Old Testament

Nehemiah 11:12

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Nehemiah 11:12, the verse highlights the number of individuals, specifically 822, who were involved in the work of the temple, referred to as 'the house.

Author: Nehemiah, with Ezra
Written: Around 430 BC
Genre: Historical narrative
Original Audience: The post-exilic Jewish community

CBTClear Bible Translation

And their brothers who did the work of the house were eight hundred twenty-two. And Adaiah son of Jeroham, son of Pelaliah, son of Amzi, son of Zechariah, son of Pashur, son of Malchiah,

KJVKing James Version

And their brethren that did the work of the house were eight hundred twenty and two: and Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pelaliah, the son of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchiah,

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Nehemiah 11:12, the verse highlights the number of individuals, specifically 822, who were involved in the work of the temple, referred to as 'the house.' This emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in rebuilding and maintaining the sacred space. The verse also lists the genealogy of Adaiah, showing his lineage and connection to previous generations. This lineage serves to establish a sense of identity and continuity among the people, linking them to their heritage and the responsibilities they carry. The mention of specific names and their familial ties underscores the significance of each individual’s contribution to the collective effort of restoring the temple and, by extension, their relationship with God. This verse illustrates how the work of the temple was not just a task but a communal effort that involved many, reflecting the unity and dedication of the people in their spiritual mission.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Nehemiah 11:12 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize the value of teamwork in our spiritual and community endeavors. Just as the people in Nehemiah's time worked together for a common goal, we too should engage with others, using our unique gifts to contribute to our communities and support one another in faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Nehemiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Nehemiah 11:12 say about the workers of the temple?

Nehemiah 11:12 states that there were 822 individuals who worked on the temple, referred to as 'the house.' This highlights the collective effort and dedication of the community in rebuilding and maintaining their sacred space.

Why is Adaiah's genealogy important in Nehemiah 11:12?

The genealogy of Adaiah in Nehemiah 11:12 serves to connect him to his ancestors, emphasizing the importance of heritage and identity among the people. It shows how individual contributions are part of a larger historical and spiritual narrative.

What can we learn about community from Nehemiah 11:12?

Nehemiah 11:12 illustrates the significance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving a common goal. It encourages us to engage with our communities, recognizing that each person's unique gifts contribute to a shared mission, especially in spiritual contexts.

How does Nehemiah 11:12 reflect spiritual responsibility?

The verse reflects spiritual responsibility by showing that the work of the temple was a communal effort. Each individual's contribution was vital, highlighting that maintaining one's faith and community requires active participation and dedication.

Book Summary

The Book of Nehemiah

Nehemiah 1: Nehemiah's Prayer

The book begins with the words of Nehemiah, the son of Hachaliah. In the month of Chislev, during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes' reign, Nehemiah is in the palace at Shushan when his brother Hanani and other men arrive from Judah. Nehemiah asks them about the Jewish remnant that has survived the exile and about the condition of Jerusalem. They report that the survivors in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.

Upon hearing this news, Nehemiah sits down, weeps, and mourns for several days. He fasts and prays to the God of heaven, addressing Him as the great and awesome God who keeps His covenant of love with those who love Him and obey His commands. He confesses the sins of the Israelites, including himself and his own family, acknowledging that they have acted corruptly and have not obeyed the commands, decrees, and laws given through Moses. He reminds God of His promise to scatter them if they are unfaithful but to gather them from the farthest lands if they return to Him and obey His commands. Nehemiah concludes his prayer by asking God to be attentive to his prayer and to grant him favor in the sight of the king, for he is the king's cupbearer. Nehemiah 2: Nehemiah Sent to Jerusalem In the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, Nehemiah is serving wine to the king. The king notices Nehemiah's sadness, as he had never appeared sad before. The king asks why he looks sad when he is not ill, concluding it must be a sadness of heart. Nehemiah is fearful but explains that he is sad because the city where his ancestors are buried lies in ruins with its gates destroyed by fire. The king asks what he wants, and after praying to the God of heaven, Nehemiah requests that the king send him to Judah to rebuild the city of his fathers. The king, with the queen sitting beside him, agrees and asks how long the journey will take and when he will return. Nehemiah sets a time. He also asks for letters to the governors of the province Beyond the River, to grant him safe passage, and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king's forest, to supply him with timber for the gates of the citadel by the temple, for the city wall, and for the house he will occupy. The king grants his requests because the gracious hand of God is upon him. When Nehemiah arrives and delivers the letters, the governors are accompanied by army officers and horsemen sent by the king. However, when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official hear of his arrival, they are very displeased that someone has come to promote the welfare of the Israelites. After three days in Jerusalem, Nehemiah secretly inspects the city walls by night, finding them in ruins. He then reveals his plan to the Jewish officials, priests, and nobles, telling them of God's gracious hand upon him and the king's support. They are encouraged and reply, "Let us rise up and build." But Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab mock and ridicule them, accusing them of rebelling against the king. Nehemiah replies that the God of heaven will give them success and that they, His servants, will start rebuilding, but that his opponents have no share, right, or claim in Jerusalem.

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