King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 13:10 Mean?

Nehemiah 13:10 in the King James Version says “And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the ...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.”

Nehemiah 13:10 · KJV

Context

8

And it grieved me sore: therefore I cast forth all the household stuff of Tobiah out of the chamber.

9

Then I commanded, and they cleansed the chambers: and thither brought I again the vessels of the house of God, with the meat offering and the frankincense.

10

And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.

11

Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place. place: Heb. standing

12

Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries. treasuries: or, storehouses

Read Nehemiah 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.

This verse within Nehemiah 13 addresses themes of reform, confronting compromise, vigilance, finishing well. Nehemiah's return from Persia reveals backsliding, requiring renewed reforms in areas previously addressed—showing constant vigilance's necessity. 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 does understanding your work as part of God's larger purposes transform your approach to daily responsibilities?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 13 words
וָאֵ֣דְעָ֔ה1 of 13

“And I perceived”

H3045

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

כִּֽי2 of 13
H3588

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

מְנָי֥וֹת3 of 13

“that the portions”

H4521

an allotment (by courtesy, law or providence)

הַלְוִיִּ֥ם4 of 13

“of the Levites”

H3881

a levite or descendant of levi

לֹ֣א5 of 13
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

נִתָּ֑נָה6 of 13

“had not been given”

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

וַיִּבְרְח֧וּ7 of 13

“were fled”

H1272

to bolt, i.e., figuratively, to flee suddenly

אִישׁ8 of 13

“every one”

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

לְשָׂדֵ֛הוּ9 of 13

“to his field”

H7704

a field (as flat)

הַלְוִיִּ֥ם10 of 13

“of the Levites”

H3881

a levite or descendant of levi

וְהַמְשֹֽׁרְרִ֖ים11 of 13

“and the singers”

H7891

to sing

עֹשֵׂ֥י12 of 13

“that did”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

הַמְּלָאכָֽה׃13 of 13

“the work”

H4399

properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

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 13:10 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 13:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 10:37Malachi 3:8Deuteronomy 12:19Numbers 35:21 Timothy 5:17-18Malachi 1:6-14

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