Old Testament
Nehemiah 13:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I contended with them and cursed them and struck some of them and pulled out their hair, and made them swear by God, saying, "You shall not give your daughters to their sons, nor take their daughters for your sons or for yourselves."
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And I contended with them, and cursed them, and smote certain of them, and plucked off their hair, and made them swear by God, saying, Ye shall not give your daughters unto their sons, nor take their daughters unto your sons, or for yourselves.
What Nehemiah 13:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Nehemiah confronts the people of Israel for intermarrying with foreign nations, which was against God's commandments. His actions, including cursing and physically confronting some individuals, highlight his deep concern for maintaining the purity of the Israelite community. Nehemiah emphasizes the importance of not allowing their daughters to marry foreign men or taking foreign women for their sons. This was crucial to preserve their faith and identity as God's chosen people. Nehemiah's strong response reflects the seriousness of the situation and the need for the people to commit to following God's laws. His call for an oath signifies the importance of accountability in their relationships and community decisions, ensuring they remain faithful to their covenant with God.
How to apply Nehemiah 13:25 to your life
This verse teaches the importance of maintaining integrity in our relationships and being mindful of influences that may lead us away from our values. It encourages us to be proactive in protecting our community and ensuring that our choices align with our beliefs.
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 13:25 mean?
Nehemiah 13:25 describes Nehemiah confronting the Israelites for intermarrying with foreign nations, which violated God's commandments. His actions reflect his commitment to preserving the community's faith and identity.
Why does Nehemiah forbid intermarriage in Nehemiah 13:25?
Nehemiah forbids intermarriage to protect the Israelites from influences that could lead them away from their faith and values. This was crucial for maintaining their identity as God's chosen people.
What does the phrase 'made them swear by God' mean in Nehemiah 13:25?
The phrase 'made them swear by God' indicates that Nehemiah sought a formal commitment from the people to adhere to God's laws regarding marriage. It underscores the importance of accountability in their community decisions.
How can Nehemiah 13:25 be applied today?
Nehemiah 13:25 teaches the importance of integrity in relationships and being aware of influences that may compromise one's values. It encourages proactive measures to protect community beliefs and ensure alignment with personal convictions.
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