King James Version
What Does Nehemiah 13:4 Mean?
“And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, was allied unto Tobiah: having: Heb. being set over”
Context
2
Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing.
3
Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel all the mixed multitude.
4
And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, was allied unto Tobiah: having: Heb. being set over
5
And he had prepared for him a great chamber, where aforetime they laid the meat offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the corn, the new wine, and the oil, which was commanded to be given to the Levites, and the singers, and the porters; and the offerings of the priests. which: Heb. the commandment of the Levites
6
But in all this time was not I at Jerusalem: for in the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon came I unto the king, and after certain days obtained I leave of the king: after: Heb. at the end of days obtained: or, I earnestly requested
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4-9) The scandal of the high priest.
(4) **Eliashib the priest, having the oversight.**—Probably the high priest of Nehemiah 3:1, whose office alone would not have given him control over *“*the chamber:” that is, the series of chambers running round three walls of the Temple. He “was allied unto Tobiah,” but in what way is not stated.
**Before this.**—That is, before the return of Nehemiah; indeed, there is a suspicious absence of Eliashib’s name throughout the high religious festivities of the preceding chapters.
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 13:4 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 13:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge