King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 7:31 Mean?

Nehemiah 7:31 in the King James Version says “The men of Michmas, an hundred and twenty and two.” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The men of Michmas, an hundred and twenty and two.”

Nehemiah 7:31 · KJV

Context

29

The men of Kirjathjearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred forty and three. Kirjathjearim: or, Kirjatharim

30

The men of Ramah and Geba, six hundred twenty and one.

31

The men of Michmas, an hundred and twenty and two.

32

The men of Bethel and Ai, an hundred twenty and three.

33

The men of the other Nebo, fifty and two.

Read Nehemiah 7 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The men of Michmas, an hundred and twenty and two.

This verse within Nehemiah 7 addresses themes of organization, genealogy, remembrance, continuity. With physical security established, Nehemiah organizes administration and records genealogies, showing continuity with God's promises. 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 spiritual reforms under Ezra and Nehemiah shaped Judaism for centuries, establishing Scripture's centrality and patterns of worship continuing into the intertestamental period and beyond. 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 7:31 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 · 5 words
אַנְשֵׁ֣י1 of 5
H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

מִכְמָ֔ס2 of 5

“of Michmas”

H4363

mikmas or mikmash, a place in palestine

מֵאָ֖ה3 of 5

“an hundred”

H3967

a hundred; also as a multiplicative and a fraction

וְעֶשְׂרִ֥ים4 of 5

“and twenty”

H6242

twenty; also (ordinal) twentieth

וּשְׁנָֽיִם׃5 of 5

“and two”

H8147

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

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 7:31 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 7:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Samuel 13:5Ezra 2:27Isaiah 10:281 Samuel 13:23

Places in This Verse

MichmashSettlement · Modern: Mukhmas · 31.87°N, 35.28°E11 verses across 4 books
View all places in Nehemiah 7 →

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