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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Nehemiah 5:16 Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my servants were gathered there for the work; we did not acquire any land.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/nehemiah/5-16.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/17/16_Neh_05_16.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Nehemiah 5:16 - Nehemiah's Generosity" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my servants were gathered there for the work; we did not acquire any land." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/nehemiah/5-16.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/nehemiah/5-16.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/nehemiah/">Nehemiah</a> > <a href="/nehemiah/5.htm">Chapter 5</a> > Verse 16</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad16.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/nehemiah/5-15.htm" title="Nehemiah 5:15">◄</a> Nehemiah 5:16 <a href="/nehemiah/5-17.htm" title="Nehemiah 5:17">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/nehemiah/5.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/nehemiah/5.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Instead, I devoted myself to the work on this wall. All my men were assembled there for the work; we did not acquire any land.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/nehemiah/5.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />I also devoted myself to working on the wall and refused to acquire any land. And I required all my servants to spend time working on the wall.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/nehemiah/5.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />I also persevered in the work on this wall, and we acquired no land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/nehemiah/5.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my servants were gathered there for the work; we did not acquire any land.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/nehemiah/5.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants <i>were</i> gathered thither unto the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/nehemiah/5.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Indeed, I also continued the work on this wall, and we did not buy any land. All my servants <i>were</i> gathered there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/nehemiah/5.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/nehemiah/5.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/nehemiah/5.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />And I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/nehemiah/5.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />I also took hold of the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my young men were gathered there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/nehemiah/5.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />I also applied myself to the work on this wall; we did not buy any land, and all my servants were gathered together there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/nehemiah/5.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of this wall, and all my subordinates were gathered there for the work. We didn’t buy any land.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/nehemiah/5.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my subordinates were gathered there for the work. We didn&#8217t buy any land. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/nehemiah/5.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/nehemiah/5.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />I spent all my time getting the wall rebuilt and did not buy any property. Everyone working for me did the same thing. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/nehemiah/5.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/nehemiah/5.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Instead, I put my best effort into the work on this wall, and we bought no land. All my men gathered here for work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/nehemiah/5.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />I put all my energy into rebuilding the wall and did not acquire any property. Everyone who worked for me joined in the rebuilding. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/nehemiah/5.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Also, as I continued to work on the wall, we purchased no land, and all of my young men were employed in the work. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/nehemiah/5.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall, and all my servants were gathered there for the work; we did not acquire any land.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/nehemiah/5.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />I gave myself to the work on this wall, without even purchasing a field. All my associates were gathered there for the work. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/nehemiah/5.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Yes, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered there to the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/nehemiah/5.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither to the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/nehemiah/5.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Yes, I also continued in the work of this wall. We didn’t buy any land. All my servants were gathered there to the work. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/nehemiah/5.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />And also, in the work of this wall I have done mightily, even a field we have not bought, and all my servants are gathered there for the work;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/nehemiah/5.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> And also, in the work of this wall I have done mightily, even a field we have not bought, and all my servants are gathered there for the work;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/nehemiah/5.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And also I held fast upon the work of this wall, and we bought not a field: and all my young men being gathered there for the work.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/nehemiah/5.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Moreover I built in the work of the wall, and I bought no land, and all my servants were gathered together to the work. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/nehemiah/5.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />In fact, I preferred to build in the work of the wall, and I bought no land, and all my servants were gathered to do the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/nehemiah/5.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />In addition, though I had acquired no land of my own, I did my part in this work on the wall, and all my attendants were gathered there for the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/nehemiah/5.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Indeed, I devoted myself to the work on this wall, and acquired no land; and all my servants were gathered there for the work.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/nehemiah/5.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Also I was greatly occupied with the work of this wall, and I bought no fields; and all the Jewish servants were gathered there, supervising the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/nehemiah/5.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Also in the work of this wall I was greatly strengthened, and I have not bought fields, and all the boys, the sons of the Judeans, were gathered, and they stood there over the work.<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/nehemiah/5.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Yea, also I set hand to the work of this wall, neither bought we any land; and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/nehemiah/5.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Also in the work of the wall I treated them not with rigor, I bought not land: and all that were gathered together <i>came</i> thither to the work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZsQrw7rBvgc?start=1211" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/nehemiah/5.htm">Nehemiah's Generosity</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">15</span>The governors before me had heavily burdened the people, taking from them bread and wine plus forty shekels of silver. Their servants also oppressed the people, but I did not do this because of my fear of God. <span class="reftext">16</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: wə·ḡam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">Instead,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2388.htm" title="2388: he·ḥĕ·zaq·tî (V-Hifil-Perf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong, obstinate; to bind, restrain, conquer.">I devoted myself</a> <a href="/hebrew/4399.htm" title="4399: bim·le·ḵeṯ (Prep-b:: N-fsc) -- From the same as mal'ak; properly, deputyship, i.e. Ministry; generally, employment or work; also property.">to the construction</a> <a href="/hebrew/2063.htm" title="2063: haz·zōṯ (Art:: Pro-fs) -- Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that. Irregular feminine of zeh; this.">of the</a> <a href="/hebrew/2346.htm" title="2346: ha·ḥō·w·māh (Art:: N-fs) -- A wall. Feminine active participle of an unused root apparently meaning to join; a wall of protection.">wall,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: wə·ḵāl (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">and all</a> <a href="/hebrew/5288.htm" title="5288: nə·‘ā·ray (N-mpc:: 1cs) -- A boy, lad, youth, retainer. From na'ar; a boy, from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also, a girl.">my servants</a> <a href="/hebrew/6908.htm" title="6908: qə·ḇū·ṣîm (V-Qal-QalPassPrtcpl-mp) -- To gather, collect. A primitive root; to grasp, i.e. Collect.">were gathered</a> <a href="/hebrew/8033.htm" title="8033: šām (Adv) -- There, thither. A primitive particle; there then; often thither, or thence.">there</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">for</a> <a href="/hebrew/4399.htm" title="4399: ham·mə·lā·ḵāh (Art:: N-fs) -- From the same as mal'ak; properly, deputyship, i.e. Ministry; generally, employment or work; also property.">the work;</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">we did not</a> <a href="/hebrew/7069.htm" title="7069: qā·nî·nū (V-Qal-Perf-1cp) -- A primitive root; to erect, i.e. Create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase; by implication to own.">acquire</a> <a href="/hebrew/7704.htm" title="7704: wə·śā·ḏeh (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- Field, land. Or saday; from an unused root meaning to spread out; a field.">any land.</a> </span><span class="reftext">17</span>There were 150 Jews and officials at my table, besides the guests from the surrounding nations.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/20-34.htm">Acts 20:34-35</a></span><br />You yourselves know that these hands of mine have ministered to my own needs and those of my companions. / In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-12.htm">1 Corinthians 9:12</a></span><br />If others have this right to your support, shouldn’t we have it all the more? But we did not exercise this right. Instead, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-9.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:9</a></span><br />Surely you recall, brothers, our labor and toil. We worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to anyone while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_thessalonians/3-8.htm">2 Thessalonians 3:8</a></span><br />nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. Instead, in labor and toil, we worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to any of you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/4-17.htm">Philippians 4:17</a></span><br />Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/5-18.htm">1 Timothy 5:18</a></span><br />For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and, “The worker is worthy of his wages.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/4-12.htm">1 Corinthians 4:12</a></span><br />We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">2 Corinthians 11:9</a></span><br />And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have refrained from being a burden to you in any way, and I will continue to do so.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">2 Corinthians 12:14</a></span><br />See, I am ready to come to you a third time, and I will not be a burden, because I am not seeking your possessions, but you. For children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2-3</a></span><br />Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; / not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/18-3.htm">Acts 18:3</a></span><br />and he stayed and worked with them because they were tentmakers by trade, just as he was.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-18.htm">1 Corinthians 9:18</a></span><br />What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not use up my rights in preaching it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">2 Corinthians 6:3-10</a></span><br />We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no one can discredit our ministry. / Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities; / in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in labor, sleepless nights, and hunger; ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/10-24.htm">1 Corinthians 10:24</a></span><br />No one should seek his own good, but the good of others.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/15-1.htm">Romans 15:1-3</a></span><br />We who are strong ought to bear with the shortcomings of the weak and not to please ourselves. / Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. / For even Christ did not please Himself, but as it is written: “The insults of those who insult You have fallen on Me.”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Yes, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither to the work.</p><p class="hdg">I continued</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/8-15.htm">Luke 8:15</a></b></br> But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep <i>it</i>, and bring forth fruit with patience.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/romans/2-7.htm">Romans 2:7</a></b></br> To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_corinthians/15-58.htm">1 Corinthians 15:58</a></b></br> Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.</p><p class="hdg">neither bought</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/numbers/16-15.htm">Numbers 16:15</a></b></br> And Moses was very wroth, and said unto the LORD, Respect not thou their offering: I have not taken one ass from them, neither have I hurt one of them.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/20-33.htm">Acts 20:33-35</a></b></br> I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5,6</a></b></br> For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God <i>is</i> witness: … </p><p class="hdg">all my</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/12-16.htm">2 Corinthians 12:16-18</a></b></br> But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/philippians/2-20.htm">Philippians 2:20,21</a></b></br> For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ruth/4-5.htm">Acquire</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/32-29.htm">Acquired</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/12-14.htm">Applied</a> <a href="/ezra/10-1.htm">Assembled</a> <a href="/nehemiah/5-8.htm">Bought</a> <a href="/nehemiah/5-3.htm">Buy</a> <a href="/nehemiah/5-9.htm">Continued</a> <a href="/ezra/7-10.htm">Devoted</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/31-5.htm">Field</a> <a href="/nehemiah/5-11.htm">Fields</a> <a href="/ezra/10-9.htm">Gathered</a> <a href="/nehemiah/4-23.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/nehemiah/5-8.htm">Held</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/36-1.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/nehemiah/4-23.htm">Kept</a> <a href="/2_kings/3-24.htm">Mightily</a> <a href="/nehemiah/4-10.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/nehemiah/5-15.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/nehemiah/4-20.htm">Thither</a> <a href="/nehemiah/4-19.htm">Wall</a> <a href="/nehemiah/4-21.htm">Work</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/90-12.htm">Acquire</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/2-7.htm">Acquired</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-32.htm">Applied</a> <a href="/nehemiah/8-1.htm">Assembled</a> <a href="/job/28-15.htm">Bought</a> <a href="/nehemiah/10-31.htm">Buy</a> <a href="/nehemiah/12-37.htm">Continued</a> <a href="/psalms/86-2.htm">Devoted</a> <a href="/nehemiah/13-10.htm">Field</a> <a href="/nehemiah/11-25.htm">Fields</a> <a href="/nehemiah/8-1.htm">Gathered</a> <a href="/nehemiah/6-5.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/esther/1-6.htm">Held</a> <a href="/esther/2-4.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/nehemiah/6-17.htm">Kept</a> <a href="/psalms/12-4.htm">Mightily</a> <a href="/nehemiah/10-32.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/nehemiah/7-46.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/nehemiah/13-9.htm">Thither</a> <a href="/nehemiah/6-1.htm">Wall</a> <a href="/nehemiah/6-3.htm">Work</a><div class="vheading2">Nehemiah 5</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/nehemiah/5-1.htm">The Jews complain of their debt, mortgage, and bondage</a></span><br><span class="reftext">6. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/nehemiah/5-6.htm">Nehemiah rebukes the usurers, and causes them to make a covenant of restitution</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/nehemiah/5-14.htm">He forbears his own allowance, and keeps hospitality</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/nehemiah/5.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/nehemiah/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/nehemiah/5.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Instead, I devoted myself to the construction of the wall</b><br>Nehemiah's commitment to rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem highlights his leadership and dedication to God's work. This phrase underscores his personal involvement, contrasting with leaders who might delegate tasks without personal investment. Nehemiah's focus on the wall reflects the importance of restoring Jerusalem's physical and spiritual integrity. The wall symbolized protection and identity for the Jewish people, aligning with God's promises to restore Israel. Nehemiah's actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate restorer and protector of His people.<p><b>and all my servants were gathered there for the work</b><br>Nehemiah's leadership extended to his servants, who were actively involved in the construction. This collective effort illustrates the unity and cooperation necessary for accomplishing God's purposes. The gathering of servants signifies a community working together, reminiscent of the early church in <a href="/acts/2-44.htm">Acts 2:44-47</a>, where believers shared everything in common. It also reflects the biblical principle of servanthood, as seen in Jesus' teachings in <a href="/mark/10-43.htm">Mark 10:43-45</a>, where greatness is equated with serving others.<p><b>we did not acquire any land</b><br>This phrase highlights Nehemiah's integrity and selflessness. Unlike other leaders who might exploit their position for personal gain, Nehemiah refrained from acquiring land, demonstrating his focus on the community's welfare over personal enrichment. This decision aligns with biblical teachings on stewardship and contentment, as seen in <a href="/1_timothy/6-6.htm">1 Timothy 6:6-10</a>. Nehemiah's actions contrast with those of leaders like King Ahab, who coveted Naboth's vineyard (1 Kings 21), emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/n/nehemiah.htm">Nehemiah</a></b><br>The central figure in this passage, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. He led the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem and is known for his dedication and leadership.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a></b><br>The city where the events take place. The rebuilding of its walls was crucial for the protection and restoration of the Jewish community after the Babylonian exile.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_wall.htm">The Wall</a></b><br>The wall of Jerusalem, which Nehemiah and the people were rebuilding. It symbolizes protection, identity, and the restoration of the Jewish people.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/s/servants.htm">Servants</a></b><br>Those who worked alongside Nehemiah. They were involved in the physical labor of rebuilding the wall and were committed to the communal effort.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/l/land_acquisition.htm">Land Acquisition</a></b><br>The act of acquiring land, which Nehemiah and his servants refrained from, demonstrating their focus on communal welfare over personal gain.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/s/selfless_leadership.htm">Selfless Leadership</a></b><br>Nehemiah exemplifies selfless leadership by prioritizing the community's needs over personal gain. Leaders today can learn from his example by focusing on serving others rather than seeking personal advancement.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/commitment_to_god's_work.htm">Commitment to God's Work</a></b><br>Nehemiah's dedication to rebuilding the wall despite challenges teaches us the importance of commitment to God's work. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their spiritual and communal responsibilities.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_involvement.htm">Community Involvement</a></b><br>The collective effort of Nehemiah and his servants highlights the power of community involvement. Christians are called to work together for the common good, supporting one another in their spiritual journeys.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/i/integrity_in_action.htm">Integrity in Action</a></b><br>By refusing to acquire land, Nehemiah demonstrates integrity and a focus on the mission. This teaches us the importance of maintaining integrity in our actions and decisions, especially when serving others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/focus_on_eternal_values.htm">Focus on Eternal Values</a></b><br>Nehemiah's actions remind us to focus on eternal values rather than temporary gains. Christians are encouraged to prioritize spiritual growth and community well-being over material possessions.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_nehemiah_5.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Nehemiah 5</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/main_themes_of_bible's_books.htm">What are the main themes of the Bible's books?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'called_by_his_purpose'_mean.htm">How is Jesus represented in each book of the Bible?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/nehemiah's_role_in_rebuilding_walls.htm">What was Nehemiah's role in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_treat_foreigners_here.htm">How does ambition align with serving God?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/nehemiah/5.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(16) <span class= "bld">I continued.</span>--<span class= "ital">I</span> <span class= "ital">repaired:</span> that is, as superintendent. His servants and himself did not take advantage of the people's poverty to acquire their land by mortgage; they were, on the contrary, absorbed in the common work.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/nehemiah/5.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 16.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">I continued in the work of this wall</span>. Literally, "I <span class="accented">repaired</span>," like the others (<a href="/nehemiah/3-4.htm">Nehemiah 3:4-31</a>). I employed myself not in buying up men's fields at low prices, and so enriching myself, but in the restoring and repairing of the wall, over which I exercised a constant superintendence. <span class="cmt_word">All my servants were gathered thither</span>. See <a href="/nehemiah/4-16.htm">Nehemiah 4:16</a>. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">Instead,</span><br /><span class="heb">וְ֠גַם</span> <span class="translit">(wə·ḡam)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> </span><span class="str2">Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I devoted myself</span><br /><span class="heb">הֶחֱזַ֔קְתִּי</span> <span class="translit">(he·ḥĕ·zaq·tî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Perfect - first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2388.htm">Strong's 2388: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fasten upon, to seize, be strong, obstinate, to bind, restrain, conquer</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to the construction</span><br /><span class="heb">בִּמְלֶ֜אכֶת</span> <span class="translit">(bim·le·ḵeṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4399.htm">Strong's 4399: </a> </span><span class="str2">Deputyship, ministry, employment, work, property</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of the</span><br /><span class="heb">הַזֹּאת֙</span> <span class="translit">(haz·zōṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Pronoun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2063.htm">Strong's 2063: </a> </span><span class="str2">Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that, </span><br /><br /><span class="word">wall,</span><br /><span class="heb">הַחוֹמָ֤ה</span> <span class="translit">(ha·ḥō·w·māh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2346.htm">Strong's 2346: </a> </span><span class="str2">A wall of protection</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and all</span><br /><span class="heb">וְכָל־</span> <span class="translit">(wə·ḵāl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">my servants</span><br /><span class="heb">נְעָרַ֔י</span> <span class="translit">(nə·‘ā·ray)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5288.htm">Strong's 5288: </a> </span><span class="str2">A boy, lad, youth, retainer</span><br /><br /><span class="word">were gathered</span><br /><span class="heb">קְבוּצִ֥ים</span> <span class="translit">(qə·ḇū·ṣîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - QalPassParticiple - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6908.htm">Strong's 6908: </a> </span><span class="str2">To gather, collect</span><br /><br /><span class="word">there</span><br /><span class="heb">שָׁ֖ם</span> <span class="translit">(šām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8033.htm">Strong's 8033: </a> </span><span class="str2">There, then, thither</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for</span><br /><span class="heb">עַל־</span> <span class="translit">(‘al-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> </span><span class="str2">Above, over, upon, against</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the work;</span><br /><span class="heb">הַמְּלָאכָֽה׃</span> <span class="translit">(ham·mə·lā·ḵāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4399.htm">Strong's 4399: </a> </span><span class="str2">Deputyship, ministry, employment, work, property</span><br /><br /><span class="word">we did not</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹ֣א</span> <span class="translit">(lō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">acquire</span><br /><span class="heb">קָנִ֑ינוּ</span> <span class="translit">(qā·nî·nū)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7069.htm">Strong's 7069: </a> </span><span class="str2">To erect, create, to procure, by purchase, to own</span><br /><br /><span class="word">any land.</span><br /><span class="heb">וְשָׂדֶ֖ה</span> <span class="translit">(wə·śā·ḏeh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7704.htm">Strong's 7704: </a> </span><span class="str2">Field, land</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/nehemiah/5-16.htm">Nehemiah 5:16 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/nehemiah/5-16.htm">OT History: Nehemiah 5:16 Yes also I continued in the work (Neh Ne) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/nehemiah/5-15.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Nehemiah 5:15"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Nehemiah 5:15" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/nehemiah/5-17.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Nehemiah 5:17"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Nehemiah 5:17" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>