Cautions (Or the Necessity of Self-Examination) by Jonathan Edwards	Jonathan Edwards preaches about the importance of self-examination and living a life free from sin, focusing on various aspects such as the observance of the Sabbath, secret sins,
	Burdens, and What to Do With Them by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of inner rest and the true meaning of Sabbath-keeping, which transcends the literal observance of a day. He explains that burdens, whether from
	3 Days in the Tomb by Don Courville	In this sermon, the speaker personifies Father Time and Death, engaging in a conversation about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Father Time questions why Death is watching over o
	(Exodus) Exodus 31:12-17 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of observing the Sabbath day. He emphasizes that the Sabbath was given to the children of Israel as a sign between them and G
	Who Is Guarding the Front Door of Your Home? by David Wilkerson	This sermon emphasizes the importance of guarding our homes and families against the influences of the world, especially in raising children in a godly way. It addresses the challe
	Who Is Guarding the Front Door of Your Home by David Wilkerson	This sermon emphasizes the importance of guarding our homes and families against the influences of the world, addressing issues like the spiritual battle for our children, the need