King James Version
What Does Nehemiah 5:10 Mean?
“I likewise, and my brethren, and my servants, might exact of them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury.”
Context
8
And I said unto them, We after our ability have redeemed our brethren the Jews, which were sold unto the heathen; and will ye even sell your brethren? or shall they be sold unto us? Then held they their peace, and found nothing to answer.
9
Also I said, It is not good that ye do: ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the heathen our enemies?
10
I likewise, and my brethren, and my servants, might exact of them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury.
11
Restore, I pray you, to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their oliveyards, and their houses, also the hundredth part of the money, and of the corn, the wine, and the oil, that ye exact of them.
12
Then said they, We will restore them, and will require nothing of them; so will we do as thou sayest. Then I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they should do according to this promise.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **Might exact.**—We *have lent them money and corn.* By his own example the governor pleads with them: not “let us leave off this usury,” but let us all and together “remit the loans.”
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 5:10 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 5:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge