Nehemiah 9:17

Nehemiah 9:17 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

They refused to listen and failed to remember the wonders You performed among them. They stiffened their necks and appointed a leader to return them to their bondage in Egypt. But You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in loving devotion, and You did not forsake them.

King James Version KJV

And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not.

American Standard Version ASV

and refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them, but hardened their neck, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage. But thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness, and forsookest them not.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And would not do them, and gave no thought to the wonders you had done among them; but made their necks stiff, and turning away from you, made a captain over themselves to take them back to their prison in Egypt: but you are a God of forgiveness, full of grace and pity, slow to wrath and great in mercy, and you did not give them up.

Free Bible Version FBV

They refused to listen to you, and forgot about all the miracles you did for them. They became obstinate and decided to choose themselves a leader to take them back to slavery in Egypt. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and merciful, slow to get angry, and full of trustworthy love. You did not give up on them,

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

But refused to obey, and would not remember thy marueilous works that thou haddest done for them, but hardened their neckes, and had in their heads to returne to their bondage by their rebellion: but thou, O God of mercies, gratious and full of compassion, of long suffring and of great mercie, yet forsookest them not.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

yea, they refuse to hearken, and have not remembered Thy wonders that Thou hast done with them, and harden their neck and appoint a head, to turn back to their service, in their rebellion; and Thou [art] a God of pardons, gracious, and merciful, long-suffering, and abundant in kindness, and hast not forsaken them.

World English Bible WEB

and refused to obey. They weren’t mindful of your wonders that you did among them, but hardened their neck, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage. But you are a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in loving kindness, and didn’t forsake them.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst perform among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And they would not hear, and they remembered not thy wonders which thou hadst done for them. And they hardened their necks, and gave the head to return to their bondage, as it were by contention. But thou, a forgiving God, gracious, and merciful, longsuffering, and full of compassion, didst not forsake them.

Translation for Translators T4T

They refused to heed you, and they forgot about all the miracles that you had performed for them. Instead, they became stubborn [IDM], and they appointed someone to lead them back to Egypt, where they would be slaves again! But you are a God who forgives us and who is kind and merciful to us. You do not quickly become angry. You always faithfully love us.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 9:17

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 9:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יְמָאֲנ֣וּ לִ/שְׁמֹ֗עַ וְ/לֹא זָכְר֤וּ נִפְלְאֹתֶ֨י/ךָ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָשִׂ֣יתָ עִמָּ/הֶ֔ם וַ/יַּקְשׁוּ֙ אֶת עָרְפָּ֔/ם וַ/יִּתְּנוּ רֹ֛אשׁ לָ/שׁ֥וּב לְ/עַבְדֻתָ֖/ם בְּ/מִרְיָ֑/ם וְ/אַתָּה֩ אֱל֨וֹהַּ סְלִיח֜וֹת חַנּ֧וּן וְ/רַח֛וּם אֶֽרֶךְ אַפַּ֥יִם וְ/רַב ו/חסד חֶ֖סֶד וְ/לֹ֥א עֲזַבְתָּֽ/ם

וַ/יְמָאֲנ֣וּ mâʼên H3985 to refuse Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3mp

לִ/שְׁמֹ֗עַ shâmaʻ H8085 to hear Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

וְ/לֹא lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

זָכְר֤וּ zâkar H2142 to remember V-Qal-Perf-3cp

נִפְלְאֹתֶ֨י/ךָ֙ pâlâʼ H6381 to wonder V-Niphal | Suff

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

עָשִׂ֣יתָ ʻâsâh H6213 to make V-Qal-Perf-2ms

עִמָּ/הֶ֔ם ʻim H5973 with Prep | Suff

וַ/יַּקְשׁוּ֙ qâshâh H7185 to harden Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

עָרְפָּ֔/ם ʻôreph H6203 neck N-ms | Suff

וַ/יִּתְּנוּ nâthan H5414 to give Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

רֹ֛אשׁ rôʼsh H7218 head N-ms

לָ/שׁ֥וּב shûwb H7725 to return Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

לְ/עַבְדֻתָ֖/ם ʻabdûwth H5659 slavery Prep | N-fs | Suff

בְּ/מִרְיָ֑/ם mᵉrîy H4805 rebellion Prep | N-ms | Suff

וְ/אַתָּה֩ ʼattâh H859 you(m.s.) Conj | Pron

אֱל֨וֹהַּ ʼĕlôwahh H433 god N-ms

סְלִיח֜וֹת çᵉlîychâh H5547 forgiveness N-fp

חַנּ֧וּן channûwn H2587 gracious Adj

וְ/רַח֛וּם rachûwm H7349 compassionate Conj | Adj

אֶֽרֶךְ ʼârêk H750 slow Adj

אַפַּ֥יִם ʼaph H639 face N-md

וְ/רַב rab H7227 many Conj | Adj

ו/חסד chêçêd H2617 kindness Conj | N-ms

חֶ֖סֶד chêçêd H2617 kindness N-ms

וְ/לֹ֥א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

עֲזַבְתָּֽ/ם ʻâzab H5800 Forsaken V-Qal-Perf-2ms | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 9:17

וַ/יְמָאֲנ֣וּ mâʼên H3985 "to refuse" Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3mp

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to say no or reject something. It is used in Exodus 23:5 to describe refusing to help someone in need. God commands people to not refuse help.

Definition: (Piel) to refuse

Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: refuse, [idiom] utterly. See also: Genesis 37:35; Nehemiah 9:17; Psalms 77:3.

לִ/שְׁמֹ֗עַ shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound

Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.

וְ/לֹא lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | 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.

זָכְר֤וּ zâkar H2142 "to remember" V-Qal-Perf-3cp

To remember means to recall or mark something, like God remembering his covenant with Abraham in Genesis 9:1 and Exodus 2:24.

Definition: 1) to remember, recall, call to mind 1a) (Qal) to remember, recall 1b) (Niphal) to be brought to remembrance, be remembered, be thought of, be brought to mind 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to remember, remind 1c2) to cause to be remembered, keep in remembrance 1c3) to mention 1c4) to record 1c5) to make a memorial, make remembrance

Usage: Occurs in 223 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] burn (incense), [idiom] earnestly, be male, (make) mention (of), be mindful, recount, record(-er), remember, make to be remembered, bring (call, come, keep, put) to (in) remembrance, [idiom] still, think on, [idiom] well. See also: Genesis 8:1; Psalms 74:2; Psalms 8:5.

נִפְלְאֹתֶ֨י/ךָ֙ pâlâʼ H6381 "to wonder" V-Niphal | Suff

This Hebrew word means to wonder or be amazed, often at something great or difficult. It describes God's power and miracles in the Bible, like in the book of Psalms. The KJV translates it as 'marvelous' or 'wonderful'.

Definition: 1) to be marvellous, be wonderful, be surpassing, be extraordinary, separate by distinguishing action 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to be beyond one's power, be difficult to do 1a2) to be difficult to understand 1a3) to be wonderful, be extraordinary 1a3a) marvellous (participle) 1b) (Piel) to separate (an offering) 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to do extraordinary or hard or difficult thing 1c2) to make wonderful, do wondrously 1d) (Hithpael) to show oneself wonderful or marvellous

Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, (arise...too, be too) hard, hidden, things too high, (be, do, do a, shew) marvelous(-ly, -els, things, work), miracles, perform, separate, make singular, (be, great, make) wonderful(-ers, -ly, things, works), wondrous (things, works, -ly). See also: Genesis 18:14; Psalms 75:2; Psalms 9:2.

אֲשֶׁ֣ר 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.

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.

עָשִׂ֣יתָ ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" V-Qal-Perf-2ms

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

עִמָּ/הֶ֔ם ʻim H5973 "with" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.

Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as

Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.

וַ/יַּקְשׁוּ֙ qâshâh H7185 "to harden" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

In the Bible, this word means to be hard or severe, like when Pharaoh's heart was hardened against the Israelites in Exodus.

Definition: 1) to be hard, be severe, be fierce, be harsh 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be hard, be difficult 1a2) to be hard, be severe 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be ill-treated 1b2) to be hard pressed 1c) (Piel) to have severe labour (of women) 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to make difficult, make difficulty 1d2) to make severe, make burdensome 1d3) to make hard, make stiff, make stubborn 1d3a) of obstinacy (fig) 1d4) to show stubbornness

Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: be cruel, be fiercer, make grievous, be ((ask a), be in, have, seem, would) hard(-en, (labour), -ly, thing), be sore, (be, make) stiff(-en, (-necked)). See also: Genesis 35:16; 2 Chronicles 10:4; Psalms 95:8.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

עָרְפָּ֔/ם ʻôreph H6203 "neck" N-ms | Suff

The neck or back of the neck represents a turning point, like the back of a fleeing enemy or a stubborn person with a stiff neck.

Definition: 1) neck, back of the neck, back 1a) back of the neck 1a1) of fleeing foe 1a2) of apostasy (fig.) 1b) stiff of neck, obstinate (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: back ((stiff-) neck((-ed). See also: Genesis 49:8; 2 Chronicles 30:8; Psalms 18:41.

וַ/יִּתְּנוּ nâthan H5414 "to give" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.

Definition: : give/deliver/send/produce 1) to give, put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend 1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate 1a3) to make, constitute 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned 1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up 1c2) to be put upon

Usage: Occurs in 1816 OT verses. KJV: add, apply, appoint, ascribe, assign, [idiom] avenge, [idiom] be (healed), bestow, bring (forth, hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, [phrase] cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, [idiom] doubtless, [idiom] without fail, fasten, frame, [idiom] get, give (forth, over, up), grant, hang (up), [idiom] have, [idiom] indeed, lay (unto charge, up), (give) leave, lend, let (out), [phrase] lie, lift up, make, [phrase] O that, occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, [idiom] pull, put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send (out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), [phrase] sing, [phrase] slander, strike, (sub-) mit, suffer, [idiom] surely, [idiom] take, thrust, trade, turn, utter, [phrase] weep, [phrase] willingly, [phrase] withdraw, [phrase] would (to) God, yield. See also: Genesis 1:17; Genesis 40:21; Exodus 30:12.

רֹ֛אשׁ rôʼsh H7218 "head" N-ms

This Hebrew word means chief or prince, and is used to describe leaders in the Bible, such as in the book of 1 Samuel. It signifies a position of authority and importance.

Definition: : head 1) head, top, summit, upper part, chief, total, sum, height, front, beginning 1a) head (of man, animals) 1b) top, tip (of mountain) 1c) height (of stars) 1d) chief, head (of man, city, nation, place, family, priest) 1e) head, front, beginning 1f) chief, choicest, best 1g) head, division, company, band 1h) sum

Usage: Occurs in 547 OT verses. KJV: band, beginning, captain, chapiter, chief(-est place, man, things), company, end, [idiom] every (man), excellent, first, forefront, (be-)head, height, (on) high(-est part, (priest)), [idiom] lead, [idiom] poor, principal, ruler, sum, top. See also: Genesis 2:10; Numbers 17:18; 2 Samuel 4:7.

לָ/שׁ֥וּב shûwb H7725 "to return" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This Hebrew word means to return or turn back, and can be used literally or figuratively. It is often used to describe someone returning to God or repenting from sin, as seen in the book of Psalms and the prophets.

Definition: : return 1) to return, turn back 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to turn back, return 1a1a) to turn back 1a1b) to return, come or go back 1a1c) to return unto, go back, come back 1a1d) of dying 1a1e) of human relations (fig) 1a1f) of spiritual relations (fig) 1a1f1) to turn back (from God), apostatise 1a1f2) to turn away (of God) 1a1f3) to turn back (to God), repent 1a1f4) turn back (from evil) 1a1g) of inanimate things 1a1h) in repetition 1b) (Polel) 1b1) to bring back 1b2) to restore, refresh, repair (fig) 1b3) to lead away (enticingly) 1b4) to show turning, apostatise 1c) (Pual) restored (participle) 1d) (Hiphil) to cause to return, bring back 1d1) to bring back, allow to return, put back, draw back, give back, restore, relinquish, give in payment 1d2) to bring back, refresh, restore 1d3) to bring back, report to, answer 1d4) to bring back, make requital, pay (as recompense) 1d5) to turn back or backward, repel, defeat, repulse, hinder, reject, refuse 1d6) to turn away (face), turn toward 1d7) to turn against 1d8) to bring back to mind 1d9) to show a turning away 1d10) to reverse, revoke 1e) (Hophal) to be returned, be restored, be brought back 1f) (Pulal) brought back

Usage: Occurs in 953 OT verses. KJV: ((break, build, circumcise, dig, do anything, do evil, feed, lay down, lie down, lodge, make, rejoice, send, take, weep)) [idiom] again, (cause to) answer ([phrase] again), [idiom] in any case (wise), [idiom] at all, averse, bring (again, back, home again), call (to mind), carry again (back), cease, [idiom] certainly, come again (back), [idiom] consider, [phrase] continually, convert, deliver (again), [phrase] deny, draw back, fetch home again, [idiom] fro, get (oneself) (back) again, [idiom] give (again), go again (back, home), (go) out, hinder, let, (see) more, [idiom] needs, be past, [idiom] pay, pervert, pull in again, put (again, up again), recall, recompense, recover, refresh, relieve, render (again), requite, rescue, restore, retrieve, (cause to, make to) return, reverse, reward, [phrase] say nay, send back, set again, slide back, still, [idiom] surely, take back (off), (cause to, make to) turn (again, self again, away, back, back again, backward, from, off), withdraw. See also: Genesis 3:19; Numbers 8:25; Judges 8:13.

לְ/עַבְדֻתָ֖/ם ʻabdûwth H5659 "slavery" Prep | N-fs | Suff

This Hebrew word means slavery or servitude, describing a state of being bound to someone or something. It is used to describe the Israelites' bondage in Egypt. The concept appears in various books, including Exodus and Deuteronomy.

Definition: servitude, bondage

Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: bondage. See also: Ezra 9:8; Ezra 9:9; Nehemiah 9:17.

בְּ/מִרְיָ֑/ם mᵉrîy H4805 "rebellion" Prep | N-ms | Suff

Rebellion or bitterness, often used to describe someone who is against authority. It can also mean being rebellious or having a bitter attitude.

Definition: 1) rebellion 1a) rebellion 1b) rebellious (in construct)

Usage: Occurs in 21 OT verses. KJV: bitter, (most) rebel(-lion, -lious). See also: Numbers 17:25; Ezekiel 2:8; Proverbs 17:11.

וְ/אַתָּה֩ ʼattâh H859 "you(m.s.)" Conj | Pron

You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.

Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)

Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.

אֱל֨וֹהַּ ʼĕlôwahh H433 "god" N-ms

Eloah refers to God or a deity, and is used to describe the one true God or false gods. It is often translated as God in the KJV, and is related to the word Elohim, which also refers to God.

Definition: 1) God 2) false god Aramaic equivalent: e.lah (אֱלָהּ "god" H0426)

Usage: Occurs in 59 OT verses. KJV: God, god. See H430 (אֱלֹהִים). See also: Deuteronomy 32:15; Job 22:26; Psalms 18:32.

סְלִיח֜וֹת çᵉlîychâh H5547 "forgiveness" N-fp

This term refers to the act of forgiveness, such as when God pardons humanity's sins, as seen in Psalm 130:4. It represents a release from guilt or punishment.

Definition: forgiveness

Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: forgiveness, pardon. See also: Nehemiah 9:17; Psalms 130:4; Daniel 9:9.

חַנּ֧וּן channûwn H2587 "gracious" Adj

The Hebrew word for gracious describes God's kind and merciful nature, showing His love and care for humanity.

Definition: gracious

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: gracious. See also: Exodus 22:26; Psalms 103:8; Psalms 86:15.

וְ/רַח֛וּם rachûwm H7349 "compassionate" Conj | Adj

The Hebrew word for compassionate describes God's merciful nature. It is used to convey God's kindness and sympathy towards humanity, often in the context of his relationship with his people. This concept is central to the Bible's portrayal of God's character.

Definition: 1) compassionate 1a) always of God with one possible exception

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: full of compassion, merciful. See also: Exodus 34:6; Psalms 86:15; Psalms 78:38.

אֶֽרֶךְ ʼârêk H750 "slow" Adj

This word describes something or someone as long or patient, often referring to God's slow anger. It is used to describe long pinions or being patient. The KJV translates it as long-suffering or patient.

Definition: 1) long (pinions) 2) patient, slow to anger

Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: long(-suffering, -winged), patient, slow (to anger). See also: Exodus 34:6; Proverbs 15:18; Psalms 86:15.

אַפַּ֥יִם ʼaph H639 "face" N-md

This Hebrew word can mean face, but also anger or nose. It is used to describe someone's countenance or emotions, like anger or patience. In the Bible, it appears in various contexts, including descriptions of God's emotions.

Definition: : face 1) nostril, nose, face 2) anger

Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: anger(-gry), [phrase] before, countenance, face, [phrase] forebearing, forehead, [phrase] (long-) suffering, nose, nostril, snout, [idiom] worthy, wrath. See also: Genesis 2:7; Nehemiah 8:6; Psalms 2:5.

וְ/רַב rab H7227 "many" Conj | Adj

This Hebrew word means a chief or captain, someone in charge. It is used in 2 Samuel 23:19 to describe a great and powerful man. The idea is one of leadership and authority.

Definition: adj 1) much, many, great 1a) much 1b) many 1c) abounding in 1d) more numerous than 1e) abundant, enough 1f) great 1g) strong 1h) greater than adv 1i) much, exceedingly

Usage: Occurs in 443 OT verses. KJV: (in) abound(-undance, -ant, -antly), captain, elder, enough, exceedingly, full, great(-ly, man, one), increase, long (enough, (time)), (do, have) many(-ifold, things, a time), (ship-)master, mighty, more, (too, very) much, multiply(-tude), officer, often(-times), plenteous, populous, prince, process (of time), suffice(-lent). See also: Genesis 6:5; 1 Kings 11:1; Psalms 3:2.

ו/חסד chêçêd H2617 "kindness" Conj | N-ms

This word refers to kindness, mercy, or pity, often used to describe God's loving actions towards humanity. It is translated as 'favour', 'kindness', or 'mercy' in the KJV. It emphasizes God's loving character.

Definition: goodness, kindness, faithfulness

Usage: Occurs in 241 OT verses. KJV: favour, good deed(-liness, -ness), kindly, (loving-) kindness, merciful (kindness), mercy, pity, reproach, wicked thing. See also: Genesis 19:19; Psalms 51:3; Psalms 5:8.

חֶ֖סֶד chêçêd H2617 "kindness" N-ms

Definition: goodness, kindness, faithfulness

וְ/לֹ֥א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | 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.

עֲזַבְתָּֽ/ם ʻâzab H5800 "Forsaken" V-Qal-Perf-2ms | Suff

Forsaken means to loosen or relinquish something, often implying abandonment. In the Bible, the word appears in Psalm 22:1, where David cries out to God, saying my God, why have you forsaken me. The term signifies a sense of desperation and isolation.

Definition: This name means to restore, repair Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 206 OT verses. KJV: commit self, fail, forsake, fortify, help, leave (destitute, off), refuse, [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 2:24; Nehemiah 5:10; Psalms 9:11.

Study Notes — Nehemiah 9:17

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Nehemiah 9:17 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 9:17
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 9:17
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 9:17
Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 9:17
Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17
Sermons on Nehemiah 9:17

Context — The People Confess Their Sins

15In their hunger You gave them bread from heaven; in their thirst You brought them water from the rock. You told them to go in and possess the land that You had sworn to give them. 16But they and our fathers became arrogant and stiff-necked and did not obey Your commandments.

17They refused to listen and failed to remember the wonders You performed among them. They stiffened their necks and appointed a leader to return them to their bondage in Egypt. But You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in loving devotion, and You did not forsake them.

18Even when they cast for themselves an image of a calf and said, ‘This is your God who brought you up out of Egypt,’ and when they committed terrible blasphemies, 19You in Your great compassion did not forsake them in the wilderness. By day the pillar of cloud never turned away from guiding them on their path; and by the night the pillar of fire illuminated the way they should go.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Psalms 86:5	For You, O Lord, are kind and forgiving, rich in loving devotion to all who call on You.
2	Joel 2:13	So rend your hearts and not your garments, and return to the LORD your God. For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion. And He relents from sending disaster.
3	Psalms 145:8–9	The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion. The LORD is good to all; His compassion rests on all He has made.
4	Psalms 86:15	But You, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness.
5	Micah 7:18–19	Who is a God like You, who pardons iniquity and passes over the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance— who does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in loving devotion? He will again have compassion on us; He will vanquish our iniquities. You will cast out all our sins into the depths of the sea.
6	Psalms 78:38	And yet He was compassionate; He forgave their iniquity and did not destroy them. He often restrained His anger and did not unleash His full wrath.
7	Isaiah 55:7–9	Let the wicked man forsake his own way and the unrighteous man his own thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that He may have compassion, and to our God, for He will freely pardon. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.
8	Exodus 34:6–7	Then the LORD passed in front of Moses and called out: “The LORD, the LORD God, is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness, maintaining loving devotion to a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin. Yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished; He will visit the iniquity of the fathers on their children and grandchildren to the third and fourth generations.”
9	Romans 9:15	For He says to Moses: “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.”
10	Psalms 103:8–18	The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion. He will not always accuse us, nor harbor His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins or repaid us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His loving devotion for those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He is mindful that we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass— he blooms like a flower of the field; when the wind passes over, it vanishes, and its place remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the loving devotion of the LORD extends to those who fear Him, and His righteousness to their children’s children— to those who keep His covenant and remember to obey His precepts.

Nehemiah 9:17 Summary

[Nehemiah 9:17 shows us that even when people disobey and rebel against God, He remains patient, loving, and faithful. The Israelites had seen God's amazing wonders and miracles, but they still refused to listen and trust Him. Despite their stubbornness, God did not give up on them, and He continues to be a God of love and compassion towards us today, as seen in Psalms 86:15. We can learn from the Israelites' mistakes and choose to trust and obey God, knowing that He is always with us and guiding us.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to 'stiffen their necks' in Nehemiah 9:17?

To 'stiffen their necks' means to stubbornly refuse to obey or listen, similar to what is described in Acts 7:51, where Stephen accuses the Jewish leaders of being stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears.

Why did the Israelites want to return to Egypt despite its bondage?

The Israelites wanted to return to Egypt because they were afraid of the challenges and uncertainties of the Promised Land, as seen in Numbers 14:1-4, where they rebelled against God's command to enter the land.

What does it mean that God is 'slow to anger and rich in loving devotion'?

This phrase, also found in Psalms 103:8, describes God's patient and loving nature, where He is willing to wait and give people opportunities to repent before acting in judgment, as seen in Romans 2:4.

How does God's character in Nehemiah 9:17 relate to our lives today?

God's character of being forgiving, gracious, and compassionate, as seen in Nehemiah 9:17, is still the same today, and we can trust in His loving kindness and faithfulness, as promised in Lamentations 3:22-23 and Hebrews 13:8.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I have 'stiffened my neck' against God's will in my life, and how can I surrender to His plans?
How can I cultivate a deeper appreciation for God's wonders and miracles in my life, like the Israelites should have done?
In what ways can I demonstrate God's forgiving and compassionate nature to those around me, as a reflection of His character?
What are some areas where I need to trust in God's 'loving devotion' and wait on His timing, rather than trying to take control myself?

Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 9:17

And refused to obey,.... Though exhorted, admonished, and threatened, such was their obstinacy: neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; in delivering them at the Red sea, in

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 9:17

Thou art the LORD the God, who didst choose Abram, and broughtest him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gavest him the name of Abraham; No JFB commentary on these verses.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17

Refused to obey; persisted in their disobedience after many admonitions, and invitations to repentance. Appointed a captain, i.e. designed, purposed, and resolved to do so, , and therefore they are said to do so, as Abraham is said to have offered up Isaac, , because he intended and attempted to do it.

Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17

Nehemiah 9:17 And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thou [art] a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not.Ver. 17. And refused to obey] Heb. To hearken. They not only not hearkened, but refused to hear reasons why they should; as having made their conclusion, and being as good as ever they meant to be. This is to add rebellion to sin; this is that stubbornness that Ahaz is taxed of and branded for, 2 Chronicles 28:25. Neither were mindful of thy wonders] These soon grew stale to them, as the Psalmist proves by their wicked practices, Psalms 106:13. And truly who that looketh upon our lives would ever think that God had done any wonders for us of this nation, either by sea or land, either against fireworks or water works formerly; or against a viperous brood among ourselves, here of late? And in their rebellion appointed a captain] They once talked (in their mad mood) of doing such a thing, and therefore they are here said to have done it, Numbers 14:4; like as Joshua 24:9, it is said that Balak arose and fought with Israel; and yet the story saith no such matter. But if he did not, yet because he thought and talked of such a matter, it was a done thing before the Lord! But thou art a God ready to pardon] Heb. A God of pardons. One that hast set up a pardon office; where pardons for penitents lie ready sealed, that the sinner may not be to seek, that he may not perish in his sins while the plaster is in providing. It is our comfort that we have to do with a forgiving, sin-pardoning God, that doth it naturally, Exodus 34:6, plentifully, Isaiah 55:7, constantly, Psalms 130:4. This should be as a perpetual picture in our hearts. Gracious] Doing all for us gratis, et ex mero motu, out of his free and unexcited love. And merciful] All-heart; whereby he is inclined to succour them that are in misery, notwithstanding their sins. See his non obstante , Psalms 106:8. Longsuffering] Heb. Long of anger, that is, long ere he will be angry; not hasty of spirit, as Proverbs 14:17; Proverbs 14:29, but wondrous patient, amidst a world of provocations. And of great kindness] Of exceeding propensity to communicate good. The Hebrew word signifies a large quantity either continued (that is, magnitude or greatness), Psalms 48:2, or discrete (that is, multitude), Psalms 2:1-2. And forsookest them not] That is, not utterly, as David prayeth, Psalms 119:8, and after him Solomon, 1 Kings 8:57. When God forsaketh a people or person, woe be to them, Hosea 9:12.

Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17

(17) In their rebellion.—Rather, appointed a captain to return to their bondage in Egypt. This is the reading of some MSS., followed by the Septuagint, and is in harmony with Numbers 14:4, though there the appointment is only proposed. A God ready to pardon.—A God of pardons; only in Daniel 9:9 and Psalms 130:4.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17

Verse 17. And in their rebellion appointed a captain] This clause, read according to its order in the Hebrew text, is thus: And appointed a captain to return to their bondage in their rebellion. But it is probable that במרים bemiryam, in their rebellion, is a mistake for במצרים bemitsrayim, in Egypt. This is the reading of seven of Kennicott's and De Rossi's MSS., the Neapolitan edition of the Hagiographa, and the Septuagint. It is also the reading in Numbers 14:4. The clause should undoubtedly be read, They appointed a captain to return to their bondage in EGYPT.

Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 9:17

17. in their rebellion appointed a captain, &c.] Based on Numbers 14:4, and perhaps representing a tradition that the words ‘And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt’ were partially carried into effect. The R.V. marg. runs, ‘The Sept. has, And appointed a captain to return to their bondage in Egypt.’ See Numbers 14:4. The Sept. (ἐνΑἰγύπτῳ) read b’mizraim for b’miryam. Another proposed rendering instead of ‘appointed a captain’ is ‘turned their attention,’ or ‘directed their thoughts,’ literally ‘set their head.’ a God ready to pardon] R.V. marg. ‘Heb. a God of forgivenesses’. The word for ‘forgivenesses’ is found only in Daniel 9:9; Psalms 130:4. merciful] R.V. full of compassion.and of great kindness] R.V. plenteous in mercy.For these descriptive epithets of Divine mercy cf. Nehemiah 9:31; Exodus 33:19; Exodus 34:6-7; Psalms 86:15; Psalms 103:8; Psalms 111:4; Psalms 145:8; 2 Chronicles 30:9; Joe 2:13; Jonah 4:2; Nahum 1:3. forsookest them not] Cf. Nehemiah 9:31; Ezra 9:9.

Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 9:17

In their rebellion - The Septuagint and several maunscripts have “in Egypt” (the words in the original differing by one letter only), and translate - “And appointed a captain to return to their

Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:17

17. Appointed a captain — According to Numbers 14:4 the Israelites only proposed among themselves to appoint a captain, but it is quite probable that they also carried their rebellion so far as actually to nominate a new leader.

Sermons on Nehemiah 9:17

	Sermon	Description
	Establishing the Lordship of Christ by Major Ian Thomas	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He explains that the Holy Spirit's presence within us is a guarantee of our acceptance in God
	God Is Merciful; Ready to Pardon by Shane Idleman	Shane Idleman emphasizes God's mercy and readiness to pardon, drawing from Nehemiah's leadership in Jerusalem. He highlights the importance of faithfulness and reverence for God, a
	Nehemiah 9 by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith emphasizes the character of God as revealed in Nehemiah 9, highlighting His righteousness, mercy, and faithfulness to His people. The chapter recounts the Israelites' s
	Love Mercy - John 8:7 by Bernard Fell	Bernard Fell preaches about the importance of showing mercy and grace towards others, highlighting the story of Jesus protecting a woman from being stoned by reminding the accusers
	His Name Is Forgiveness by David Wilkerson	David Wilkerson emphasizes the unique nature of God as the one who forgives, highlighting that unlike other gods, our Lord is characterized by His mercy and readiness to pardon sin
	The Atonement of Our Lord Jesus Christ - Part 2 by Paris Reidhead	Paris Reidhead preaches about the atonement of our Lord Jesus Christ, emphasizing the importance of contemplating God's being and the true essence of worship. He delves into the da
	"Can God Forgive Me?" by Leonard Ravenhill	This sermon emphasizes the unfathomable mercy and forgiveness of God, highlighting a powerful encounter with a soldier haunted by his past sins and seeking redemption. It explores