Nehemiah 7:3
Nehemiah 7:3 in Multiple Translations
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.”
And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against his house.
And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand on guard, let them shut the doors, and bar ye them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against his house.
And I said to them, Do not let the doors of Jerusalem be open till the sun is high; and while the watchmen are in their places, let the doors be shut and locked: and let the people of Jerusalem be put on watch, every one in his watch, opposite his house.
I told them, “Don't allow the gates of Jerusalem to be opened until the sun is hot, and make sure the guards shut and bolt the doors while they're still on duty. Appoint some of the residents of Jerusalem as guards, to be at their posts, standing in front of their own houses.”
And I saide vnto them, Let not the gates of Ierusalem be opened, vntill the heate of the sunne: and while they stande by, let them shut the doores, and make them fast: and I appointed wardes of the inhabitants of Ierusalem, euery one in his warde, and euery one ouer against his house.
and I say to them, 'Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened till the heat of the sun, and while they are standing by let them shut the doors, and fasten, and appoint guards of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, each in his guard, and each over-against his house.'
I said to them, “Don’t let the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun is hot; and while they stand guard, let them shut the doors, and you bar them; and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, everyone in his watch, with everyone near his house.”
And I said to them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun shall be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar them : and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against his house.
And I said to them: Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened till the sun be hot. And while they were yet standing by, the gates were shut, and barred: and I set watchmen of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one by their courses, and every mall over against his house.
I said to them, “Do not open the gates of Jerusalem until late each morning. And close the gates and put the bars across the doors ◄late in each afternoon/before sunset► while the gatekeepers are still guarding the gates.” I also told them to appoint some people who lived in Jerusalem to be guards on the wall, and to assign some of them to be guards at certain other places and to assign others to guard the area close to their own houses.
Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 7:3
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 7:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
ו/יאמר
וָ/אֹמַ֣ר
לָ/הֶ֗ם
לֹ֣א
יִפָּֽתְח֞וּ
שַׁעֲרֵ֤י
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֨ם֙
עַד
חֹ֣ם
הַ/שֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ
וְ/עַ֨ד
הֵ֥ם
עֹמְדִ֛ים
יָגִ֥יפוּ
הַ/דְּלָת֖וֹת
וֶ/אֱחֹ֑זוּ
וְ/הַעֲמֵ֗יד
מִשְׁמְרוֹת֙
יֹשְׁבֵ֣י
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֔ם
אִ֚ישׁ
בְּ/מִשְׁמָר֔/וֹ
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
נֶ֥גֶד
בֵּיתֽ/וֹ
ו/יאמר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
וָ/אֹמַ֣ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs
לָ/הֶ֗ם
Prep | Suff
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יִפָּֽתְח֞וּ
pâthach
H6605
to open
V-Niphal-Imperf-3mp
שַׁעֲרֵ֤י
shaʻar
H8179
gate
N-mp
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֨ם֙
Yᵉrûwshâlaim
H3389
Jerusalem
N-proper
עַד
ʻad
H5704
till
Prep
חֹ֣ם
chôm
H2527
heat
V-Qal-Inf-a
הַ/שֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ
shemesh
H8121
sun
Art | N-cs
וְ/עַ֨ד
ʻad
H5704
till
Conj | Prep
הֵ֥ם
hêm
H1992
they(masc.)
Pron
עֹמְדִ֛ים
ʻâmad
H5975
to stand
V-Qal
יָגִ֥יפוּ
gûwph
H1479
to shut
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp
הַ/דְּלָת֖וֹת
deleth
H1817
door
Art | N-fp
וֶ/אֱחֹ֑זוּ
ʼâchaz
H270
to grasp
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2mp
וְ/הַעֲמֵ֗יד
ʻâmad
H5975
to stand
Conj | V-Hiphil-Ptc
מִשְׁמְרוֹת֙
mishmereth
H4931
charge
N-fp
יֹשְׁבֵ֣י
yâshab
H3427
to dwell
V-Qal
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֔ם
Yᵉrûwshâlaim
H3389
Jerusalem
N-proper
אִ֚ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
בְּ/מִשְׁמָר֔/וֹ
mishmâr
H4929
custody
Prep | N-ms | Suff
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Conj | N-ms
נֶ֥גֶד
neged
H5048
before
Prep
בֵּיתֽ/וֹ
bayith
H1004
place
N-ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 7:3
ו/יאמר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
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.
וָ/אֹמַ֣ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs
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.
לָ/הֶ֗ם
""
Prep | Suff
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.
יִפָּֽתְח֞וּ
pâthach
H6605
"to open"
V-Niphal-Imperf-3mp
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.
שַׁעֲרֵ֤י
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.
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֨ם֙
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.
עַד
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.
חֹ֣ם
chôm
H2527
"heat"
V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means heat or being hot, used to describe warm temperatures or climates. It appears in Genesis 8:13 and is related to the idea of warmth. The concept of heat is important in biblical descriptions of the environment.
Definition: heat, hot
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: heat, to be hot (warm). See also: Genesis 8:22; Nehemiah 7:3; Isaiah 18:4.
הַ/שֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ
shemesh
H8121
"sun"
Art | N-cs
The sun, or shemesh, represents not just the celestial body, but also east or west direction, and even objects that shine like battlements. It is often used to describe the rising or setting of the sun.
Definition: 1) sun 1a) sun 1b) sunrise, sun-rising, east, sun-setting, west (of direction) 1c) sun (as object of illicit worship) 1d) openly, publicly (in other phrases) 1e) pinnacles, battlements, shields (as glittering or shining)
Usage: Occurs in 127 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] east side(-ward), sun (rising), [phrase] west(-ward), window. See also H1053 (בֵּית שֶׁמֶשׁ). See also: Genesis 15:12; Psalms 104:19; Psalms 19:5.
וְ/עַ֨ד
ʻad
H5704
"till"
Conj | 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.
הֵ֥ם
hêm
H1992
"they(masc.)"
Pron
This Hebrew word is used to refer to a group of men, emphasizing that it is specifically them. It is often translated as 'they' or 'them' in the Bible, and appears in books like Exodus and Isaiah.
Definition: they, these, the same, who
Usage: Occurs in 524 OT verses. KJV: it, like, [idiom] (how, so) many (soever, more as) they (be), (the) same, [idiom] so, [idiom] such, their, them, these, they, those, which, who, whom, withal, ye. See also: Genesis 3:7; Deuteronomy 19:17; 2 Kings 1:18.
עֹמְדִ֛ים
ʻâmad
H5975
"to stand"
V-Qal
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.
יָגִ֥יפוּ
gûwph
H1479
"to shut"
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp
This word means to shut or close something, like a door or an opening. It is used in the Bible to describe physical actions, such as shutting a gate. It implies a separation or blockage.
Definition: 1) to shut, close 1a) (Hiphil) to close
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: shut. See also: Nehemiah 7:3.
הַ/דְּלָת֖וֹת
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.
וֶ/אֱחֹ֑זוּ
ʼâchaz
H270
"to grasp"
Conj | V-Qal-Impv-2mp
The Hebrew word means to grasp or take hold of something, often holding it in possession. It can also mean to be caught or settled. This verb is used in various forms throughout the Bible, including in the books of Exodus and Psalms.
Definition: 1) grasp, take hold, seize, take possession 1a) (Qal) to grasp, take hold of 1b) (Niphal) to be caught, grasped, be settled 1c) (Piel) to enclose, overlay 1d) (Hophal) fastened
Usage: Occurs in 63 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be affrighted, bar, (catch, lay, take) hold (back), come upon, fasten, handle, portion, (get, have or take) possess(-ion). See also: Genesis 22:13; Nehemiah 7:3; Psalms 48:7.
וְ/הַעֲמֵ֗יד
ʻâmad
H5975
"to stand"
Conj | V-Hiphil-Ptc
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.
מִשְׁמְרוֹת֙
mishmereth
H4931
"charge"
N-fp
Mishmereth refers to a guard or watch, such as a sentry or a post, emphasizing the act of preservation or safekeeping, like a duty or obligation to protect something or someone.
Definition: 1) guard, charge, function, obligation, service, watch 1a) guard, watch, house of detention or confinement 1b) keeping, preserving 1c) charge, injunction 1d) office, function (ceremonial)
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: charge, keep, or to be kept, office, ordinace, safeguard, ward, watch. See also: Genesis 26:5; Joshua 22:3; Isaiah 21:8.
יֹשְׁבֵ֣י
yâshab
H3427
"to dwell"
V-Qal
This verb means to sit or dwell, and can also mean to remain or abide. It's used in the Bible to describe people living in a place or staying with someone, like in the book of Genesis.
Definition: 1) to dwell, remain, sit, abide 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sit, sit down 1a2) to be set 1a3) to remain, stay 1a4) to dwell, have one's abode 1b) (Niphal) to be inhabited 1c) (Piel) to set, place 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to sit 1d2) to cause to abide, set 1d3) to cause to dwell 1d4) to cause (cities) to be inhabited 1d5) to marry (give an dwelling to) 1e) (Hophal) 1e1) to be inhabited 1e2) to make to dwell Aramaic equivalent: ye.tiv (יְתִב "to dwell" H3488)
Usage: Occurs in 977 OT verses. KJV: (make to) abide(-ing), continue, (cause to, make to) dwell(-ing), ease self, endure, establish, [idiom] fail, habitation, haunt, (make to) inhabit(-ant), make to keep (house), lurking, [idiom] marry(-ing), (bring again to) place, remain, return, seat, set(-tle), (down-) sit(-down, still, -ting down, -ting (place) -uate), take, tarry. See also: Genesis 4:16; Leviticus 25:18; Joshua 13:6.
יְרוּשָׁלִַ֔ם
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.
אִ֚ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
בְּ/מִשְׁמָר֔/וֹ
mishmâr
H4929
"custody"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
Mishmar refers to a place of confinement or a guard. It can be a prison, guard post, or a watch, and is about keeping something or someone safe.
Definition: 1) place of confinement, prison, guard, jail, guard post, watch, observance 1a) jail, prison, guard-house 1b) guard, guard post, act of guarding 1c) observances
Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: diligence, guard, office, prison, ward, watch. See also: Genesis 40:3; Nehemiah 4:16; Proverbs 4:23.
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Conj | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
נֶ֥גֶד
neged
H5048
"before"
Prep
Before or in front of something, as in Genesis 18:22 where Abraham stands before the Lord. It describes a position of being face to face or in someone's presence.
Definition: subst 1) what is conspicuous, what is in front of adv 2) in front of, straight forward, before, in sight of 3) in front of oneself, straightforward 4) before your face, in your view or purpose with prep 5) what is in front of, corresponding to 6) in front of, before 7) in the sight or presence of 8) parallel to 9) over, for 10) in front, opposite 11) at a distance prep 12) from the front of, away from 13) from before the eyes of, opposite to, at a distance from 14) from before, in front of 15) as far as the front of Aramaic equivalent: ne.ged (נֶ֫גֶד "before" H5049)
Usage: Occurs in 142 OT verses. KJV: about, (over) against, [idiom] aloof, [idiom] far (off), [idiom] from, over, presence, [idiom] other side, sight, [idiom] to view. See also: Genesis 2:18; Job 10:17; Psalms 10:5.
בֵּיתֽ/וֹ
bayith
H1004
"place"
N-ms | Suff
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
Study Notes — Nehemiah 7:3
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Nehemiah 7:3 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 7:3
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 7:3
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
- Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
- Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
- Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 7:3
- Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 7:3
- Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
- Sermons on Nehemiah 7:3
Context — Securing the City
1When the wall had been rebuilt and I had set the doors in place, the gatekeepers, singers, and Levites were appointed.
2Then I put my brother Hanani in charge of Jerusalem, along with Hananiah the commander of the fortress, because he was a faithful man who feared God more than most.
3And 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.”
4Now the city was large and spacious, but there were few people in it, and the houses had not yet been rebuilt. 5Then my God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles, the officials, and the people to be enrolled by genealogy. I found the genealogical register of those who had first returned, and I found the following written in it:Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nehemiah 3:28–30 | Above the Horse Gate, each of the priests made repairs in front of his own house. Next to them, Zadok son of Immer made repairs opposite his house, and next to him, Shemaiah son of Shecaniah, the guard of the East Gate, made repairs. Next to him, Hananiah son of Shelemiah, as well as Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph, repaired another section. Next to them, Meshullam son of Berechiah made repairs opposite his own quarters. |
| 2 | Psalms 127:1 | Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain. |
| 3 | Nehemiah 3:23 | Beyond them, Benjamin and Hasshub made repairs in front of their house, and next to them, Azariah son of Maaseiah, the son of Ananiah, made repairs beside his house. |
| 4 | Nehemiah 13:19 | 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. |
| 5 | Matthew 10:16 | Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. |
Nehemiah 7:3 Summary
[Nehemiah 7:3 teaches us about the importance of safety and security, as Nehemiah instructed the people not to open the gates of Jerusalem until the sun was hot. This shows us that we need to be wise and vigilant in our lives, just like it says in Matthew 24:43. We also learn that everyone has a role to play in keeping our communities safe, just like the residents of Jerusalem were appointed as guards. By working together and being responsible, we can create a secure and peaceful environment, as seen in Psalm 122:7.]
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Nehemiah instruct the people not to open the gates of Jerusalem until the sun was hot?
Nehemiah gave this instruction to ensure the city's safety and security, as seen in Nehemiah 7:3, similar to the principle of being wise and vigilant in Matthew 24:43 and 1 Peter 5:8.
What was the role of the residents of Jerusalem in guarding the city?
According to Nehemiah 7:3, the residents of Jerusalem were appointed as guards, some at their posts and some at their own homes, to help maintain the city's security, reflecting the communal responsibility seen in Deuteronomy 17:10-13 and Hebrews 10:24-25.
How does this verse relate to the concept of stewardship and responsibility?
This verse highlights the importance of stewardship and responsibility, as the people of Jerusalem were entrusted with the task of guarding their city, much like the principle of being faithful stewards in Luke 12:42-48 and 1 Corinthians 4:2.
What can we learn from Nehemiah's leadership style in this verse?
Nehemiah's instruction to appoint residents as guards demonstrates his leadership style of empowering and involving the community in the decision-making process, as seen in Exodus 18:13-27 and Acts 6:1-7.
Reflection Questions
- How can I apply the principle of being vigilant and watchful in my own life, just as Nehemiah instructed the people of Jerusalem?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to be more mindful of my responsibility to guard and protect, whether it's my family, my community, or my own spiritual well-being?
- How can I balance the need for security and protection with the need for openness and hospitality, as reflected in Nehemiah's instructions to open the gates at the right time?
- What does this verse teach me about the importance of community and shared responsibility in maintaining safety and security?
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 7:3
And I said unto them, let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot,.... Or until the heat of the day, or near noon; at least not till the sun had been up some time, and shone out
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 7:3
And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
Until the sun be hot, i.e. till it be clear and broad day; when enemies approaching may be discovered, and the people of the city will be ready for the defence in case of an assault. While they stand by, i.e. the watches appointed to that end, as is manifest from the following words. Every one to be over against his house, i.e. every one in his turn keeping watch with others in that watching-place which is next to his house.
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
Nehemiah 7:3 And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar [them]: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one [to be] over against his house.Ver. 3. Until the sun be hot] The sun hath one of his names, in Hebrew, a calefaciendo, from heating, çîä, Job 30:28, there is nothing hid from the heat thereof, Psalms 19:6. The name here given to the sun signifieth a minister, or servant; because it is the common servant of the world, whereby God ministeretb light, heat, and precious fruits to all people, Deuteronomy 4:19; Deuteronomy 33:14. It whirleth about the world with incredible swiftness; and is up in a morning before most people. Therefore till the sun be risen the gates must be kept shut, to keep out the enemy, who watcheth his opportunity. And while they stand by] To see it done as it ought to be; lest, by the treachery or carelessness of under-officers, it should either be undone or ill-done. Let them feel with their hands, so some render it, etiam tractate (Junius), whether the gates are made fast or not. And appoint watches] Heb. Set thou watches. He speaketh to the two Hananis, and bids each of them, whose turn it was, see to the well-doing of it.
Xenophon saith of Cyrus, that when he gave anything in command he never said, Let some one do this, but, Do thou this, Hoc tu facias (Cyropaed.).
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
VII.(1-4) Measures were taken for the security of the city, now made a complete fortress. The comparative thinness of the population taxed the governor’s resources, and the result appears at a later stage. (1) Were appointed.—Placed in charge, probably over all the walls. This was an extraordinary provision, to be explained by the fact that these organised bodies formed a large proportion of the inhabitants. The Levites had usually guarded only the Temple. (2) Hanani.—Who probably had returned from Susa with his brother. Hananiah the ruler of the palace.—Commander of the fortress, as in Nehemiah 2:8. He was in the immediate service of the Persian king, but his chief recommendation was his piety, which distinguished him from too many of the other rulers. (3) Until the sun be hot.—General directions were given that the gates should not be thrown open so early as sunrise; they were to be opened and barred again while the guard was present; and the inhabitants were to be divided for night-watches, part on the walls and part before their own houses. (4) Large and great.—Literally, broad on both sides, with large unoccupied spaces.
The houses were not builded.—In sufficient numbers to provide the requisite population for the city of God. The emphasis is on the fact that the people were few.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
Verse 3. Until the sun be hot] The meaning of this is, the gates were not to be opened before sunrise, and always shut at sunset. This is the custom to the present day in many of the cities of the East if a traveller arrives after sunset, he finds the gates shut; and on no consideration will they open them till the next morning, so that those who come late are obliged to lodge in the plain, or under the walls. Every one - over against his house.] Each was obliged to guard that part of the wall that was opposite to his own dwelling.
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 7:3
3. I said unto them] The reading of the C’thib, ‘He said,’ is clearly wrong. The K’ri is supported by the LXX. and Vulg. ‘Them,’ Hanani and Hananiah. until the sun be hot] Vulg. ‘Usque ad calorem solis,’ i.e. until the sun was high in the heavens; cf. 1 Samuel 11:9, ‘By the time the sun is hot.’ The customary practice was to open the gates at sunrise. By this regulation the enemy would be effectually prevented from obtaining any advantage by an entry into the city before the inhabitants were stirring. The LXX. (ἔωςἄματῷἡλίῳ) did not understand the sentence. Rashi also explains ‘until mid-day,’ erroneously. The shutting of the gates was a sign of suspicion: cf. the opposite description of security in Isaiah 60:11. stand by] R.V. stand on guard. The meaning apparently is that the gates were to be shut while the regular watch was still on guard. The A.V. ‘stand by’ refers to Hanani and Hananiah, as if the gates were always to be shut in the presence of the governors.
But it would have been an impossibility for the two officers to have been present at the fastening of each gate. The emphasis rests on the word ‘while.’ The guard of Levites are to be at their post, while the doors were being secured. shut … bar] LXX. κλείσθωσαν … σφηνούσθωσαν, Vulg. ‘clausζ … oppilatζ.’ The versions give the general sense. The word rendered ‘shut’ occurs only here in the O.T. in the mood employed in this verse. The word rendered ‘bar’ means literally ‘to seize.’ Hence Rashi explains, ‘let them take hold of the doors in order to shut them;’ and other interpretations have been ‘take hold in order to see whether they were fastened,’ and ‘take hold of the keys.’ But the marginal rendering of the R.V. 1 Kings 6:10, ‘he fastened the house,’ will illustrate its usage in the present verse. appoint watches &c.] It does not appear whether Hanani and Hananiah are the subject or the Levite guards. The verb in the original is in the Infin. Abs. (cf. Nehemiah 6:9) and expresses the command in general terms (LXX. στῆσον, Vulg. ‘posui’). The citizens themselves were to be organised for the defence of the place. Every man was to belong to a particular guardhouse, and take his turn in sentinel duty; and every man also was to be responsible for the protection of his own dwelling.
Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 7:3
Until the sun be hot - An unusual precaution. The ordinary practice in the East is to open town gates at sunrise.
Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 7:3
3. Until the sun be hot — That is, until broad day. An earlier opening of the gates might expose the city to a sudden surprise.
Sermons on Nehemiah 7:3
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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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 |
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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 |
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Our Daily Homily - Nehemiah by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of Nehemiah's role as a cupbearer, illustrating how God can use humble individuals for great purposes. Nehemiah's heartfelt prayers and tears |
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Every One Over Against His House. by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in addressing the evils of the world, urging individuals to focus on improving their immediate surroundings rather t |
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(Godly Home) Part 18 - Three Mysterious Influences in the Home by Denny Kenaston | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living in vital reality with God in a home. He uses the analogy of a willow tree planted by a watercourse to illustrate the |
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No Formula for Revival by Charles Price | This sermon addresses the tendency of the Church to rely on programs and formulas rather than seeking God's presence and guidance. It highlights the danger of trying to replicate p |
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Spiritual Warfare: Questions and Answers by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the spiritual principle of God's purpose and plan for the world. He refers to Matthew 25, where Jesus speaks about the last days and gives a p |