King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 13:29 Mean?

Nehemiah 13:29 in the King James Version says “Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood, and the covenant of the priesthood, and of the Levite...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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”

Nehemiah 13:29 · KJV

Context

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;

31

And for the wood offering, at times appointed, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, for good.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood, and the covenant of the priesthood, and of the Levites.

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 · 9 words
זָכְרָ֥ה1 of 9

“Remember”

H2142

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

לָהֶ֖ם2 of 9
H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

אֱלֹהָ֑י3 of 9

“them O my God”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

עַ֚ל4 of 9
H5921

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

גָּֽאֳלֵ֣י5 of 9

“because they have defiled”

H1352

profanation

הַכְּהֻנָּ֖ה6 of 9

“of the priesthood”

H3550

priesthood

וּבְרִ֥ית7 of 9

“and the covenant”

H1285

a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)

הַכְּהֻנָּ֖ה8 of 9

“of the priesthood”

H3550

priesthood

וְהַלְוִיִּֽם׃9 of 9

“and of the Levites”

H3881

a levite or descendant of levi

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 13:29 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 13:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 6:14Numbers 25:12-13Numbers 16:9-10Malachi 2:4-8Leviticus 21:1-72 Timothy 4:14

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