King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 5:3 Mean?

Nehemiah 5:3 in the King James Version says “Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of t...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth.”

Nehemiah 5:3 · KJV

Context

1

And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews.

2

For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many: therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live.

3

Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth.

4

There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards.

5

Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought unto bondage already: neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and vineyards.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth.

This verse within Nehemiah 5 addresses themes of justice, integrity, selfless leadership, economic reform. Internal crisis threatens to destroy what external opposition could not—economic exploitation requiring bold reforming leadership. 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. 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 5:3 deepen your understanding of God's character and His work in human history?
  2. What specific action or attitude change does this verse call you to make in your walk with God?
  3. How can the principles demonstrated in this passage inform your response to current challenges in your life or church?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
וְיֵשׁ֙1 of 11

“Some also there were”

H3426

there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)

אֲשֶׁ֣ר2 of 11
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

אֹֽמְרִ֔ים3 of 11

“that said”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

שְׂדֹתֵ֛ינוּ4 of 11

“our lands”

H7704

a field (as flat)

וּכְרָמֵ֥ינוּ5 of 11

“vineyards”

H3754

a garden or vineyard

וּבָתֵּ֖ינוּ6 of 11

“and houses”

H1004

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

אֲנַ֣חְנוּ7 of 11
H587

we

עֹֽרְבִ֑ים8 of 11

“We have mortgaged”

H6148

to braid, i.e., intermix; technically, to traffic (as if by barter); also or give to be security (as a kind of exchange)

וְנִקְחָ֥ה9 of 11

“that we might buy”

H3947

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

דָגָ֖ן10 of 11

“corn”

H1715

properly, increase, i.e., grain

בָּֽרָעָֽב׃11 of 11

“because of the dearth”

H7458

hunger (more or less extensive)

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 5:3 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 5:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 25:35-39Malachi 3:8-11Deuteronomy 15:7Genesis 47:15-25

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