King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 2:13 Mean?

And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well , and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire.

Context

11

So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days.

12

And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem: neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon.

13

And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well , and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire.

14

Then I went on to the gate of the fountain, and to the king's pool: but there was no place for the beast that was under me to pass.

15

Then went I up in the night by the brook, and viewed the wall, and turned back, and entered by the gate of the valley, and so returned.

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(13) **The gate of the valley,** opening on Hinnom, to the south of the city. Nehemiah passed by “the dragon well,” nowhere else mentioned, and not now to be traced, and surveyed the ruins from the “dung port,” whence offal was taken to the valley of Hinnom.

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 2:13 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 2:13

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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