Nehemiah 10:28

KJV

And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims, and all they that had separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding;

KJV (with Strong's)

And the rest {H7605} of the people {H5971}, the priests {H3548}, the Levites {H3881}, the porters {H7778}, the singers {H7891}, the Nethinims {H5411}, and all they that had separated {H914} themselves from the people {H5971} of the lands {H776} unto the law {H8451} of God {H430}, their wives {H802}, their sons {H1121}, and their daughters {H1323}, every one having knowledge {H3045}, and having understanding {H995};

Complete Jewish Bible

The rest of the people, the cohanim, the L'vi'im, the gatekeepers, the singers, the temple servants and all who had separated themselves from the peoples of the lands to the Torah of God, along with their wives, sons and daughters, everyone capable of knowing and understanding,

Berean Standard Bible

“The rest of the people—the priests, Levites, gatekeepers, singers, temple servants, and all who had separated themselves from the people of the land to obey the Law of God—along with their wives and all their sons and daughters who are able to understand,

American Standard Version

And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinim, and all they that had separated themselves from the peoples of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one that had knowledge, and understanding;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 10:28 provides a comprehensive account of the post-exilic Israelite community's widespread participation in the solemn covenant renewal. Following a period of national repentance and the public proclamation of God's Law, this verse meticulously details that the commitment to obey God's statutes extended far beyond the formally signed leaders. It encompassed "the rest of the people," including all categories of temple servants—priests, Levites, porters, singers, and Nethinims—and critically, all individuals who had intentionally separated themselves from the pagan influences of the surrounding lands. This profound dedication included their entire families, with every participant acting from a place of conscious knowledge and understanding, thereby underscoring the collective, informed, and inclusive nature of their renewed devotion to God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 10:28 is strategically positioned within the narrative of Israel's post-exilic restoration, forming a crucial bridge between the formal leadership's commitment and the broader community's embrace of the covenant. The preceding chapters chronicle significant spiritual events: [Nehemiah 8](/nehemiah/8 "Nehemiah 8 - The Public Reading of the Law") describes Ezra's public reading of the Law, which led to widespread understanding and weeping, followed by a joyous celebration of the Feast of Booths. [Nehemiah 9](/nehemiah/9 "Nehemiah 9 - A National Confession and Covenant") then records a profound national confession of sin, a historical recounting of God's faithfulness, and a solemn prayer culminating in a renewed covenant. [Nehemiah 10:1-27](/nehemiah/10 "Nehemiah 10 - The Sealing of the Covenant") lists the names of the princes, Levites, and priests who formally sealed this covenant with their signatures. Verse 28 serves as an essential expansion, demonstrating that this covenant was not merely an elite agreement but a comprehensive, community-wide commitment. It transitions from the formal signatories to the broader populace, emphasizing the voluntary and informed participation of every segment of society, setting the stage for the practical implications of the covenant outlined in the subsequent verses.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in Nehemiah unfold in the mid-5th century BC, during the Persian period, following the return of Jewish exiles from Babylon. The community in Jerusalem faced immense challenges: not only the physical reconstruction of the city walls but also the spiritual reconstruction of their identity as God's chosen people. A persistent and significant threat was assimilation into the surrounding pagan cultures, primarily through intermarriage with "people of the lands" (foreigners). This practice often led to idolatry and a dilution of Israel's distinct identity, a concern highlighted in earlier Mosaic Law (e.g., [Exodus 34:16](/exodus/34-16 "Exodus 34:16 - Warning Against Intermarriage")) and later addressed forcefully by Ezra and Nehemiah. The covenant renewal was thus a desperate and essential act to re-establish the nation's spiritual boundaries, reinforce their commitment to the Torah, and ensure their survival as a holy people set apart for God amidst a hostile cultural and religious landscape. Their separation was a deliberate act of preserving their unique heritage and faith.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 10:28 powerfully articulates several key themes central to the post-exilic restoration and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **inclusivity of commitment**, demonstrating that the covenant was not exclusive to the religious or civic elite but embraced all segments of the community, from priests to temple servants and their families. This underscores the corporate nature of Israel's relationship with God, where the entire community bears responsibility for covenant fidelity. Secondly, the phrase "separated themselves from the people of the lands" emphasizes the theme of **holiness and distinctiveness**, reflecting God's consistent call for His people to be set apart from the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations. This concept is foundational to the Mosaic covenant (cf. [Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy, for I Am Holy")) and remains a recurring motif throughout Scripture. Thirdly, the inclusion of "every one having knowledge, and having understanding" underscores the necessity of **informed and intentional obedience**. This was not a coerced or ignorant assent but a conscious decision rooted in comprehension of God's Law, aligning with the emphasis on teaching and understanding found in [Deuteronomy 6:7](/deuteronomy/6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:7 - Teach Your Children Diligently"), which mandates the diligent teaching of the Law to future generations. Finally, the mention of "their wives, their sons, and their daughters" emphasizes the **multi-generational nature of faith and covenant**, highlighting the importance of family unity in spiritual commitment and the transmission of faith across generations.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Nethinims (Hebrew, _Nâthîyn'_):** From H5411, meaning "one given, i.e. (in the plural only); the Nethinim, or Temple-servants (as given to that duty)." These individuals were temple servants, likely descendants of non-Israelites (such as the Gibeonites, as seen in [Joshua 9:27](/joshua/9-27 "Joshua 9:27 - Gibeonites Become Servants")) who were "given" or "dedicated" to assist the Levites in the sanctuary. Their inclusion in the covenant signifies the broad scope of participation, extending even to those of foreign origin who had fully integrated into the worship and service of the God of Israel. Their presence underscores the principle that commitment to God's Law was open to all who genuinely desired to separate themselves for Him.
* **separated themselves (Hebrew, _bâdal'_):** From H914, meaning "to divide (in variation senses literally or figuratively, separate, distinguish, differ, select, etc.)." This verb denotes a deliberate and active decision to detach from the customs, idolatry, and defilement of the surrounding Gentile nations. This act of separation was not merely physical but spiritual and moral, signifying a conscious commitment to adhere strictly to the Torah and maintain Israel's unique identity as God's chosen people. It reflects the core biblical concept of holiness, where God's people are called to be distinct from the world around them.
* **knowledge (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** From H3045, meaning "to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including observation, care, recognition; and causatively, instruction, designation, punishment, etc.)." This term implies more than mere intellectual acquaintance; it suggests a deep, experiential understanding and recognition. In the context of the Law, it means a comprehensive grasp of its precepts, implications, and the character of God it reveals. This "knowledge" was foundational to their informed decision to enter the covenant.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims":** This opening clause immediately broadens the scope of the covenant beyond the leaders listed in the preceding verses. It enumerates various segments of the community, starting with "the rest of the people" (implying the general populace) and then specifically listing various temple functionaries. The "priests" and "Levites" were the primary religious officiants and assistants. The "porters" were gatekeepers, responsible for security and access to the temple courts. The "singers" led worship through music and song. The "Nethinims" were temple servants, often of foreign descent, dedicated to assisting the Levites in various duties. This detailed enumeration emphasizes that the commitment was comprehensive, involving all who served in or were associated with the temple, as well as the general citizenry.
* **"and all they that had separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God":** This crucial phrase identifies a specific group: those who had made a conscious, deliberate choice to disassociate from the pagan practices and influences of the surrounding Gentile nations. This "separation" (Hebrew _badal_) was a spiritual and moral act of dedication to the Torah, the Law of God. It highlights the proactive nature of their commitment, choosing God's Law over cultural conformity, which was a significant challenge in post-exilic Judah. This was a public declaration of allegiance to Yahweh alone.
* **"their wives, their sons, and their daughters":** This inclusion is vital, emphasizing the multi-generational and familial nature of the covenant. It indicates that the commitment was not just individual but extended to entire households. This reflects the corporate identity of Israel and the expectation that faith and obedience to God's Law would be taught and lived out within the family unit, ensuring the transmission of spiritual values to future generations. It underscores the holistic impact of the covenant on every member of the family.
* **"every one having knowledge, and having understanding":** This concluding phrase underscores the informed and intentional nature of their participation. Their commitment was not coerced or blind but was made by individuals who possessed a deep comprehension of God's Law and the implications of their covenant vows. This highlights the importance of spiritual literacy and discernment in true obedience, ensuring that their dedication was rooted in conviction rather than mere obligation. It implies a maturity and awareness that made their pledge genuinely meaningful.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 10:28 primarily employs **Enumeration** and **Emphasis** through inclusion. The detailed listing of various groups ("priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims") serves as a meticulous enumeration, systematically detailing the comprehensive reach of the covenant. This extensive list creates a powerful sense of **Inclusivity**, emphasizing that virtually every segment of the community, from the religious elite and specialized temple servants to the general populace, was involved in this solemn pledge. The phrase "and all they that had separated themselves" acts as a further emphatic inclusion, highlighting the deliberate spiritual choice made by many to distinguish themselves from pagan influences. The repetition of the idea of comprehensive participation, culminating in "every one having knowledge, and having understanding," serves as a rhetorical device to **Emphasize** the voluntary, informed, and collective nature of this pivotal covenant renewal, reinforcing that this was a conscious, community-wide commitment rather than a mere formality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 10:28 offers profound theological insights into the nature of covenant, community, and commitment. It illustrates that true spiritual renewal is both a corporate and individual endeavor, requiring a conscious decision to align one's life and family with God's revealed will. The act of "separating themselves" underscores the biblical principle of holiness, where God calls His people to be distinct from the world's values and practices, not for isolation, but for faithful witness and obedience. This verse also highlights the indispensable role of knowledge and understanding in genuine faith, demonstrating that spiritual commitment is not a blind leap but an informed response to God's truth. The multi-generational involvement emphasizes the enduring legacy of faith, where parents are entrusted with passing on the covenant to their children, ensuring the continuity of God's people.

* [Deuteronomy 29:10-13](/deuteronomy/29-10-13 "All Israel Enters Covenant")
* [Joshua 24:15](/joshua/24-15 "Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve")
* [2 Corinthians 6:17-18](/2_corinthians/6-17-18 "2 Corinthians 6:17-18 - Come Out From Them")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 10:28 serves as a powerful mirror for contemporary believers and the church, calling us to a renewed and intentional commitment to God. Just as the post-exilic community responded to the public reading of God's Law with a comprehensive covenant, we are challenged to allow the Word of God to profoundly shape our individual lives and collective identity. Our faith should not be a passive inheritance but an active, informed, and deliberate choice to separate ourselves from the world's decaying values and align with God's holy standards. This commitment extends beyond personal piety to encompass our families, ensuring that our households are places where faith is taught, lived, and passed down through generations. The verse reminds us that true obedience flows from a heart that "has knowledge and understanding" of God's character and commands, urging us to diligently study Scripture so that our devotion is rooted in truth and conviction, leading to a life that genuinely honors Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life or your family's life do you need to make a more conscious decision to "separate yourself" from worldly influences and dedicate yourself "unto the law of God"?**
* **How does your personal and corporate commitment to God compare to the comprehensive and inclusive dedication described in Nehemiah 10:28? Are there segments of your life or community that remain uncommitted or are merely going through the motions?**
* **What steps can you take to deepen your "knowledge and understanding" of God's Word, ensuring that your obedience is informed and intentional rather than merely habitual or culturally inherited?**
* **How effectively are you modeling and transmitting faith to the next generation within your family or spiritual community, reflecting the multi-generational commitment seen in this verse? What practical steps can you implement to foster this legacy?**

### FAQ
**Who were the various groups mentioned in Nehemiah 10:28, and why is their inclusion significant?**

Answer: Nehemiah 10:28 lists "the rest of the people," "the priests," "the Levites," "the porters," "the singers," and "the Nethinims." The "priests" and "Levites" were the religious leaders and temple assistants, respectively, responsible for sacrifices, teaching the Law, and maintaining the sanctuary. "Porters" were gatekeepers of the temple, ensuring security and controlling access. "Singers" led worship through music and song. The "Nethinims" were temple servants, often of non-Israelite descent (like the Gibeonites mentioned in [Joshua 9:27](/joshua/9-27 "Joshua 9:27 - Gibeonites Become Servants")), dedicated to assisting the Levites in various menial tasks. The significance of their inclusion, alongside "all they that had separated themselves from the people of the lands" and their families, is profound. It demonstrates that the covenant renewal was not an exclusive act of the elite who signed the document in [Nehemiah 10:1-27](/nehemiah/10 "Nehemiah 10 - The Covenant Renewal"), but a comprehensive, community-wide commitment. Every segment of society, from the highest religious office to the lowest temple servant, and crucially, all who had made a conscious decision to separate from pagan influences, participated. This highlights the corporate nature of Israel's covenant relationship with God and the expectation that all members would willingly adhere to His Law, ensuring a truly unified and dedicated community.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah 10:28, with its emphasis on a comprehensive, informed, and voluntary covenant renewal, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant. The old covenant, though good and holy, was ultimately insufficient to fully transform the human heart and secure lasting obedience, as evidenced by Israel's repeated failures and the need for constant renewal. Christ, however, inaugurated a new and better covenant, not merely written on tablets of stone or sealed by human signatures, but inscribed on the hearts of believers by the Holy Spirit (cf. [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant") and [Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8-6-13 "Hebrews 8:6-13 - A Superior Covenant")). The "separation" from the "people of the lands" in Nehemiah foreshadows the New Testament call for believers in Christ to be "in the world but not of the world" (cf. [John 17:14-16](/john/17-14-16 "John 17:14-16 - Jesus Prays for His Disciples") and [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Do Not Be Conformed to This World")), a spiritual separation unto holiness made possible by the indwelling Spirit who empowers us to live distinctly for God. The "knowledge and understanding" sought by the post-exilic community is fully realized in Christ, who is the embodiment of divine wisdom and truth (cf. [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Whom Are Hidden All Treasures")), and through whom we gain true knowledge of God. Furthermore, the radical inclusivity of the covenant in Nehemiah, extending even to Nethinims, points to the even greater inclusivity of the church, where in Christ there is "neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (cf. [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - One in Christ Jesus")). The multi-generational commitment of families in Nehemiah finds its echo in the Christian imperative to raise children in the "discipline and instruction of the Lord" (cf. [Ephesians 6:4](/ephesians/6-4 "Ephesians 6:4 - Children and Parents")), fostering households dedicated to Christ and His kingdom, passing on the legacy of faith in a new and living way through the Spirit.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Nehemiah 9:2

And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers.

2 Corinthians 6:14

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

2 Corinthians 6:17

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,

Ecclesiastes 5:2

Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter [any] thing before God: for God [is] in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.

Romans 1:1

¶ Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called [to be] an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

Nehemiah 7:72

And [that] which the rest of the people gave [was] twenty thousand drams of gold, and two thousand pound of silver, and threescore and seven priests' garments.

Nehemiah 7:73

So the priests, and the Levites, and the porters, and the singers, and [some] of the people, and the Nethinims, and all Israel, dwelt in their cities; and when the seventh month came, the children of Israel [were] in their cities.