Nehemiah 9:5

Nehemiah 9:5 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Then the Levites—Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah—said, “Stand up and bless the LORD your God from everlasting to everlasting: Blessed be Your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise.

King James Version KJV

Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, Stand up and bless the LORD your God for ever and ever: and blessed be thy glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise.

American Standard Version ASV

Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, Stand up and bless Jehovah your God from everlasting to everlasting; and blessed be thy glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise.

Bible in Basic English BBE

Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah said, Get up and give praise to the Lord your God for ever and ever. Praise be to your great name which is lifted up high over all blessing and praise.

Free Bible Version FBV

Then the Levites announced: “Stand up and praise the Lord your God who lives eternally: ‘May who you are and your glory be blessed, and may you be lifted up above all blessing and praise.’” (The names of the Levites were Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah.)

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And the Leuites said, euen Ieshua and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodiiah, Shebaniah and Pethahiah, Stande vp, and praise the Lord your God for euer, and euer, and let them praise thy glorious Name, O God, which excelleth aboue all thankesgiuing and praise.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And the Levites say, [even] Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah, Pethahiah, 'Rise, bless Jehovah your God, from the age unto the age, and they bless the name of Thine honour that [is] exalted above all blessing and praise.

World English Bible WEB

Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, “Stand up and bless the LORD your God from everlasting to everlasting! Blessed be your glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise!

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And the Levites Josue and Cedmihel, Bonni, Hasebnia, Serebia, Oduia, Sebnia, and Phathahia, said: Arise, bless the Lord your God from eternity to eternity: and blessed be the high name of thy glory with all blessing and praise.

Translation for Translators T4T

Then the leaders of the Levites called out to the people. They were Jeshua, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah. They said, “While you are standing there, praise Yahweh your God, who has always lived and will live forever!” Then one of them continued by praying this to God, “Yahweh, we praise your glorious name! You are much greater than anything that we can think about or talk about!

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Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 9:5

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 9:5 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּאמְר֣וּ הַ/לְוִיִּ֡ם יֵשׁ֣וּעַ וְ֠/קַדְמִיאֵל בָּנִ֨י חֲשַׁבְנְיָ֜ה שֵׁרֵֽבְיָ֤ה הֽוֹדִיָּה֙ שְׁבַנְיָ֣ה פְתַֽחְיָ֔ה ק֗וּמוּ בָּרֲכוּ֙ אֶת יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹֽהֵי/כֶ֔ם מִן הָ/עוֹלָ֖ם עַד הָ/עוֹלָ֑ם וִ/יבָֽרְכוּ֙ שֵׁ֣ם כְּבוֹדֶ֔/ךָ וּ/מְרוֹמַ֥ם עַל כָּל בְּרָכָ֖ה וּ/תְהִלָּֽה

וַ/יֹּאמְר֣וּ ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

הַ/לְוִיִּ֡ם Lêvîyîy H3881 Levi Art | Ngmpa

יֵשׁ֣וּעַ Yêshûwaʻ H3442 Jeshua N-proper

וְ֠/קַדְמִיאֵל Qadmîyʼêl H6934 Kadmiel Conj | N-proper

בָּנִ֨י Bânîy H1137 Bani N-proper

חֲשַׁבְנְיָ֜ה Chăshabnᵉyâh H2813 Hashabneiah N-proper

שֵׁרֵֽבְיָ֤ה Shêrêbᵉyâh H8274 Sherebiah N-proper

הֽוֹדִיָּה֙ Hôwdîyâh H1941 Hodiah N-proper

שְׁבַנְיָ֣ה Shᵉbanyâh H7645 Shebaniah N-proper

פְתַֽחְיָ֔ה Pᵉthachyâh H6611 Pethahiah N-proper

ק֗וּמוּ qûwm H6965 -kamai V-Qal-Impv-2mp

בָּרֲכוּ֙ bârak H1288 to bless V-Piel-Impv-2mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

יְהוָ֣ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

אֱלֹֽהֵי/כֶ֔ם ʼĕlôhîym H430 God N-mp | Suff

מִן min H4480 from Prep

הָ/עוֹלָ֖ם ʻôwlâm H5769 forever Art | N-ms

עַד ʻad H5704 till Prep

הָ/עוֹלָ֑ם ʻôwlâm H5769 forever Art | N-ms

וִ/יבָֽרְכוּ֙ bârak H1288 to bless Conj | V-Piel-Juss-3mp

שֵׁ֣ם shêm H8034 name N-ms

כְּבוֹדֶ֔/ךָ kâbôwd H3519 glory N-cs | Suff

וּ/מְרוֹמַ֥ם rûwm H7311 to exalt Conj | V-O-Inf-c

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

כָּל kôl H3605 all N-ms

בְּרָכָ֖ה Bᵉrâkâh H1293 blessing N-fs

וּ/תְהִלָּֽה tᵉhillâh H8416 praise Conj | N-fs

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 9:5

וַ/יֹּאמְר֣וּ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

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.

הַ/לְוִיִּ֡ם Lêvîyîy H3881 "Levi" Art | Ngmpa

A Levite is a descendant of Levi, one of Jacob's 12 sons, mentioned in Genesis 29:34. Levi's brothers include Reuben, Simeon, and Judah. His descendants played a key role in Israel's spiritual life.

Definition: Someone from the tribe of Levi living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.34; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Gershon (H1648), Kohath (H6955), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115) Another name of le.vi (לֵוִי "Levi" H3878) § Levite, of Levi "joined to" 1) the descendants of Levi, the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah 1a) the tribe descended from Levi specially set aside by God for His service

Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: Leviite. See also: Exodus 4:14; 1 Chronicles 6:33; Ezra 6:20.

יֵשׁ֣וּעַ Yêshûwaʻ H3442 "Jeshua" N-proper

Jeshua was a common name in the Bible, given to several men, including a leader who helped the Israelites return from exile. He is mentioned in the book of Ezra, where he is called a son of Jehozadak and a father of Joiakim.

Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Ezr.2.2; son of: Jehozadak (H3087); father of: Joiakim (H3113); also called Jeshua at Ezr.2.2; 3.2,8; 4.3; 5.2; 1x12.1,7,10,26; Another name of ye.ho.shu.a (יְהוֹשׁוּעַ "Joshua" H3091J) § Jeshua = "he is saved" 1) son of Nun of the tribe of Ephraim and successor to Moses as the leader of the children of Israel; led the conquest of Canaan 2) son of Jehozadak and high priest after the restoration 3) a priest in the time of David who had charge of the 9th course 4) a Levite in the reign of Hezekiah 5) head of a Levitical house which returned from captivity in Babylon 6) father of a builder of the wall of Jerusalem in the time of Nehemiah 7) a town in southern Judah reinhabited by the people of Judah after the return from captivity

Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: Jeshua. See also: 1 Chronicles 24:11; Nehemiah 7:11; Nehemiah 12:26.

וְ֠/קַדְמִיאֵל Qadmîyʼêl H6934 "Kadmiel" Conj | N-proper

Kadmiel was a Levite who helped rebuild the temple after the Exile and led the people in confession. His name means God is the ancient one, and he was a descendant of Hodaviah.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Ezr.2.40; father of: Jeshua (H3442N) § Kadmiel = "God is the ancient one" a Levite, descendant of Hodaviah, and head of a family of returning exiles; also oversaw the work on the temple and also was one of the leaders of the people who led the people in the public confession

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Kadmiel. See also: Ezra 2:40; Nehemiah 9:5; Nehemiah 12:24.

בָּנִ֨י Bânîy H1137 "Bani" N-proper

Bani, meaning built, was the name of several Israelites, including a Gadite warrior, a Levite, and a man from Judah. One Bani returned from captivity with Zerubbabel, as noted in Ezra 2:10.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Ezr.2.10; also called Binnui at Neh.7.15; Also named: bin.nuy (בִּנּוּי "Binnui" H1131) § Bani = "built" 1) a Gadite, one of David's mighty warriors 2) a Levite of the line of Merari, and forefather to Ethan 3) a man of Judah of the line of Pharez 4) "children of Bani" returned from captivity with Zerubbabel 5) one or up to three Levites in Nehemiah's time

Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: Bani. See also: 2 Samuel 23:36; Nehemiah 3:17; Nehemiah 11:22.

חֲשַׁבְנְיָ֜ה Chăshabnᵉyâh H2813 "Hashabneiah" N-proper

Hashabneiah was the name of two Israelites, including a Levite who helped repair the wall and officiated at a great fast under Ezra and Nehemiah in Nehemiah 9.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.9.5 § Hashabniah = "whom Jehovah regards" 1) the father of Hattush, repairer of the wall 2) a Levite who was among those who officiated at the great fast under Ezra and Nehemiah when the covenant was sealed

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: Hashabniah. See also: Nehemiah 3:10; Nehemiah 9:5.

שֵׁרֵֽבְיָ֤ה Shêrêbᵉyâh H8274 "Sherebiah" N-proper

Sherebiah was a Levite who helped Ezra read the Law and sealed a covenant with Nehemiah after the Exile. His name means Jehovah has scorched, reflecting his connection to a powerful God. He's mentioned in Nehemiah 10:12.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Neh.10.12 § Sherebiah = "Jehovah has scorched" a Levite who assisted Ezra at the reading of the Law and who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Sherebiah. See also: Ezra 8:18; Nehemiah 9:5; Nehemiah 12:24.

הֽוֹדִיָּה֙ Hôwdîyâh H1941 "Hodiah" N-proper

Hodiah means my majesty is Jehovah, and was the name of three Israelites, including two Levites in Ezra and Nehemiah's time. They lived during the Exile and Return period. Hodiah is mentioned in Nehemiah 10:18.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.10.18 § Hodijah = "my majesty is Jehovah" 1) a Levite in the time of Ezra and Nehemiah 2) another Levite at the same time 3) a chief of the people at the same time

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: Hodijah. See also: Nehemiah 8:7; Nehemiah 9:5.

שְׁבַנְיָ֣ה Shᵉbanyâh H7645 "Shebaniah" N-proper

Shebaniah was a Levite and priest who lived during the Exile and Return, and sealed a covenant with Nehemiah in Nehemiah 10:12.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.10.12 § Shebaniah = "increased by Jehovah" 1) a Levite who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah 2) a priest who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah 3) a 2nd Levite who sealed the covenant with Nehemiah 4) a priest appointed by David to blow with the trumpets before the ark of God

Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: Shebaniah. See also: 1 Chronicles 15:24; Nehemiah 10:5; Nehemiah 12:14.

פְתַֽחְיָ֔ה Pᵉthachyâh H6611 "Pethahiah" N-proper

Pethahiah was a common name in ancient Israel, meaning 'freed by Jehovah', and was borne by several notable individuals, including a priest and a Levite who helped lead the people in confession during the time of Ezra.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.11.24; son of: Meshezabel (H4898I) § Pethahiah = "freed by Jehovah" 1) a priest, in charge of the 19th course, in the time of David 2) a Levite and returning exile who had married a foreign wife; probably the same as 3 3) a Levite who helped lead in the confession of the people in the time of Ezra; probably the same as 2 4) son of Meshezabeel, descendant of Zerah the son of Judah; deputy of the king in all matters concerning the people

Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: Pethakiah. See also: 1 Chronicles 24:16; Nehemiah 9:5; Nehemiah 11:24.

ק֗וּמוּ qûwm H6965 "-kamai" V-Qal-Impv-2mp

Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.

Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai

Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.

בָּרֲכוּ֙ bârak H1288 "to bless" V-Piel-Impv-2mp

To bless means to praise or honor God, often by kneeling in worship. In the Bible, people bless God and God blesses people, showing favor and care for them, as seen in the story of Abraham and his descendants.

Definition: 1) to bless, kneel 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to kneel 1a2) to bless 1b) (Niphal) to be blessed, bless oneself 1c) (Piel) to bless 1d) (Pual) to be blessed, be adored 1e) (Hiphil) to cause to kneel 1f) (Hithpael) to bless oneself 2) (TWOT) to praise, salute, curse Aramaic equivalent: be.rakh (בְּרַךְ "to bless" H1289)

Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abundantly, [idiom] altogether, [idiom] at all, blaspheme, bless, congratulate, curse, [idiom] greatly, [idiom] indeed, kneel (down), praise, salute, [idiom] still, thank. See also: Genesis 1:22; Deuteronomy 24:19; Job 2:9.

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.

יְהוָ֣ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

אֱלֹֽהֵי/כֶ֔ם ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" N-mp | Suff

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

מִן min H4480 "from" Prep

This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.

Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)

Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.

הָ/עוֹלָ֖ם ʻôwlâm H5769 "forever" Art | N-ms

This word means forever or always, describing something that lasts an eternity. It is used in the Bible to describe God's eternal nature and his lasting promises.

Definition: : old/ancient 1) long duration, antiquity, futurity, for ever, ever, everlasting, evermore, perpetual, old, ancient, world 1a) ancient time, long time (of past) 1b) (of future) 1b1) for ever, always 1b2) continuous existence, perpetual 1b3) everlasting, indefinite or unending future, eternity

Usage: Occurs in 413 OT verses. KJV: alway(-s), ancient (time), any more, continuance, eternal, (for, (n-)) ever(-lasting, -more, of old), lasting, long (time), (of) old (time), perpetual, at any time, (beginning of the) world ([phrase] without end). Compare H5331 (נֶצַח), H5703 (עַד). See also: Genesis 3:22; 1 Kings 8:13; Psalms 5:12.

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.

הָ/עוֹלָ֑ם ʻôwlâm H5769 "forever" Art | N-ms

This word means forever or always, describing something that lasts an eternity. It is used in the Bible to describe God's eternal nature and his lasting promises.

וִ/יבָֽרְכוּ֙ bârak H1288 "to bless" Conj | V-Piel-Juss-3mp

שֵׁ֣ם shêm H8034 "name" N-ms

In the Bible, a name represents a person's identity, honor, and character, like God's name symbolizing His power and authority. It appears in Genesis and other books, often referring to God's name or a person's reputation. This concept is central to understanding biblical identity.

Definition: 1) name 1a) name 1b) reputation, fame, glory 1c) the Name (as designation of God) 1d) memorial, monument Aramaic equivalent: shum (שֻׁם "name" H8036)

Usage: Occurs in 771 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] base, (in-) fame(-ous), named(-d), renown, report. See also: Genesis 2:11; Exodus 3:15; Deuteronomy 16:6.

כְּבוֹדֶ֔/ךָ kâbôwd H3519 "glory" N-cs | Suff

Glory refers to great honor or splendor, often used to describe God's majesty, as in Psalm 138:5 where David praises God's glorious name. It can also refer to wealth or abundance, like in Genesis 31:1 where Jacob's wealth is described.

Definition: 1) glory, honour, glorious, abundance 1a) abundance, riches 1b) honour, splendour, glory 1c) honour, dignity 1d) honour, reputation 1e) honour, reverence, glory 1f) glory

Usage: Occurs in 189 OT verses. KJV: glorious(-ly), glory, honour(-able). See also: Genesis 31:1; Psalms 113:4; Psalms 3:4.

וּ/מְרוֹמַ֥ם rûwm H7311 "to exalt" Conj | V-O-Inf-c

This verb can mean to lift something or someone up, like a parent lifting a child, or to exalt oneself in pride. In the Bible, it's used to describe God lifting up the humble and bringing down the proud.

Definition: 1) to rise, rise up, be high, be lofty, be exalted 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be high, be set on high 1a2) to be raised, be uplifted, be exalted 1a3) to be lifted, rise 1b) (Polel) 1b1) to raise or rear (children), cause to grow up 1b2) to lift up, raise, exalt 1b3) to exalt, extol 1c) (Polal) to be lifted up 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to raise, lift, lift up, take up, set up, erect, exalt, set on high 1d2) to lift up (and take away), remove 1d3) to lift off and present, contribute, offer, contribute 1e) (Hophal) to be taken off, be abolished 1f) (Hithpolel) to exalt oneself, magnify oneself Aramaic equivalent: rum (רוּם "to rise" H7313)

Usage: Occurs in 184 OT verses. KJV: bring up, exalt (self), extol, give, go up, haughty, heave (up), (be, lift up on, make on, set up on, too) high(-er, one), hold up, levy, lift(-er) up, (be) lofty, ([idiom] a-) loud, mount up, offer (up), [phrase] presumptuously, (be) promote(-ion), proud, set up, tall(-er), take (away, off, up), breed worms. See also: Genesis 7:17; Psalms 46:11; Psalms 3:4.

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.

כָּל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

בְּרָכָ֖ה Bᵉrâkâh H1293 "blessing" N-fs

In the Bible, a blessing is a gift from God, bringing prosperity and praise. It appears in Genesis and Psalms, where people bless God and each other. This concept is central to Jewish and Christian traditions.

Definition: 1) blessing 2) (source of) blessing 3) blessing, prosperity 4) blessing, praise of God 5) a gift, present 6) treaty of peace

Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: blessing, liberal, pool, present. See also: Genesis 12:2; 2 Kings 5:15; Psalms 3:9.

וּ/תְהִלָּֽה tᵉhillâh H8416 "praise" Conj | N-fs

Tehillah means praise or a song of praise, often directed towards God. It can also refer to a hymn or an act of public praise, acknowledging God's qualities or deeds.

Definition: 1) praise, song or hymn of praise 1a) praise, adoration, thanksgiving (paid to God) 1b) act of general or public praise 1c) praise-song (as title) 1d) praise (demanded by qualities or deeds or attributes of God) 1e) renown, fame, glory 1e1) of Damascus, God 1e2) object of praise, possessor of renown (fig)

Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: praise. See also: Exodus 15:11; Psalms 106:47; Psalms 9:15.

Study Notes — Nehemiah 9:5

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Nehemiah 9:5 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 9:5
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 9:5
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 9:5
Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 9:5
Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5
Sermons on Nehemiah 9:5

Context — The People Confess Their Sins

3While they stood in their places, they read from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God for a quarter of the day, and they spent another quarter of the day in confession and worship of the LORD their God. 4And the Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Kadmiel, Shebaniah, Bunni, Sherebiah, Bani, and Chenani—stood on the raised platform and cried out in a loud voice to the LORD their God.

5Then the Levites—Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah—said, “Stand up and bless the LORD your God from everlasting to everlasting: Blessed be Your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise.

6You alone are the LORD. You created the heavens, the highest heavens with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to all things, and the host of heaven worships You. 7You are the LORD, the God who chose Abram, who brought him out of Ur of the Chaldeans and gave him the name Abraham.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Psalms 103:1–2	Bless the LORD, O my soul; all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His kind deeds—
2	1 Peter 1:3	Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
3	2 Corinthians 4:6	For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
4	Matthew 11:25	At that time Jesus declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.
5	Ezra 3:11	And they sang responsively with praise and thanksgiving to the LORD: “For He is good; for His loving devotion to Israel endures forever.” Then all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD had been laid.
6	1 Chronicles 29:13	Now therefore, our God, we give You thanks, and we praise Your glorious name.
7	Jeremiah 33:10–11	This is what the LORD says: In this place you say is a wasteland without man or beast, in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem that are deserted—inhabited by neither man nor beast—there will be heard again the sounds of joy and gladness, the voices of the bride and bridegroom, and the voices of those bringing thank offerings into the house of the LORD, saying: ‘Give thanks to the LORD of Hosts, for the LORD is good; His loving devotion endures forever.’ For I will restore the land from captivity as in former times, says the LORD.
8	Psalms 106:2	Who can describe the mighty acts of the LORD or fully proclaim His praise?
9	Psalms 72:18–19	Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds. And blessed be His glorious name forever; may all the earth be filled with His glory. Amen and amen.
10	Psalms 117:1–2	Praise the LORD, all you nations! Extol Him, all you peoples! For great is His loving devotion toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Hallelujah!

Nehemiah 9:5 Summary

[This verse is a call to worship and praise God for who He is and what He has done. The Levites are encouraging the people to stand up and bless God, recognizing His eternal nature and sovereign power. We can do the same by giving thanks and praise to God in our daily lives, just as we see in Psalm 100:4-5 and 1 Thessalonians 5:18. By acknowledging God's greatness and faithfulness, we can exalt His name and bring glory to Him.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to bless the Lord from everlasting to everlasting?

This phrase, found in Nehemiah 9:5, means to praise and worship God for all eternity, recognizing His eternal nature and sovereign power, as also seen in Psalm 90:2 and Revelation 1:8.

Why do the Levites call God's name 'glorious' in this verse?

The Levites recognize God's name as glorious because of His mighty works and faithfulness, as noted in Exodus 34:5-7 and Psalm 72:18-19, which highlight His greatness and worthiness of praise.

How can we exalt God's name above all blessing and praise?

We can exalt God's name by giving Him the highest place in our lives, acknowledging His sovereignty and goodness, and expressing our gratitude and worship, as encouraged in Romans 11:36 and 1 Corinthians 10:31.

The Levites, as spiritual leaders, are calling the people to worship and acknowledge God's greatness, setting an example for the community to follow, as seen in Deuteronomy 33:10 and 2 Chronicles 30:27.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can bless and praise God in my daily life, just as the Levites did in this verse?
How can I cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of God's eternal nature and sovereign power?
In what ways can I exalt God's name above all blessing and praise in my own life and community?
What are some things that I can thank and praise God for, just as the Levites did in this verse?

Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 9:5

Then the Levites, Jeshua,.... Or, then the Levites, even Jeshua: and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah; the same as before, with a little variation of their

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 9:5

Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, Stand up and bless the LORD your God for ever and ever: and blessed be thy glorious name,

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5

Then the Levites said all the following words. Either therefore they all used the same words, being composed and agreed upon by Ezra and themselves; or they all prayed in the same manner, and to the same purpose, having agreed among themselves concerning the matter of their confessions and prayers. And these are the words which one of them used; and it is implied that the rest of their prayers were of the same nature. For ever and ever; from day to day, as long as you live, and to all eternity.

Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5

Nehemiah 9:5 Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah, [and] Pethahiah, said, Stand up [and] bless the LORD your God for ever and ever: and blessed be thy glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise.Ver. 5. Then the Levites, Jeshua, &c., said, Stand up] Gird yourselves, and serve the Lord, as Luke 17:8. Be instant, or stand close to the work, επιστηθι, 2 Timothy 4:2; set sides and shoulders to it; rouse up yourselves, and wrestle with God. Hoc agite, Do this, said the Roman priest to the people at their sacrifices. And Sacerdos parat fratrum mentes dicendo, Sursum corda, saith Cyprian, In the primitive times the ministers prepared the people to serve God, by saying, Lift up your hearts ( De Oratione). And bless the Lord your God for ever] Give him immortal thanks, all possible praise, amore more, ore, glorify him doingly, 1 Corinthians 10:30-31 Ephesians 1:11-12. Think of the multitude, seasonableness, suitableness, constancy, &c., of God’ s favours; and then give him the glory due unto his name; which yet we can never do, because his name is exalted above all blessing and praise (as it followeth here), so that if we should do nothing else all our days, yea, as long as the days of heaven shall last (said that martyr), but kneel upon our knees and sing over David’ s Psalms to God’ s praise, yet should we fall far short of what we owe to the Lord, who is most worthy to be praised. And blessed be thy glorious name] These holy Levites, having called upon the people to bless God, break forth into the performance of this divine duty themselves. So St Paul often, exhorting the saints to pray, falls a praying for them. Which is exalted above all blessing and praise] So that when we have done our utmost herein, we can never out do. David is oft so transported, that he seems to forget himself, as a bird that hath got a note, records it over and over, as Psalms 136:1-26, "for his mercy endureth for ever." And Psalms 150:1-6, in six verses are twelve Hallelujahs. "Praise him," saith he, Nehemiah 9:2, "according to his excellent greatness," "for great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised," Psalms 145:3; and Nehemiah 9:5, "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord," or, Let every breath praise the Lord. As oft as we breathe we are to breathe out the praises of God, and to make our breath like the perfumed smoke of the Tabernacle.

Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5

(5) Hashabniah.—Not found elsewhere. No reason is given why this company is somewhat different from the former; the LXX. arbitrarily omit all names after Kadmiel. Similarly, they insert “and Ezra said” before Nehemiah 9:6. The psalm was perhaps composed by Ezra, but uttered by the Levites in the name of the congregation. Stand up and bless . . . Blessed be.—Or, let them bless.Thou, even thou, art Lord alone.—The three phrases mark how the address to the people glides into direct adoration of God. Thy glorious name.—Literally found again in Psalms 72:19 alone.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5

Verse 5. Stand up and bless the Lord your God] It is the shameless custom of many congregations of people to sit still while they profess to bless and praise God, by singing the Psalms of David or hymns made on the plan of the Gospel! I ask such persons, Did they ever feel the spirit of devotion while thus employed? If they do, it must be owned that, by the prevalence of habit, they have counteracted the influence of an attitude most friendly to such acts of devotion.

Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 9:5

5. Then] As in Nehemiah 9:4, the ‘copula’; no very exact sequence of time is implied. Hashabniah … Hodijah] R.V. Hashabneiah … Hodiah. The Levitical names of the previous verse appear here with some variations. Bunni, the second Bani, Chenani disappear; and the names of Hashabneiah, Hodiah, Pethahiah are introduced afresh. The remaining five names are the same in both lists; and this adds to the difficulty in accounting for the variation, for there seems to be no reason for a partial change of personnel at this juncture. Very possibly the Hebrew text is in fault. The LXX. gives only two names, Jeshua and Kadmiel, but its tendency to shorten lists of names (cf. Nehemiah 8:7) diminishes the value of its testimony in the present instance. The best way of accounting for the variation is to suppose that the compiler turns at this point to a different source of information, in which there was a slight disagreement in the list of names. The compiler transcribes: he neither corrects nor explains; and the variation is evidence both of his candour and of the general honesty of subsequent copyists. Stand up] It may be questioned whether these words should be understood literally. Some commentators suppose that the Levites enjoin the people to exchange the kneeling position of prayer for the standing posture of praise. In Nehemiah 9:2 we are told the people ‘stood and confessed their sins,’ and in Nehemiah 9:3 they ‘confessed and worshipped the Lord.’ Now ‘worshipping’ is not necessarily ‘kneeling.’ Prayer and confession are quite consistent with a ‘standing position,’ cf. Nehemiah 8:5 and note. If not taken literally, it must be understood in its common metaphorical sense ‘arise,’ ‘up!’ prefacing an appeal to the laity to join in praise with the Levites. for ever and ever] R.V. from everlasting to everlasting. Cf. Psalms 41:13, ‘Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting and to everlasting,’ Psalms 90:2, ‘even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God,’ Psalms 103:17. The words are connected more appropriately with ‘the Lord your God’ than with the verb ‘bless.’ This ascription to the Eternal Jehovah is possibly taken from a familiar doxology in Jewish worship (cf. Psalms 41:13). blessed be] R.V. marg. ‘Or, let them bless’. The rendering ‘let them bless’ is more literal. The third Pers. Plur. will refer either to the Israelites or, by a more comprehensive thought, to the dwellers of the earth. But the change of person is abrupt and not without awkwardness. It is perhaps due to a quotation from a Doxology; compare a somewhat similar clause introduced in Psalms 106:48. The LXX. rendering introduces the words ‘and Ezra said’ as a prefix to this clause, as if the whole of the ensuing address were his utterance. No other evidence, however, supports this reading; but it seems to preserve a very probable tradition based on the similarity of this confession to that of Ezra in Ezra 9.

Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 9:5

Stand up - The people had knelt to confess and to worship God Nehemiah 9:3. They were now to take the proper attitude for praise. Compare throughout the margin reference.

Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 9:5

5. Stand up — The Levites thus call upon the congregation to join in offering the prayer, and probably the people, rising, responded, and blessed be thy glorious name, etc.

Sermons on Nehemiah 9:5

	Sermon	Description
	He Will Not Break a Bruised Reed by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of a man who is going through a difficult time and is feeling hopeless. Despite his despair, God patiently waits for 40 days and 40
	(Men of Whom the World Was Not Worthy) Brainerd, David Oh That I May Never Loiter in My Heavenly Jou by John Piper	The video is a sermon about the life and ministry of David Brainerd. The speaker highlights the struggles that Brainerd faced, including loneliness, physical ailments, and spiritua
	Bondage by Paris Reidhead	In this sermon, the preacher begins by exhorting the congregation to bless the Lord with all their soul and not forget His benefits. He then shares a testimony about the angel of t
	3 Truths, 3 Enemies & 4 Ways God Answers Prayer by Jack David Daniels	In this sermon, the preacher discusses three truths about prayer, three enemies of prayer, and four ways God answers prayer. He emphasizes the importance of not just talking about
	Carry His Burden by Dennis Kinlaw	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a burden for the world that is without God. He encourages the audience to bear the burden and care for others, belie
	Blessing the Blesser by J. Glyn Owen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying connected to God's power and grace in order to live a fulfilling spiritual life. He uses the analogy of trolley arm
	(Through the Bible) Psalms 101-106 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature to regain a sense of awe and reverence for God's creation. The psalmist in Psalm 104 is referenced