King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 13:28 Mean?

Nehemiah 13:28 in the King James Version says “And one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore ...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.”

Nehemiah 13:28 · KJV

Context

26

Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no king like him, who was beloved of his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did outlandish women cause to sin.

27

Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God in marrying strange wives?

28

And one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.

29

Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood, and the covenant of the priesthood, and of the Levites. because: Heb. for the defilings

30

Thus cleansed I them from all strangers, and appointed the wards of the priests and the Levites, every one in his business;

Read Nehemiah 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.

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 · 11 words
בֶּן1 of 11

“And one of the sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יֽוֹיָדָ֤ע2 of 11

“of Joiada”

H3111

jojada, the name of two israelites

בֶּן3 of 11

“And one of the sons”

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אֶלְיָשִׁיב֙4 of 11

“of Eliashib”

H475

eljashib, the name of six israelites

הַכֹּהֵ֣ן5 of 11

“priest”

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

הַגָּד֔וֹל6 of 11

“the high”

H1419

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

חָתָ֖ן7 of 11

“was son in law”

H2860

a relative by marriage (especially through the bride); figuratively, a circumcised child (as a species of religious espousal)

לְסַנְבַלַּ֣ט8 of 11

“to Sanballat”

H5571

sanballat, a persian satrap of samaria

הַחֹֽרֹנִ֑י9 of 11

“the Horonite”

H2772

a choronite or inhabitant of choronaim

וָֽאַבְרִיחֵ֖הוּ10 of 11

“therefore I chased”

H1272

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

מֵֽעָלָֽי׃11 of 11
H5921

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

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 13:28 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 13:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 2:19Nehemiah 2:10Nehemiah 6:17-19Nehemiah 12:10Nehemiah 3:1Nehemiah 12:22

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