King James Version

What Does Nehemiah 7:59 Mean?

Nehemiah 7:59 in the King James Version says “The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Amon. Amon: or,...” — study this verse from Nehemiah chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Amon. Amon: or, Ami”

Nehemiah 7:59 · KJV

Context

57

The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children of Perida,

58

The children of Jaala, the children of Darkon, the children of Giddel,

59

The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Amon. Amon: or, Ami

60

All the Nethinims, and the children of Solomon's servants, were three hundred ninety and two.

61

And these were they which went up also from Telmelah, Telharesha, Cherub, Addon, and Immer: but they could not shew their father's house, nor their seed, whether they were of Israel. seed: or, pedigree

Read Nehemiah 7 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Amon.

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 7:59 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 · 9 words
בְּנֵ֥י1 of 9

“The children”

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

שְׁפַטְיָ֣ה2 of 9

“of Shephatiah”

H8203

shephatjah, the name of ten israelites

בְּנֵ֥י3 of 9

“The children”

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

חַטִּ֗יל4 of 9

“of Hattil”

H2411

chattil, one of 'solomon's servants'

בְּנֵ֥י5 of 9

“The children”

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

הַצְּבָיִ֖ים6 of 9

“of Pochereth of Zebaim”

H6380

pokereth-tsebajim, one of the 'servants of solomon'

הַצְּבָיִ֖ים7 of 9

“of Pochereth of Zebaim”

H6380

pokereth-tsebajim, one of the 'servants of solomon'

בְּנֵ֥י8 of 9

“The children”

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

אָמֽוֹן׃9 of 9

“of Amon”

H526

amon, the name of three 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 7:59 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 7:59 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezra 2:57

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