Old Testament
Nehemiah 11:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And in Jerusalem lived certain of the children of Judah and of the children of Benjamin. From the children of Judah: Athaiah son of Uzziah, son of Zechariah, son of Amariah, son of Shephatiah, son of Mahalaleel, from the children of Perez;
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And at Jerusalem dwelt certain of the children of Judah, and of the children of Benjamin. Of the children of Judah; Athaiah the son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalaleel, of the children of Perez;
What Nehemiah 11:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nehemiah 11:4, we learn about the people who settled in Jerusalem after its walls were rebuilt. This verse specifically mentions some descendants of Judah and Benjamin, two of the tribes of Israel. Athaiah, a descendant of Perez, is highlighted, showing the importance of lineage and heritage in the Jewish community. The mention of these names emphasizes the continuity of the Jewish people and their connection to their ancestors. It also reflects the organization of the community as they repopulated Jerusalem, which was crucial for restoring the city after the Babylonian exile. The focus on specific family lines indicates the significance of tribal identity and the roles these families played in the rebuilding of Jerusalem. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of community and belonging, as well as the value of remembering one's roots and history.
How to apply Nehemiah 11:4 to your life
Understanding our roots can strengthen our sense of community and belonging. Just as the people of Judah and Benjamin settled in Jerusalem, we can find ways to connect with our own heritage and contribute positively to our communities today.
Curated for this public verse page. Nehemiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Nehemiah
- Author
- Nehemiah, with Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The post-exilic Jewish community
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nehemiah 11:4 mean?
Nehemiah 11:4 describes the descendants of Judah and Benjamin who settled in Jerusalem after its walls were rebuilt. It highlights the importance of lineage and community as these families played a role in restoring the city.
What is the significance of Athaiah in Nehemiah 11:4?
Athaiah, mentioned in Nehemiah 11:4, is a descendant of Perez and represents the continuity of Jewish heritage. His inclusion emphasizes the importance of family lineage in the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
What does 'children of Judah' mean in Nehemiah 11:4?
'Children of Judah' refers to the descendants of the tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. In Nehemiah 11:4, it signifies the lineage of those who returned to Jerusalem to help rebuild the community.
How does Nehemiah 11:4 reflect community identity?
Nehemiah 11:4 reflects community identity by listing specific family names and lineages, showing how these groups contributed to the restoration of Jerusalem. It highlights the importance of belonging and heritage in rebuilding a community.
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