Nehemiah 2
Meaning of Nehemiah 2
Nehemiah chapter 2 of The Bible mainly experiences and actions undertaken by Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the king of Persia, whom God puts in a position to assist in the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
The chapter begins with Nehemiah serving wine to King Artaxerxes. Nehemiah appears very sad in front of the king; this was not usual because people were expected to maintain a content demeanor in the king’s presence. However, instead of being reprimanded, the king asks Nehemiah why he is sad.
Nehemiah expresses his concern for the city of Jerusalem, his ancestral home, which lies ruinous and desolate after being destroyed by the Babylonians. He takes the opportunity to ask the king for favor to return to Judah, to rebuild its wall, and the king graciously agrees.
King Artaxerxes goes beyond just approving Nehemiah’s request. He gives Nehemiah letters to ensure his safe passage to Judah and orders to allow Nehemiah to take timber from the king’s forest for the gates and wall of the city, and for his own house.
Nehemiah faces opposition from Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite who were unhappy and greatly disturbed that someone had come to seek the welfare of the Children of Israel.
Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem and inspects the wall. He doesn’t tell the Jews, priests, nobles, officials, or others doing the work what his intentions are right away. Once he has a plan in place, he presents it to the people saying that theyshould rebuild the wall of Jerusalem to end their disgrace. He tells them about how the gracious hand of his God had favored him, and about his conversation with the king.
Inspired by Nehemiah’s confidence and faith in God’s support, the people agree to start the work immediately.
The chapter concludes with opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab who mock and ridicule them. Nehemiah answers them by stating that God will make their task successful and that they, as outsiders, have no share in Jerusalem.
In summary, the chapter talks about how Nehemiah, with the favor of King Artaxerxes and a firm trust in God, initiates the rebuilding of the city wall of Jerusalem amidst various critics and opposition.
Nehemiah 2 kjv
The King James Version (KJV) of Nehemiah 2 describes the story of Nehemiah, who was cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia. Reading it chapter by chapter, here’s the context:
Nehemiah 2 begins with Nehemiah feeling sorrowful because he has heard about the dilapidated state of Jerusalem, his homeland. Noticing his sadness, King Artaxerxes asks him what’s wrong, and Nehemiah explains his concern for Jerusalem, which is in ruins after the Babylonian conquest.
Moved by Nehemiah’s grief, the king asks what he can do to help. Nehemiah prays to God and then asks the king for safe passage to Judah so that he may rebuild the city.
After Nehemiah had received letters from the king granting him safe passage and access to resources for the rebuilding, he travels to Jerusalem. After his arrival, he inspects the city wall and antagonizes local governors, who oppose his plan, telling them that God is supporting his project and no one else has any share or historical claim to Jerusalem.
Thus, Nehemiah 2 talks about how Nehemiah gains favor with the Persian King, Artaxerxes, and is granted permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild it. The chapter ends on a note of opposition that Nehemiah faces, highlighting that his task will not be easy but his faith and determination will guide him.
Nehemiah 2 nkjv
Nehemiah 2 is a chapter from the New Testament of The Bible.
In this chapter, Nehemiah, a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, expresses his sorrow about the state of his ancestral city, Jerusalem, which lies in ruins. The king notices Nehemiah’s sadness and asks him about it, a thing unusual as cupbearers should always appear happy in the king’s presence to ensure a positive environment.
Nehemiah explains that Jerusalem, the city where his ancestors are buried is in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire. Moved by Nehemiah’s devotion and appeal, the king grants him the permission to return to Jerusalem. The King not only gives Nehemiah permission to go, but also letters to ensure his safe passage and to secure timber for the rebuilding process. This is considered an act of divine favor, given that Nehemiah is not of royal lineage and was serving under a foreign king.
Nehemiah travels to Jerusalem and after three days, he secretly inspects the city’s walls. After discovering the true extent of the damage, he reveals his plan to the local residents, inspiring them with the words “Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach”. Despite some opposition from surrounding officials, the people commit to rebuilding the wall.
This chapter highlights Nehemiah’s leadership and courage by being straightforward with the king and taking a proactive role in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls. His faith in divine intervention is shown through his prayer and subsequent action.
Nehemiah 2 niv
Nehemiah chapter 2 in the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible tells about the actions of Nehemiah, a Jewish cupbearer for the king of Persia, who was concerned about the state of his homeland, Jerusalem, then a province in the Persian Empire.
The chapter starts with Nehemiah serving King Artaxerxes wine. Seeing Nehemiah’s sadness, the king asks about the cause of his grief. Nehemiah is afraid but expresses his wish to the king for the removal of the desolation of Jerusalem, his natal city.
Artaxerxes, surprisingly, supports him and provides letters of safe passage and resources. Nehemiah is even appointed as governor to oversee the works. The king issues letters to the governors of the provinces on the way to Jerusalem, stating Nehemiah’s mission and grants permission to use the king’s forest to obtain wood.
Later, Nehemiah examines the city walls, facing criticism and opposition from some leaders, but he reminds them of God’s support and the king’s authorization. Nehemiah encourages the Jews to start rebuilding.
This chapter sets the stage for the rest of the Book of Nehemiah by showing his concern for his people and homeland, his courage to take action and, in doing so, setting a strong example of leadership by inspiring others to work for their common good.
What is Nehemiah 2 all about?
Nehemiah 2 is a chapter from the Book of Nehemiah in the Bible, found in the Old Testament. This chapter details Nehemiah’s request to King Artaxerxes to return to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls and gates after they were destroyed during the Babylonian conquest.
The chapter begins with Nehemiah serving King Artaxerxes as his cupbearer. Despite trying to hide his sadness, the King notices Nehemiah’s downcast face. When questioned, Nehemiah explains it is because Jerusalem, the city of his ancestors, lies in ruins. Moved by Nehemiah’s anguish, the King grants him permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city.
Provided with letters from the King to ensure his safe passage and supplies for his mission, Nehemiah travels to Jerusalem. After staying in Jerusalem for three days, he inspects the city’s broken walls and gates during the night to avoid attracting unwanted attention. He doesn’t initially reveal his intentions to the local officials, so as to not provoke opposition prematurely.
Revealing his plans to the city officials, Nehemiah rallies the people of Jerusalem to rebuild the city’s walls. Despite facing opposition from local governors, Nehemiah and the people remain determined to rebuild Jerusalem.
Thus, this chapter marks the beginning of Nehemiah’s mission to rebuild Jerusalem, a foundational story of perseverance, leadership, and faith in God.
What does Nehemiah 2 teaches?
Nehemiah 2 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible that conveys several valuable teachings. Nehemiah, the protagonist, serves as the king’s cupbearer. Here are some key life lessons we can take from this chapter:
1. Prayer: Nehemiah consistently turned to prayer when he faced decisions or challenges, demonstrating the importance of spiritual dependence.
2. Active Faith: Even though Nehemiah prayed, he did not just sit back and wait for things to happen. He exhibited an active faith, taking chances when opportunities presented themselves.
3. Serving Despite Distress: Despite knowing that it might risk his life, Nehemiah wore his sadness on his face in the presence of the king. His willingness to serve despite his personal distress teaches a lesson on loyalty, duty, and service.
4. Dependence on God: Nehemiah attributed all his successes to God. This importance of depending on God’s guidance is a crucial teaching.
5. Courage: Nehemiah asked the king for permission to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the city walls. It was a huge request, but he had the courage to ask for it, showing his deep concern for his people and homeland.
6. Leadership: Once given permission by the king, Nehemiah took on the role of a leader and mobilized resources and people to start the massive task of rebuilding Jerusalem.
In short, Nehemiah 2 teaches lessons about prayer, faith in action, courageousness, service, dependence on God, and leadership.
A Sermon on Nehemiah 2
Nehemiah 2 is a chapter of the Bible in the Old Testament. This chapter tells the story of Nehemiah, who was the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia. He’s deeply troubled by the news that his ancestral city, Jerusalem, is in ruins with its gates burned down. Nehemiah got permission from the king to go back to Judah to rebuild Jerusalem.
A sermon on Nehemiah 2 might focus on several key themes:
1. Prayer: Before Nehemiah approached the king with his request, he prayed to God. This could reinforce the importance of communication with God before undertaking any significant task or decision.
2. Courage: Despite his position as a slave in a foreign land, Nehemiah gathered the courage to speak to the king about his worries for his homeland. This part could be used to discuss the courage which is required to step out of his comfort zone or speak up in the face of authority.
3. God’s Will and Provision: The king not only gives Nehemiah permission to leave but also provides the supplies he needs to rebuild the city. This section could underscore the belief in God’s providence and the idea that God’s will can be accomplished even in seemingly impossible circumstances.
4. Leadership and Service: Nehemiah’s willingness to leave his relative comfort and return to Jerusalem to guide its rebuilding work is an example of servant leadership. This could encourage Christians to serve others and work for the common good.
5. Opposition: When Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem, he encounters opposition from Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite, but he doesn’t let that deter him from his mission. This could help address how Christians should handle adversity or opposition.
6. Action and Faith: Nehemiah didn’t just pray; he made a plan and put it into action. This could remind us that faith in God should not be separated from practical actions.
Remember, different preachers or theologians might see different meaning or draw various lessons from this chapter depending upon their tradition or interpretative lens.
Key people in Nehemiah 2
In Nehemiah 2, the key people mentioned are:
1. Nehemiah: He is the central figure of the Book of Nehemiah. In this chapter, it is Nehemiah who requests permission from King Artaxerxes to go to Jerusalem and rebuild its walls. He is appointed the governor of the province by the King and is given the necessary resources to complete the rebuilding. Moreso, Nehemiah inspects and confirms the devastating status of Jerusalem’s walls and gates.
2. King Artaxerxes: King Artaxerxes is the ruler of the Persian Empire. He grants permission to Nehemiah to leave for Jerusalem to rebuild the wall. He also provides him with the necessary letters and resources required for the work.
3. Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite Servant: These two are officials who are unhappy with the idea of Jerusalem being rebuilt. They mock and ridicule Nehemiah’s efforts, indicating opposition Nehemiah will face throughout the process.
4. The Jewish Officials: When Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem, he secretly examines the walls for three days, then calls the Jewish officials, priests, nobles, and the rest of the people, and encourages them to begin the rebuilding work. These people involved in rebuilding represent the community unity.
These key figures build the narrative in Nehemiah 2 and set the stage for the challenges and achievements in the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
Real world examples on Nehemiah 2
Nehemiah 2 documents Nehemiah’s request to King Artaxerxes to return and rebuild Jerusalem, and charts how Nehemiah overcame adversity in these efforts. The principles illuminated in these passages could provide real world examples such as:
1. Receiving favor from those in power: Nehemiah found favor in King Artaxerxes’ sight, which led to the king granting him permission to rebuild Jerusalem. This could be likened to a real-world scenario where an employee might receive support from a superior to kick-start a pet project, provided the employee can articulate the value and need of the project effectively.
2. Planning: Nehemiah carefully planned for his journey and the rebuilding of Jerusalem, even to the extent of surveying the walls at night to determine the extent of the damage. This correlates with any real-world project management situation where thorough planning is crucial in order to foresee challenges and be prepared for them.
3. Leadership Skills: Nehemiah demonstrated leadership qualities by mobilizing the Jews to rebuild the walls of their city despite opposition. Similarly, in a real life scenario, a good leader needs to motivate their team towards a common goal whilst addressing any opposition or challenges.
4. Dealing with Opposition: Nehemiah was faced with opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah, but he continued to motivate his people and remained focused. This can be applicable in real-world situations where people face opposition or criticism when executing a project, and need to stay strong and remain focused to carry out their vision.
5. The power of Vision: Nehemiah had a clear vision that he was determined to fulfill. He effectively communicated this vision to his team and worked diligently towards it. Like Nehemiah, strong leaders today must have a clear vision, the ability to communicate it, and the strength to persist through obstacles.
Remember, the context and content of Nehemiah 2 is closely tied to faith and religion, particularly with respect to Jewish history and Christian teachings. As such, how it’s interpreted or applied may depend on these elements.
Brief Explanation of Nehemiah 2
Nehemiah 2 is a chapter in the Bible’s Old Testament, where Nehemiah, who was a cupbearer to the King Artaxerxes of Persia, requests the king to allow him to return to Jerusalem and rebuild it, as it was in distress and its gates had been burnt down.
The king grants Nehemiah his request, giving him letters for safe passage and supply of building materials. When Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem, he inspects the city walls quietly at night to assess the damage. After this, he encourages the people of Jerusalem to rebuild the city walls. This intention, however, is opposed by some non-Jews living in the vicinity of Jerusalem.
In essence, Nehemiah 2 discusses Nehemiah’s mission to reconstruct Jerusalem and the first signs of opposition he faces. This chapter sets the stage for the primary work of Nehemiah in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls and the opposition he and others faced throughout the task.
Frequently asked questions for Nehemiah 2
1. Who is Nehemiah and what role does he play in chapter 2?
Nehemiah was the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. In Chapter 2 of the book of Nehemiah, he asks the king for permission to go to Jerusalem to rebuild its ruined walls, after hearing of its desolate condition.
2. What is the significant event in Nehemiah 2?
The significant event is King Artaxerxes granting permission to Nehemiah to go rebuild the city of Jerusalem, despite it being a strategical risk for the king. The promises made to Nehemiah meant the protection and resources of Persia were behind him.
3. What does Nehemiah’s prayer in Nehemiah 2 reveal about his character?
Nehemiah’s prayer shows his great faith in God and his deep concern for the people of Jerusalem. He is willing to risk his position in the palace and his life for the welfare of his people, revealing his humble, selfless, and brave character.
4. Who are Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant, mentioned in Nehemiah 2?
Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant are officials who were displeased by Nehemiah’s plans to rebuild Jerusalem. Both of them were adversaries of Nehemiah and they tried to oppose and discourage the project.
5. What inspires Nehemiah to take the journey to Jerusalem in setting its walls?
He was inspired by his deep faith in God and his patriotism towards his homeland. He felt a personal concern and responsibility upon hearing Jerusalem’s poor condition.
6. What happens when Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem?
Upon arrival, Nehemiah inspected the city secretly at night. He evaluated the extent of damage and made a plan to rebuild the city walls.
7. Why do some scholars refer to Nehemiah 2 as a turning point for the Jews?
This is because Nehemiah’s resolve to rebuild Jerusalem sparked a renewed hope among the Jewish people. Not only does it symbolize the physical recovery of the city, but also the restoration and resurgence of Jewish faith and identity.
8. How does King Artaxerxes help Nehemiah in his mission?
King Artaxerxes not only grants Nehemiah permission to journey to Jerusalem, but also provides him with letters to ensure safe passage and support from the Royal Park for timber.
Possible References for Nehemiah 2
Nehemiah 2 focuses on logical segments of the story about Nehemiah and his mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Here are some possible references or themes in Nehemiah 2:
1. Nehemiah’s Grief and Planning (Nehemiah 2: 1-4): The story begins by stating that Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king. Noticing Nehemiah’s sad countenance, the king asked Nehemiah why he looked so. Nehemiah expressed his deep concern for the people and city of Jerusalem, which was in ruins.
2. Nehemiah’s Prayer (Nehemiah 2: 4): Before Nehemiah replied to the king about his sadness, he prayed to the God of heaven showing his deep faith and trust in God.
3. King Artaxerxes’ Favor (Nehemiah 2: 5-8): Nehemiah finds favor with King Artaxerxes who grants him permission to go to Jerusalem and provides him with needed resources for the journey and the project of rebuilding the city walls.
4. Opposition (Nehemiah 2: 10, 19-20): When Nehemiah reaches Jerusalem, his mission is met with opposition by local rulers (Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite). But Nehemiah remains firm and declares that the God of heaven will grant them success.
5. Nehemiah’s Nighttime Inspection of the Walls (Nehemiah 2: 12-15): Nehemiah inspects the broken down walls and gates of Jerusalem. This inspection would have been key to formulating his rebuilding plan.
6. Nehemiah’s Call to Rebuild the Walls (Nehemiah 2: 17-18): Nehemiah tells the people of Jerusalem about his divine mission to rebuild the city’s walls which they accept with the words, “Let us start rebuilding.”
Each verse in Nehemiah 2 corresponds to a different part of this story, and can be referenced according to the theme it communicates.
Conclusion on Nehemiah 2
Nehemiah 2 is part of the Old Testament in the Bible. In this chapter, Nehemiah, an Israelite who serves as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, receives permission from the king to go to Jerusalem and rebuild its walls, which had been destroyed during the Babylonian captivity.
The conclusion of Nehemiah 2 centers on Nehemiah’s arrival in Jerusalem and his initial inspection of the damaged walls. Despite facing opposition from local leaders like Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab, who mock the efforts and accuse Nehemiah of rebellion against the king, Nehemiah responds with faith in God, asserting that God will give them success for the good work they are about to do.
He then undertakes a secret inspection of the walls at night to understand the extent of the damage and formulate a plan for reconstruction. Upon completing the inspection, Nehemiah reveals his plan to the Jewish officials and people, who express their support by saying, “Let us rise up and build.”
Thus, they prepare to rebuild their city, demonstrating their determination and unity. So, the conclusion of Nehemiah 2 can be distilled into the themes of courageous leadership, faith in God, unity of the Israelite community, and opposition from others.