King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 13:4 Mean?

Nehemiah 13:4 in the King James Version says “And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, was allied unto Tobia...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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”

Nehemiah 13:4 · KJV

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

Read Nehemiah 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, was allied unto Tobiah:

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 · 10 words
וְלִפְנֵ֣י1 of 10

“And before”

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

מִזֶּ֔ה2 of 10
H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

אֶלְיָשִׁיב֙3 of 10

“this Eliashib”

H475

eljashib, the name of six israelites

הַכֹּהֵ֔ן4 of 10

“the priest”

H3548

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

נָת֖וּן5 of 10

“having the oversight”

H5414

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

בְּלִשְׁכַּ֣ת6 of 10

“of the chamber”

H3957

a room in a building (whether for storage, eating, or lodging)

בֵּית7 of 10

“of the house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

אֱלֹהֵ֑ינוּ8 of 10

“of our 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

קָר֖וֹב9 of 10

“was allied”

H7138

near (in place, kindred or time)

לְטֽוֹבִיָּֽה׃10 of 10

“unto Tobiah”

H2900

tobijah, the name of three israelites and of one samaritan

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 13:4 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 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 12:44Nehemiah 6:17-18Nehemiah 2:10Nehemiah 13:28Nehemiah 12:10

Test Your Knowledge

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