Old Testament
Nehemiah 5:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Nehemiah 5:11, Nehemiah is addressing the wealthy leaders who have been exploiting the poor by charging them excessive interest and taking their property.
- Author
- Nehemiah, with Ezra
- Written
- Around 430 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The post-exilic Jewish community
I ask you to return to them today their fields, vineyards, olive groves, and homes, along with the hundredth part of the money, grain, wine, and oil that you have been charging them.
Restore, I pray you, to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their oliveyards, and their houses, also the hundredth part of the money, and of the corn, the wine, and the oil, that ye exact of them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nehemiah 5:11, Nehemiah is addressing the wealthy leaders who have been exploiting the poor by charging them excessive interest and taking their property. He urges them to return the lands, vineyards, olive groves, and homes that they have taken from the people. Additionally, he asks them to stop charging interest on loans and to return a portion of the money, grain, wine, and oil that they have unjustly demanded. This verse highlights the importance of fairness and justice in economic dealings, emphasizing that the community should support one another rather than take advantage of the vulnerable. Nehemiah's plea reflects a commitment to restoring dignity and stability to the lives of those who have suffered due to greed and exploitation. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility that those in power have to care for the less fortunate and to ensure that everyone has access to their basic needs.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Nehemiah 5:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own financial practices and relationships. Are we treating others fairly in our dealings? We should strive to support those in need and ensure that our actions promote justice and equity within our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Nehemiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nehemiah 5:11 mean?
Nehemiah 5:11 means that Nehemiah is calling on the wealthy leaders to return the property and resources they have taken from the poor, emphasizing the need for fairness and justice in their economic practices.
What is the meaning of restoration in Nehemiah 5:11?
Restoration in Nehemiah 5:11 refers to the act of returning the lands, vineyards, and homes to the people who lost them due to exploitation, highlighting the importance of correcting injustices.
How does Nehemiah 5:11 relate to economic fairness?
Nehemiah 5:11 relates to economic fairness by highlighting the need for equitable treatment in financial dealings, urging leaders to support rather than exploit vulnerable members of the community.
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