King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 13:12 Mean?

Nehemiah 13:12 in the King James Version says “Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries. treasuries: or, storehous...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Nehemiah 13:12 · KJV

Context

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

13

And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them was Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office was to distribute unto their brethren. treasuries: or, storehouses next: Heb. at their hand their office: Heb. it was upon them

14

Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof. good: Heb. kindnesses offices: or, observations

Read Nehemiah 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries.

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 can the principles demonstrated in this passage inform your response to current challenges in your life or church?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְכָל1 of 8
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

יְהוּדָ֗ה2 of 8

“all Judah”

H3063

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

הֵבִ֜יאוּ3 of 8

“Then brought”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

מַעְשַׂ֧ר4 of 8

“the tithe”

H4643

a tenth; especially a tithe

הַדָּגָ֛ן5 of 8

“of the corn”

H1715

properly, increase, i.e., grain

וְהַתִּיר֥וֹשׁ6 of 8

“and the new wine”

H8492

must or fresh grape-juice (as just squeezed out); by implication (rarely) fermented wine

וְהַיִּצְהָ֖ר7 of 8

“and the oil”

H3323

oil (as producing light); figuratively, anointing

לָאֽוֹצָרֽוֹת׃8 of 8

“unto the treasuries”

H214

a depository

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 13:12 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 13:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 10:37-39Nehemiah 12:44Malachi 3:10Deuteronomy 14:22Leviticus 27:30Numbers 18:20-26

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