King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 3:2 Mean?

Nehemiah 3:2 in the King James Version says “And next unto him builded the men of Jericho. And next to them builded Zaccur the son of Imri. next unto: Heb. at his ha...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And next unto him builded the men of Jericho. And next to them builded Zaccur the son of Imri. next unto: Heb. at his hand”

Nehemiah 3:2 · KJV

Context

1

Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and they builded the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananeel.

2

And next unto him builded the men of Jericho. And next to them builded Zaccur the son of Imri. next unto: Heb. at his hand

3

But the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build, who also laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.

4

And next unto them repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah, the son of Koz. And next unto them repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah, the son of Meshezabeel. And next unto them repaired Zadok the son of Baana.

Read Nehemiah 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And next unto him builded the men of Jericho. And next to them builded Zaccur the son of Imri.

This verse within Nehemiah 3 addresses themes of community, cooperation, diligence, stewardship. The detailed listing of builders demonstrates organized community effort where each person contributes according to ability and opportunity. The construction work (banah, בָּנָה) symbolizes restoring what sin and judgment destroyed. 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.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Nehemiah's account occurs during Persian imperial dominance (539-331 BC), specifically 445-433 BC under Artaxerxes I. The 52-day wall completion represents remarkable achievement given opposition and limited resources. Excavations have confirmed portions of Nehemiah's wall and various gates mentioned in the text. 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 Nehemiah 3:2 deepen your understanding of God's character and His work in human history?
  2. What specific contribution can you make to building up Christ's church in your local community?
  3. How does understanding your work as part of God's larger purposes transform your approach to daily responsibilities?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וְעַל1 of 11
H5921

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

יָד֣וֹ2 of 11

“And next unto him”

H3027

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

בָנָ֔ה3 of 11

“And next to them builded”

H1129

to build (literally and figuratively)

אַנְשֵׁ֣י4 of 11

“the men”

H582

properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)

יְרֵח֑וֹ5 of 11

“of Jericho”

H3405

jericho or jerecho, a place in palestine

וְעַל6 of 11
H5921

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

יָד֣וֹ7 of 11

“And next unto him”

H3027

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

בָנָ֔ה8 of 11

“And next to them builded”

H1129

to build (literally and figuratively)

זַכּ֖וּר9 of 11

“Zaccur”

H2139

zakkur, the name of seven israelites

בֶּן10 of 11

“the son”

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

אִמְרִֽי׃11 of 11

“of Imri”

H566

imri, the name of two israelites

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 3:2 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 3:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Nehemiah 7:36Ezra 2:34Nehemiah 10:12

Places in This Verse

Jericho 1Settlement · Modern: Tell es Sultan · 31.87°N, 35.44°E63 verses across 13 books
View all places in Nehemiah 3 →

Test Your Knowledge

Nehemiah 3 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNehemiah Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Nehemiah 3 with CommentaryAll Nehemiah ChaptersComplete Nehemiah QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes