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I will need it to make beams for the gates of the Temple fortress, for the city walls, and for a house for myself.” And the king granted these requests, because the gracious hand of God was on me. <a href="/esv/nehemiah/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the fortress of the temple, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall occupy.” And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me. <a href="/bsb/nehemiah/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house I will occupy.” And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests. <a href="/kjv/nehemiah/2.htm">King James Bible</a> And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me. <a href="/nkjv/nehemiah/2.htm">New King James Version</a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he must give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which pertains to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house that I will occupy.” And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me. <a href="/nasb_/nehemiah/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which is by the temple, for the wall of the city, and for the house to which I will go.” And the king granted them to me because the good hand of my God was on me. <a href="/nasb/nehemiah/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king&#8217s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the fortress which is by the temple, for the wall of the city and for the house to which I will go.&#8221 And the king granted them to me because the good hand of my God was on me. <a href="/nasb77/nehemiah/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the fortress which is by the temple, for the wall of the city, and for the house to which I will go.” And the king granted them to me because the good hand of my God was on me. <a href="/lsb/nehemiah/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the fortress which is by the house of God, for the wall of the city and for the house to which I will go.” And the king granted them to me because the good hand of my God was on me. <a href="/amp/nehemiah/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to construct beams for the gates of the fortress which is by the temple, and for the city wall and for the house which I will occupy.” And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me. <a href="/csb/nehemiah/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> And let me have a letter written to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to rebuild the gates of the temple’s fortress, the city wall, and the home where I will live.” The king granted my requests, for the gracious hand of my God was on me. <a href="/hcsb/nehemiah/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> And let me have a letter written to Asaph, keeper of the king&#8217s forest, so that he will give me timber to rebuild the gates of the temple&#8217s fortress, the city wall, and the home where I will live.&#8221 The king granted my requests, for I was graciously strengthened by my God. <a href="/asv/nehemiah/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> and a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the castle which appertaineth to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me. <a href="/cev/nehemiah/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I will need timber to rebuild the gates of the fortress near the temple and more timber to construct the city wall and to build a place for me to live. And so, I would appreciate a letter to Asaph, who is in charge of the royal forest." God was good to me, and the king did everything I asked. <a href="/erv/nehemiah/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> and a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the castle which appertaineth to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me. <a href="/gwt/nehemiah/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Also, let me have a letter addressed to Asaph, the supervisor of Your Majesty's forest. In the letter order him to give me wood for the gates of the fortress near the temple, for the city wall, and for the house I'll move into." (The king let me have the letters, because God was guiding me.) <a href="/gnt/nehemiah/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> I asked also for a letter to Asaph, keeper of the royal forests, instructing him to supply me with timber for the gates of the fort that guards the Temple, for the city walls, and for the house I was to live in. The emperor gave me all I asked for, because God was with me. <a href="/isv/nehemiah/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> along with a letter to Asaph, the royal Commissioner of Forests, so that he will supply me with timber to craft beams for the gatehouses of the Temple, for the city walls, and for the house in which I will be living." The king granted this for me, according to the good hand of my God. <a href="/net/nehemiah/2.htm">NET Bible</a> and a letter for Asaph the keeper of the king's nature preserve, so that he will give me timber for beams for the gates of the fortress adjacent to the temple and for the city wall and for the house to which I go." So the king granted me these requests, for the good hand of my God was on me. <a href="/nheb/nehemiah/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple, for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into." The king granted my requests, because of the good hand of my God on me. <a href="/wbt/nehemiah/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/nehemiah/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house I will occupy.” And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests. <a href="/web/nehemiah/2.htm">World English Bible</a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple, for the wall of the city, and for the house that I will occupy.” The king granted my requests, because of the good hand of my God on me. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/nehemiah/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and a letter to Asaph, keeper of the paradise that the king has, that he give to me trees for beams [for] the gates of the palace that the house has, and for the wall of the city, and for the house into which I enter”; and the king gives to me, according to the good hand of my God on me. <a href="/ylt/nehemiah/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and a letter unto Asaph, keeper of the paradise that the king hath, that he give to me trees for beams for the gates of the palace that the house hath, and for the wall of the city, and for the house into which I enter;' and the king giveth to me, according to the good hand of my God upon me. <a href="/slt/nehemiah/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And a letter to Asaph watching the pleasure-grounds to the king, who shall give to me woods to frame the gates of the fortress that is to the house, and for the walls of the city, and for the house which I shall come into it And the king will give to me according to the good hand of my God upon me.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/nehemiah/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, to give me timber that I may cover the gates of the tower of the house, and the walls of the city, and the house that I shall enter into. And the king gave me according to the good hand of my God with me. <a href="/cpdv/nehemiah/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, so that he may give me timber, in order that I may be able to cover the gates of the tower of the house, and the walls of the city, and the house that I will enter.” And the king granted to me in accord with the good hand of my God, who is with me. <a href="/nabre/nehemiah/2.htm">New American Bible</a> also a letter for Asaph, the keeper of the royal woods, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the temple citadel, for the city wall and the house that I will occupy.” Since I enjoyed the good favor of my God, the king granted my requests. <a href="/nrsvce/nehemiah/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, directing him to give me timber to make beams for the gates of the temple fortress, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall occupy.” And the king granted me what I asked, for the gracious hand of my God was upon me.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/nehemiah/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the temple and for the castle and for the walls of the city and for the house that I shall dwell in it. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me. <a href="/hpbt/nehemiah/2.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And a letter to Asaph, Keeper of the Paradise of the King, to give me wood to make the gates of the house and of the palace and of streets of the city, and for the house that I may enter it.” And the King gave to me, according to the hand of my God who did good to me.<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/nehemiah/2.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> and a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's park, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the castle which appertaineth to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into.' And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me. <a href="/sep/nehemiah/2.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the garden which belongs to the king, that he may give me timber to cover the gates, and for the wall of the city, and for the house into which I shall enter. And the king gave to me, according as the good hand of God was upon me. <a href="/parallel/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZsQrw7rBvgc?start=229" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/nehemiah/2.htm">Nehemiah Sent to Jerusalem</a> …7I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may letters be given to me for the governors west of the Euphrates, so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah. 8<a href="/hebrew/107.htm" title="107: wə·’ig·ge·reṯ (Conj-w:: N-fs) -- A letter. Feminine of 'iggra'; an epistle.">And may I have a letter</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/623.htm" title="623: ’ā·sāp̄ (N-proper-ms) -- Gatherer, the name of several Isr. From 'acaph; collector; Asaph, the name of three Israelites, and of the family of the first.">Asaph,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: šō·mêr (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">keeper</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc.">of the king’s</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: lam·me·leḵ (Prep-l, Art:: N-ms) -- King. From malak; a king."></a> <a href="/hebrew/6508.htm" title="6508: hap·par·dês (Art:: N-ms) -- A preserve, park. Of foreign origin; a park.">forest,</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc.">so that</a> <a href="/hebrew/5414.htm" title="5414: yit·ten- (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To give, put, set. A primitive root; to give, used with greatest latitude of application.">he will give</a> <a href="/hebrew/lî (Prep:: 1cs) -- ">me</a> <a href="/hebrew/6086.htm" title="6086: ‘ê·ṣîm (N-mp) -- Tree, trees, wood. From atsah; a tree; hence, wood.">timber</a> <a href="/hebrew/7136.htm" title="7136: lə·qā·rō·wṯ (Prep-l:: V-Piel-Inf) -- A primitive root; to light upon; causatively, to bring about; specifically, to impose timbers.">to make beams</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’eṯ- (DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self.">for</a> <a href="/hebrew/8179.htm" title="8179: ša·‘ă·rê (N-mpc) -- A gate. From sha'ar in its original sense; an opening, i.e. Door or gate.">the gates</a> <a href="/hebrew/1002.htm" title="1002: hab·bî·rāh (Art:: N-fs) -- A castle, palace. Of foreign origin; a castle or palace.">of the citadel</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer- (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1004.htm" title="1004: lab·ba·yiṯ (Prep-l, Art:: N-ms) -- A house. Probably from banah abbreviated; a house.">to the temple,</a> <a href="/hebrew/5892.htm" title="5892: hā·‘îr (Art:: N-fs) -- Excitement. Or par; or ayar; from uwr a city in the widest sense.">for the city</a> <a href="/hebrew/2346.htm" title="2346: ū·lə·ḥō·w·maṯ (Conj-w, Prep-l:: N-fsc) -- A wall. Feminine active participle of an unused root apparently meaning to join; a wall of protection.">wall,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1004.htm" title="1004: wə·lab·ba·yiṯ (Conj-w, Prep-l, Art:: N-ms) -- A house. Probably from banah abbreviated; a house.">and for the house</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer- (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc."></a> <a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: ’ā·ḇō·w (V-Qal-Imperf-1cs) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">I will occupy.”</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’ê·lāw (Prep:: 3ms) -- To, into, towards. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/2896.htm" title="2896: haṭ·ṭō·w·ḇāh (Art:: Adj-fs) -- Pleasant, agreeable, good.">And because the gracious</a> <a href="/hebrew/3027.htm" title="3027: kə·yaḏ- (Prep-k:: N-fsc) -- Hand (indicating power, means, direction, etc.)">hand</a> <a href="/hebrew/430.htm" title="430: ’ĕ·lō·hay (N-mpc:: 1cs) -- Plural of 'elowahh; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used of the supreme God">of my God</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘ā·lāy (Prep:: 1cs) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">was upon me,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: ham·me·leḵ (Art:: N-ms) -- King. From malak; a king.">the king</a> <a href="/hebrew/5414.htm" title="5414: way·yit·ten- (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To give, put, set. A primitive root; to give, used with greatest latitude of application.">granted</a> <a href="/hebrew/lî (Prep:: 1cs) -- ">my requests.</a> 9Then I went to the governors west of the Euphrates and gave them the king’s letters. The king had also sent army officers and cavalry with me.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/ezra/7-6.htm">Ezra 7:6</a> this Ezra came up from Babylon. He was a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted Ezra all his requests, for the hand of the LORD his God was upon him. <a href="/ezra/7-27.htm">Ezra 7:27-28</a> Blessed be the LORD, the God of our fathers, who has put into the heart of the king to so honor the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, / and who has shown me favor before the king, his counselors, and all his powerful officials. And because the hand of the LORD my God was upon me, I took courage and gathered the leaders of Israel to return with me. <a href="/proverbs/21-1.htm">Proverbs 21:1</a> The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases. <a href="/psalms/106-46.htm">Psalm 106:46</a> He made them objects of compassion to all who held them captive. <a href="/daniel/1-9.htm">Daniel 1:9</a> Now God had granted Daniel favor and compassion from the chief official, <a href="/esther/4-11.htm">Esther 4:11</a> “All the royal officials and the people of the king’s provinces know that one law applies to every man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned—that he be put to death. Only if the king extends the gold scepter may that person live. But I have not been summoned to appear before the king for the past thirty days.” <a href="/esther/5-2.htm">Esther 5:2</a> As soon as the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, she found favor in his sight. The king extended the gold scepter in his hand toward Esther, and she approached and touched the tip of the scepter. <a href="/isaiah/45-13.htm">Isaiah 45:13</a> I will raise up Cyrus in righteousness, and I will make all his ways straight. He will rebuild My city and set My exiles free, but not for payment or reward, says the LORD of Hosts.” <a href="/1_kings/8-50.htm">1 Kings 8:50</a> May You forgive Your people who have sinned against You and all the transgressions they have committed against You, and may You grant them compassion in the eyes of their captors to show them mercy. <a href="/2_chronicles/30-12.htm">2 Chronicles 30:12</a> Moreover, the power of God was on the people in Judah to give them one heart to obey the command of the king and his officials according to the word of the LORD. <a href="/acts/7-10.htm">Acts 7:10</a> and rescued him from all his troubles. He granted Joseph favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt, who appointed him ruler over Egypt and all his household. <a href="/acts/18-10.htm">Acts 18:10</a> For I am with you and no one will lay a hand on you, because I have many people in this city.” <a href="/romans/8-28.htm">Romans 8:28</a> And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-16.htm">2 Corinthians 8:16</a> But thanks be to God, who put into the heart of Titus the same devotion I have for you. <a href="/philippians/2-13.htm">Philippians 2:13</a> For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God on me.the wall<a href="/nehemiah/2-17.htm">Nehemiah 2:17</a> Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.<a href="/nehemiah/3-1.htm">Nehemiah 3:1</a> Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and they builded the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananeel.the house<a href="/nehemiah/3-7.htm">Nehemiah 3:7</a> And next unto them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite, and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon, and of Mizpah, unto the throne of the governor on this side the river.<a href="/nehemiah/7-2.htm">Nehemiah 7:2</a> That I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many.the king<a href="/nehemiah/2-18.htm">Nehemiah 2:18</a> Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.<a href="/genesis/32-28.htm">Genesis 32:28</a> And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed.<a href="/ezra/5-5.htm">Ezra 5:5</a> But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this matter.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/numbers/16-33.htm">Appertained</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/26-18.htm">Appertaineth</a> <a href="/ezra/3-10.htm">Asaph</a> <a href="/ezra/5-8.htm">Beams</a> <a href="/nehemiah/1-1.htm">Castle</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-5.htm">City</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/30-8.htm">Enter</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/27-4.htm">Forest</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-3.htm">Gates</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-7.htm">Good</a> <a href="/ezra/7-6.htm">Granted</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-5.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/nehemiah/1-6.htm">House</a> <a href="/ezra/1-8.htm">Keeper</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-7.htm">King's</a> <a href="/ezra/7-11.htm">Letter</a> <a href="/nehemiah/1-1.htm">Palace</a> <a href="/songs/4-13.htm">Park</a> <a href="/ezra/6-11.htm">Timber</a> <a href="/nehemiah/1-3.htm">Wall</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/nehemiah/3-7.htm">Appertained</a> <a href="/leviticus/6-5.htm">Appertaineth</a> <a href="/nehemiah/7-44.htm">Asaph</a> <a href="/nehemiah/3-3.htm">Beams</a> <a href="/nehemiah/7-2.htm">Castle</a> <a href="/nehemiah/3-6.htm">City</a> <a href="/nehemiah/9-15.htm">Enter</a> <a href="/psalms/50-10.htm">Forest</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-13.htm">Gates</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-18.htm">Good</a> <a href="/esther/2-18.htm">Granted</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-18.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/nehemiah/3-10.htm">House</a> <a href="/nehemiah/3-29.htm">Keeper</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-9.htm">King's</a> <a href="/nehemiah/6-5.htm">Letter</a> <a href="/nehemiah/3-25.htm">Palace</a> <a href="/songs/4-13.htm">Park</a> <a href="/songs/3-9.htm">Timber</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-15.htm">Wall</a><div class="vheading2">Nehemiah 2</div>1. <a href="/nehemiah/2-1.htm">Artaxerxes, understanding the cause of Nehemiah's sadness, </a> 6. <a href="/nehemiah/2-6.htm">sends him with letters and commission to Jerusalem</a> 9. <a href="/nehemiah/2-9.htm">Nehemiah, to the grief of the enemies, comes to Jerusalem</a> 12. <a href="/nehemiah/2-12.htm">He views secretly the ruins of the walls</a> 17. <a href="/nehemiah/2-17.htm">He incites the Jews to build</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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/2.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/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, Nehemiah requests a letter to Asaph, indicating the importance of official documentation in the Persian Empire. Asaph's role as the keeper of the king's forest suggests a position of significant responsibility, overseeing resources vital for construction and royal projects. This forest, likely located in Lebanon, was renowned for its quality timber, used in significant building projects, including Solomon's Temple (<a href="/1_kings/5-6.htm">1 Kings 5:6</a>). The request highlights the necessity of securing materials for rebuilding efforts and the strategic planning involved in Nehemiah's mission.so that he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel to the temple, The timber was intended for structural purposes, emphasizing the need for strong materials to ensure the durability of the gates. The citadel refers to a fortified area near the temple, crucial for the protection of Jerusalem. This request underscores the importance of security and defense in the restoration of the city. The temple's proximity to the citadel highlights its central role in the spiritual and communal life of the Jewish people, reflecting the priority of worship and religious observance in Nehemiah's plans.for the city wall, Rebuilding the city wall was essential for the protection and identity of Jerusalem. Walls in ancient cities symbolized strength and security, and their restoration was vital for the city's defense against enemies. The wall's reconstruction also represented a renewal of the community's social and religious life, as it allowed the inhabitants to live without fear of external threats. This effort fulfilled prophecies of restoration and renewal, as seen in <a href="/isaiah/58-12.htm">Isaiah 58:12</a>, where the rebuilding of ancient ruins is promised.and for the house I will occupy.” Nehemiah's request for timber for his own house indicates the practical needs of leadership. As governor, he required a residence that would serve as a base for his administrative duties. This personal provision also reflects the broader theme of restoration, as Nehemiah's leadership was crucial for the successful rebuilding of Jerusalem. His house would symbolize stability and governance, essential for the community's reestablishment.And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, Nehemiah attributes his success to divine favor, recognizing God's sovereignty and providence in the unfolding events. This acknowledgment of God's hand reflects a recurring biblical theme where God's intervention is seen in the lives of His people (<a href="/ezra/7-6.htm">Ezra 7:6, 9</a>). It underscores the belief that human efforts are ultimately dependent on divine blessing and guidance, a principle that encourages faith and reliance on God.the king granted my requests. The king's approval of Nehemiah's requests demonstrates the influence of God's favor in the hearts of rulers (<a href="/proverbs/21.htm">Proverbs 21:1</a>). This outcome highlights the interplay between divine providence and human authority, where God uses earthly powers to accomplish His purposes. The king's support was crucial for the success of Nehemiah's mission, illustrating how God can work through secular authorities to fulfill His plans for His people.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/n/nehemiah.htm">Nehemiah</a> A Jewish cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, who is deeply concerned about the welfare of Jerusalem and its people. 2. <a href="/topical/k/king_artaxerxes.htm">King Artaxerxes</a> The Persian king who grants Nehemiah's request to return to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls. 3. <a href="/topical/a/asaph.htm">Asaph</a> The keeper of the king’s forest, responsible for providing the timber needed for Nehemiah’s construction projects. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_king's_forest.htm">The King’s Forest</a> A royal resource managed by Asaph, providing essential materials for the rebuilding efforts. 5. <a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a> The city whose walls Nehemiah is determined to rebuild, symbolizing the restoration of the Jewish community and their faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/d/divine_favor_and_human_initiative.htm">Divine Favor and Human Initiative</a> Nehemiah’s success was due to both his initiative and God’s favor. Believers should take action while trusting in God’s guidance and provision. <a href="/topical/p/prayer_and_planning.htm">Prayer and Planning</a> Nehemiah’s request was preceded by prayer and careful planning. Effective ministry and leadership require both spiritual and practical preparation. <a href="/topical/g/god's_provision.htm">God’s Provision</a> Just as God provided resources for Nehemiah, He will supply what is needed for His work today. Trust in His provision is essential. <a href="/topical/c/courage_in_leadership.htm">Courage in Leadership</a> Nehemiah’s boldness in approaching the king demonstrates the courage required in leadership, especially when pursuing God’s purposes. <a href="/topical/c/community_restoration.htm">Community Restoration</a> The rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls symbolizes the restoration of community and faith. Believers are called to participate in the restoration of their communities.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_nehemiah_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Nehemiah 2</a> <a href="/q/why_is_nehemiah_2_rarely_corroborated.htm">Why do other biblical or historical records rarely corroborate Nehemiah’s account of official support from the Persian Empire (Nehemiah 2)?</a> <a href="/q/how_was_jerusalem's_wall_rebuilt_in_52_days.htm">In Nehemiah 6:15, how is it historically or archaeologically plausible to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall in just 52 days? </a> <a href="/q/what_do_ezra_and_nehemiah_teach.htm">What lessons do Ezra and Nehemiah's stories teach us?</a> <a href="/q/nehemiah_4_6__could_the_wall_rise_so_fast.htm">Nehemiah 4:6: Is it physically plausible for the wall to reach “half its height” so quickly with the limited manpower described? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/nehemiah/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(8) Keeper of the king's forest.--Asaph, a Jew, was keeper of an artificial park or pleasure ground near Jerusalem: the Persian pardes, whence our "Paradise." It was well planted with trees, as timber was to be supplied from it "for the gates of the palace," rather the fortress, which protected "the house," or temple, and was known in Roman times as Antonia; also for the city walls; also "for the house that I shall enter into," that is, Nehemiah's own house, for his being appointed governor is pre-supposed.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/nehemiah/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 8. - The king's forest. Patrick supposes the forest on Mount Lebanon to be intended; but Nehemiah would scarcely have desired to transport timber for ordinary building purposes from such a distance. Moreover, the word used is one not applicable to a natural forest, but only to a park, or pleasure-ground planted with trees, and surrounded by a fence or wall. The word is pardes, the Hebrew representative of that Persian term which the Greeks rendered by παράδεισος, whence our "paradise." We must understand a royal park in the vicinity of Jerusalem, of which a Jew, Asaph, was the keeper. The palace which appertained to the house. The "house" here spoken of is undoubtedly the temple; and the birah, appertaining to it is, almost certainly, the fortress at the north-west angle of the temple area, which at once commanded and protected it. Josephus says ('Ant. Jud.,' 15:11, § 4) that this fortress was called Βάρις originally. In Roman times it was known as the "Turris Antonia." The house that I shall enter into. The governor's residence. Nehemiah assumes that the powers for which he asks involve his being appointed governor of Judaea. The king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me. Through God's special favour towards me, the king was induced to grant my request. CHAPTER 2:9-11 NEHEMIAH'S JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM (<a href="/nehemiah/3-9.htm">Nehemiah 3:9-11</a>). On his way to Jerusalem, Nehemiah would pass through the provinces of various Persian satraps and governors. To those beyond the Euphrates he carried letters, which he took care to deliver, though by doing so he aroused the hostility of San-ballat. Being accompanied by an escort of Persian soldiers, he experienced neither difficulty nor danger by the way, but effected his journey in about three months. <a href="/commentaries/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>And may I have a letter וְאִגֶּ֡רֶת (wə·’ig·ge·reṯ) Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_107.htm">Strong's 107: </a> An epistle to אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to Asaph, אָסָף֩ (’ā·sāp̄) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_623.htm">Strong's 623: </a> Asaph -- 'gatherer', the name of several Israelites keeper שֹׁמֵ֨ר (šō·mêr) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to of the king’s אֲשֶׁ֣ר (’ă·šer) Pronoun - relative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_834.htm">Strong's 834: </a> Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that forest, הַפַּרְדֵּ֜ס (hap·par·dês) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6508.htm">Strong's 6508: </a> A preserve, park so that אֲשֶׁ֣ר (’ă·šer) Pronoun - relative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_834.htm">Strong's 834: </a> Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that he will give יִתֶּן־ (yit·ten-) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5414.htm">Strong's 5414: </a> To give, put, set me לִ֣י (lî) Preposition | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> timber עֵצִ֡ים (‘ê·ṣîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6086.htm">Strong's 6086: </a> Tree, trees, wood to make beams לְ֠קָרוֹת (lə·qā·rō·wṯ) Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7136.htm">Strong's 7136: </a> To light upon, to bring about, to impose timbers for אֶת־ (’eṯ-) Direct object marker <a href="/hebrew/strongs_853.htm">Strong's 853: </a> Untranslatable mark of the accusative case the gates שַׁעֲרֵ֨י (ša·‘ă·rê) Noun - masculine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8179.htm">Strong's 8179: </a> An opening, door, gate of the citadel הַבִּירָ֤ה (hab·bî·rāh) Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1002.htm">Strong's 1002: </a> A castle, palace to the temple, לַבַּ֙יִת֙ (lab·ba·yiṯ) Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1004.htm">Strong's 1004: </a> A house for the city הָעִ֔יר (hā·‘îr) Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5892.htm">Strong's 5892: </a> Excitement wall, וּלְחוֹמַ֣ת (ū·lə·ḥō·w·maṯ) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2346.htm">Strong's 2346: </a> A wall of protection and for the house וְלַבַּ֖יִת (wə·lab·ba·yiṯ) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1004.htm">Strong's 1004: </a> A house I will occupy.” אָב֣וֹא (’ā·ḇō·w) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> To come in, come, go in, go And because the gracious הַטּוֹבָ֥ה (haṭ·ṭō·w·ḇāh) Article | Adjective - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2896.htm">Strong's 2896: </a> Pleasant, agreeable, good hand כְּיַד־ (kə·yaḏ-) Preposition-k | Noun - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3027.htm">Strong's 3027: </a> A hand of my God אֱלֹהַ֖י (’ĕ·lō·hay) Noun - masculine plural construct | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative was upon me, עָלָֽי׃ (‘ā·lāy) Preposition | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against the king הַמֶּ֔לֶךְ (ham·me·leḵ) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4428.htm">Strong's 4428: </a> A king granted וַיִּתֶּן־ (way·yit·ten-) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5414.htm">Strong's 5414: </a> To give, put, set my requests. לִ֣י (lî) Preposition | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/nehemiah/2-8.htm">Nehemiah 2:8 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/nehemiah/2-8.htm">OT History: Nehemiah 2:8 And a letter to Asaph the keeper (Neh Ne) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/nehemiah/2-7.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Nehemiah 2:7"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Nehemiah 2:7" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/nehemiah/2-9.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Nehemiah 2:9"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Nehemiah 2:9" /></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>