Old Testament
Nehemiah 13:27
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Shall we then listen to you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God by marrying foreign wives?
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Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God in marrying strange wives?
What Nehemiah 13:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nehemiah 13:27, the speaker is addressing a serious concern about the Israelites marrying foreign women, which was seen as a violation of their covenant with God. The act of marrying foreign wives was not just about relationships; it symbolized a turning away from God's commandments and a potential influence that could lead the people away from their faith. The speaker questions whether they should listen to those advocating for such marriages, emphasizing that it would be a great evil to disobey God in this way. This reflects the broader theme of maintaining spiritual purity and fidelity to God's laws, as the Israelites were called to be distinct from other nations. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of making choices that align with one's faith and the potential consequences of straying from God's guidance.
How to apply Nehemiah 13:27 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our relationships and influences. Are we aligning ourselves with values that reflect our faith? It’s important to choose relationships that support our spiritual journey and to be cautious of influences that may lead us away from our commitments to God.
Curated for this public verse page. Nehemiah Summary
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Keep studying Nehemiah 13:27
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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 13:27 say about marrying foreign wives?
Nehemiah 13:27 addresses the issue of Israelites marrying foreign women, which was viewed as a serious transgression against God's commandments. The speaker questions whether they should heed those advocating for such marriages, highlighting that it would be a great evil to disobey God. This reflects the importance of maintaining spiritual purity and fidelity to God's laws.
Why was marrying foreign wives considered a great evil?
Marrying foreign wives was seen as a great evil because it symbolized a departure from the covenant relationship the Israelites had with God. Such marriages could lead to the adoption of foreign customs and beliefs, potentially drawing the people away from their faith and obedience to God's commandments. This concern emphasizes the need for spiritual integrity and the dangers of compromising one's values.
How can Nehemiah 13:27 apply to modern relationships?
Nehemiah 13:27 encourages us to reflect on our relationships and the influences we allow in our lives. It prompts us to consider whether our relationships align with our faith and values. In a modern context, this means being mindful of the people we associate with and ensuring they support our spiritual journey rather than lead us away from our commitments to God.
What is the broader theme of Nehemiah 13:27?
The broader theme of Nehemiah 13:27 revolves around spiritual purity, faithfulness to God, and the importance of obedience to His laws. It underscores the need for the Israelites to remain distinct from other nations and to uphold their covenant with God. This theme serves as a reminder for believers today to prioritize their faith in all aspects of life, including relationships.
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