King James Version
What Does Nehemiah 12:36 Mean?
“And his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarael, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man of God, and Ezra the scribe before them.”
Context
34
Judah, and Benjamin, and Shemaiah, and Jeremiah,
35
And certain of the priests' sons with trumpets; namely, Zechariah the son of Jonathan, the son of Shemaiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Michaiah, the son of Zaccur, the son of Asaph:
36
And his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarael, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man of God, and Ezra the scribe before them.
37
And at the fountain gate, which was over against them, they went up by the stairs of the city of David, at the going up of the wall, above the house of David, even unto the water gate eastward.
38
And the other company of them that gave thanks went over against them, and I after them, and the half of the people upon the wall, from beyond the tower of the furnaces even unto the broad wall;
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(36) **With the musical instruments of David the man of God.**—No part of the service deviated from sacred precedents (comp. Nehemiah 12:27).
**Ezra the scribe before them.**—Between the singers and the princes came he who was the greatest in dignity, though the second in office.
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 12:36 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 12:36
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge