King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 11:36 Mean?

Nehemiah 11:36 in the King James Version says “And of the Levites were divisions in Judah, and in Benjamin.” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And of the Levites were divisions in Judah, and in Benjamin.”

Nehemiah 11:36 · KJV

Context

34

Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat,

35

Lod, and Ono, the valley of craftsmen .

36

And of the Levites were divisions in Judah, and in Benjamin.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And of the Levites were divisions in Judah, and in Benjamin.

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 · 5 words
וּמִן1 of 5
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַלְוִיִּ֔ם2 of 5

“And of the Levites”

H3881

a levite or descendant of levi

מַחְלְק֥וֹת3 of 5

“were divisions”

H4256

a section (of levites, people or soldiers)

יְהוּדָ֖ה4 of 5

“in Judah”

H3063

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

לְבִנְיָמִֽין׃5 of 5

“and in Benjamin”

H1144

binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

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 11:36 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 11:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Joshua 21:1-451 Chronicles 6:54-81Genesis 49:7

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