King James Version
What Does Nehemiah 11:16 Mean?
“And Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chief of the Levites, had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God. had: Heb. were over”
Context
14
And their brethren, mighty men of valour, an hundred twenty and eight: and their overseer was Zabdiel, the son of one of the great men. the son: or, the son of Haggedolim
15
Also of the Levites: Shemaiah the son of Hashub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Bunni;
16
And Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chief of the Levites, had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God. had: Heb. were over
17
And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, was the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer: and Bakbukiah the second among his brethren, and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.
18
All the Levites in the holy city were two hundred fourscore and four.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **Outward business.**—This is a remarkable specification of the functions of the Lévites, parallel with the “valour” of the priests just before. The preceding chapter explains the “outward business.”
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 11:16 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 11:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge