King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 11:23 Mean?

Nehemiah 11:23 in the King James Version says “For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for every day. ...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for every day. a certain: or, a sure ordinance”

Nehemiah 11:23 · KJV

Context

21

But the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel: and Ziha and Gispa were over the Nethinims. Ophel: or, the tower

22

The overseer also of the Levites at Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Micha. Of the sons of Asaph, the singers were over the business of the house of God.

23

For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for every day. a certain: or, a sure ordinance

24

And Pethahiah the son of Meshezabeel, of the children of Zerah the son of Judah, was at the king's hand in all matters concerning the people. Zerah: or, Zarah

25

And for the villages, with their fields, some of the children of Judah dwelt at Kirjatharba, and in the villages thereof, and at Dibon, and in the villages thereof, and at Jekabzeel, and in the villages thereof,

Read Nehemiah 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for every day.

This verse within Nehemiah 11 addresses themes of sacrifice, community building, strategic living. Repopulating Jerusalem required sacrifice—willingness to leave comfortable situations to strengthen the covenant community. 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.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Nehemiah's account occurs during Persian imperial dominance (539-331 BC), specifically 445-433 BC under Artaxerxes I. Nehemiah's final reforms address recurring covenant violations, demonstrating the ongoing challenge of maintaining spiritual commitment across generations. 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 · 10 words
כִּֽי1 of 10
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מִצְוַ֥ת2 of 10

“commandment”

H4687

a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

הַמֶּ֖לֶךְ3 of 10

“For it was the king's”

H4428

a king

עֲלֵיהֶ֑ם4 of 10
H5921

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

וַֽאֲמָנָ֥ה5 of 10

“concerning them that a certain portion”

H548

something fixed, i.e., a covenant. an allowance

עַל6 of 10
H5921

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

הַמְשֹֽׁרְרִ֖ים7 of 10

“should be for the singers”

H7891

to sing

דְּבַר8 of 10

“due”

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

בְּיוֹמֽוֹ׃9 of 10

“for every day”

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

בְּיוֹמֽוֹ׃10 of 10

“for every day”

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

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 11:23 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 11:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 12:471 Chronicles 9:33Ezra 6:8-9Ezra 7:20-24

Test Your Knowledge

Nehemiah 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNehemiah Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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