King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 10:1 Mean?

Nehemiah 10:1 in the King James Version says “Now those that sealed were, Nehemiah, the Tirshatha, the son of Hachaliah, and Zidkijah, those: Heb. at the sealings the...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Now those that sealed were, Nehemiah, the Tirshatha, the son of Hachaliah, and Zidkijah, those: Heb. at the sealings the Tirshatha: or, the governor”

Nehemiah 10:1 · KJV

Context

1

Now those that sealed were, Nehemiah, the Tirshatha, the son of Hachaliah, and Zidkijah, those: Heb. at the sealings the Tirshatha: or, the governor

2

Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah,

3

Pashur, Amariah, Malchijah,

Read Nehemiah 10 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Now those that sealed were, Nehemiah, the Tirshatha, the son of Hachaliah, and Zidkijah,

This verse within Nehemiah 10 addresses themes of covenant renewal, specific commitments, accountability. General confession leads to specific commitments regarding temple support, Sabbath observance, and separation from paganism. This passage demonstrates biblical principles applicable across both testaments—God's sovereignty combined with human responsibility, faith expressed through obedient action, and the necessity of both individual and corporate commitment to covenant faithfulness. Nehemiah models leadership that combines vision, prayer, courage, integrity, and perseverance amid sustained opposition.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Nehemiah's account occurs during Persian imperial dominance (539-331 BC), specifically 445-433 BC under Artaxerxes I. The spiritual reforms under Ezra and Nehemiah shaped Judaism for centuries, establishing Scripture's centrality and patterns of worship continuing into the intertestamental period and beyond. The Persian period was crucial transitional time when Jewish identity shifted from monarchical nationalism to Torah-centered covenantal community. Without political independence, the people's cohesion depended on shared scripture, temple worship, and covenant obedience. This established patterns persisting through the Second Temple period into New Testament times. Understanding this context illuminates Jesus's ministry among a people shaped by these reforms and challenges.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does regular engagement with Scripture transform understanding of God and His will for your life?
  2. What specific commitments do you need to make (or renew) regarding Bible reading, worship, and obedience?
  3. How can the principles demonstrated in this passage inform your response to current challenges in your life or church?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וְעַ֖ל1 of 7
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הַֽחֲתוּמִ֑ים2 of 7

“Now those that sealed”

H2856

to close up; especially to seal

נְחֶמְיָ֧ה3 of 7

“were Nehemiah”

H5166

nechemjah, the name of three israelites

הַתִּרְשָׁ֛תָא4 of 7

“the Tirshatha”

H8660

tirshatha, the title of a persian deputy or governor

בֶּן5 of 7

“the son”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

חֲכַלְיָ֖ה6 of 7

“of Hachaliah”

H2446

chakaljah, an israelite

וְצִדְקִיָּֽה׃7 of 7

“and Zidkijah”

H6667

tsidkijah, the name of six israelites

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Nehemiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Nehemiah 10:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Nehemiah 10:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 9:38Nehemiah 8:9Nehemiah 1:1Nehemiah 7:70Ezra 2:63

Test Your Knowledge

Nehemiah 10 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNehemiah Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Nehemiah 10 with CommentaryAll Nehemiah ChaptersComplete Nehemiah QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes