TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Nehemiah 10:1–31. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
When Israel was first brought into covenant with God it was done by sacrifice and the sprinkling of blood, Ex. 24. But here it was done by the more natural and common way of sealing and subscribing the written articles of the covenant, which bound them to no more than was already their duty. Now here we have,
I.The names of those public persons who, as the representatives and heads of the congregation, set their hands and seals to this covenant, because it would have been an endless piece of work for every particular person to do it; and, if these leading men did their part in pursuance of this covenant, their example would have a good influence upon all the people. Now observe,
1.Nehemiah, who was the governor, signed first, to show his forwardness in this work and to set others a good example, Neh 10:1. Those that are above others in dignity and power should go before them in the way of God.
2.Next to him subscribed twenty-two priests, among whom I wonder we do not find Ezra, who was an active man in the solemnity (Ezr 8:2) which was but the first day of the same month, and therefore we cannot think he was absent; but he, having before done his part as a scribe, now left it to others to do theirs.
3.Next to the priests, seventeen Levites subscribed this covenant, among whom we find all or most of those who were the mouth of the congregation in prayer, Ezr 9:4, Ezr 9:5. This showed that they themselves were affected with what they had said, and would not bind those burdens on others which they themselves declined to touch. Those that lead in prayer should lead in every other good work.
4.Next to the Levites, forty-four of the chief of the people gave it under their hands for themselves and all the rest, chiefly those whom they had influence upon, that they would keep God's commandments. Their names are left upon record here, to their honour, as men that were forward and active in reviving and endeavouring to perpetuate religion in their country. The memory of such shall be blessed. It is observable that most of those who were mentioned, Ezr 7:8, etc., as heads of houses or clans, are here mentioned among the first of the chief of the people that subscribed, whoever was the present head bearing the name of him that was head when they came out of Babylon, and these were fittest to subscribe for all those of their father's house. Here are Parosh, Pahathmoab, Elam, Zatthu, Bani (Neh 10:14), Azgad, Bebai, Bigvai, Adin, Ater, Hashum, Bezai, Hariph, Anathoth, and some others in the following verses, that are all found in that catalogue. Those that have interest must use it for God.
II.The concurrence of the rest of the people with them, and the rest of the priests and Levites, who signified their consent to what their chiefs did. With them joined,
1.Their wives and children; for they had transgressed, and they must reform. Every one that had knowledge and understanding must covenant with God. As soon as young people grow up to be capable of distinguishing between good and evil, and of acting intelligently, they ought to make it their own act and deed to join themselves to the Lord.
2.The proselytes of other nations, all that had separated themselves from the people of the lands, their gods and their worship, unto the law of God, and the observance of that law. See what conversion it; it is separating ourselves from the course and custom of this world, and devoting ourselves to the conduce of the word of God. And, as there is one law, so there is one covenant, one baptism, for the stranger and for him that is born in the land. Observe how the concurrence of the people is expressed, Neh 10:29.
(1.)They clave to their brethren one and all. Here those whom the court blessed the country blessed too! The commonalty agreed with their nobles in this good work. Great men never look so great as when they encourage religion, and are examples of it; and they would by that, as much as any thing, secure an interest in the most valuable of their inferiors. Let but the nobles cordially espouse religious causes, and perhaps they will find people cleave to them therein closer than they can imagine. Observe, Their nobles are called their brethren; for, in the things of God, rich and poor, high and low, meet together.
(2.)They entered into a curse and an oath. As the nobles confirmed the covenant with their hands and seals, so the people with a curse and an oath, solemnly appealing to God concerning their sincerity, and imprecating his just revenge if they dealt deceitfully. Every oath has in it a conditional curse upon the soul, which makes it a strong bond upon the soul; for our own tongues, if false and lying tongues, will fall, and fall heavily, upon ourselves.
III.The general purport of this covenant.
They laid upon themselves no other burden than this necessary thing, which they were already obliged to by all other engagements of duty, interest, and gratitude - to walk in God's law, and to do all his commandments, Neh 10:29. Thus David swore that he would keep God's righteous judgments, Psa 119:106. Our own covenant binds us to this, if not more strongly, yet more sensibly, than we were before bound, and therefore we must not think it needless thus to bind ourselves. Observe, When we bind ourselves to do the commandments of God we bind ourselves to do all his commandments, and therein to have an eye to him as the Lord and our Lord.
IV.Some of the particular articles of this covenant, such as were adapted to their present temptations.
1.That they would not intermarry with the heathen, Neh 10:30. Many of them had been guilty of this, Ezr 9:1. In our covenants with God we should engage particularly against those sins that we have been most frequently overtaken in and damaged by. Those that resolve to keep the commandments of God must say to evil doers, Depart, Psa 119:115.
2.That they would keep no markets on the sabbath day, or any other day of which the law had said, You shall do no work therein. They would not only not sell goods themselves for gain on that day, but they would not encourage the heathen to sell on that day by buying of them, no not victuals, under pretence of necessity; but would buy in their provisions for their families the day before, Neh 10:31. Note, Those that covenant to keep all God's commandments must particularly covenant to keep sabbaths well; for the profanation of them is an inlet to other instances of profaneness. The sabbath is a market day for our souls, but not for our bodies.
3.That they would not be severe in exacting their debts, but would observe the seventh year as a year of release, according to the law, Neh 10:31. In this matter they had been faulty (ch. 5), and here therefore they promise to reform. This was the acceptable fast, to undo the heavy burden, and to let the oppressed go free, Isa 58:6. It was in the close of the day of expiation that the jubilee trumpet sounded. It was for the neglect of observing the seventh year as a year of rest for the land that God had made it enjoy its sabbaths seventy years (Lev 26:35), and therefore they covenanted to observe that law. Those are stubborn children indeed that will not amend the fault for which they have been particularly corrected.
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Summary
Nehemiah 10:5 meticulously records the names of three significant priests—Harim, Meremoth, and Obadiah—who affixed their seals to the solemn covenant renewed with God by the post-exilic community in Jerusalem. This seemingly simple enumeration underscores the profound personal commitment and corporate dedication foundational to the spiritual and societal restoration of Israel, highlighting the vital role of the priesthood in upholding divine law and re-establishing proper worship after the return from Babylonian captivity.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is an integral part of Nehemiah 10, which details the formal sealing of a covenant by the returned exiles. It follows a period of profound spiritual revival sparked by the public reading of the Law in Nehemiah 8 and a national confession of sin and praise in Nehemiah 9. The people, having been re-educated in God's commandments and having repented of their past failures, now publicly commit themselves to obey the Mosaic Law. The extensive list of names in Nehemiah 10:1-27 serves as a historical record of those who, as leaders and representatives, pledged their allegiance to God's covenant, thereby solidifying the spiritual foundations of the newly re-established community in Judah. Nehemiah 10:5 specifically names three priests, emphasizing the critical role of the priestly class in this sacred undertaking, as they were central to the re-establishment of proper worship and adherence to the Law.
Historical & Cultural Context
The setting for Nehemiah 10 is post-exilic Jerusalem, approximately 444 BC. After decades of Babylonian captivity, various groups of Jews had returned to their homeland, facing the daunting task of rebuilding their city, temple, and national identity. Under Nehemiah's leadership, the walls of Jerusalem had been completed, providing physical security. However, spiritual restoration was equally, if not more, vital. The act of sealing a covenant was a deeply significant legal and religious practice in the ancient Near East, akin to signing a treaty or a contract. It involved a public declaration, often with curses invoked upon those who broke it, and was binding on the signatories and their descendants. For a community emerging from exile, this covenant renewal was not merely a formality but a foundational act of re-establishing their relationship with Yahweh as His chosen people, promising adherence to the Law, particularly concerning temple support, tithing, and Sabbath observance, as detailed in Nehemiah 10:32-39. This collective commitment marked a pivotal moment in their spiritual reformation.
Key Themes
Nehemiah 10:5, though a simple list, powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Nehemiah and the broader post-exilic narrative. Firstly, it highlights Covenant Loyalty and Renewal, showcasing the people's collective and individual commitment to re-enter a faithful relationship with God after generations of disobedience and exile, a theme central to the entire chapter as seen in Nehemiah 10:29. Secondly, it underscores Individual Accountability within Corporate Commitment, demonstrating that while the covenant was a communal act, it was built upon the personal dedication of specific individuals, whose names were deemed important enough to be recorded for posterity. Thirdly, the inclusion of these names speaks to the Restoration of Order and Divine Institutions, particularly the re-establishment of the priesthood and the proper functioning of the temple service, which was essential for the spiritual health and identity of the community, as outlined in Nehemiah 10:32-39. Finally, the very act of recording these names emphasizes the Historical Record and Enduring Legacy of faithfulness, serving as an encouragement for future generations to uphold God's commands.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This name literally means "snub-nosed." While the literal meaning refers to a physical characteristic, its inclusion here signifies an individual from a priestly family (Ezra 2:39) who participated in this solemn covenant. The emphasis is on the person's role and commitment rather than the etymological meaning of their name.
This name means "heights." Its presence in this list points to an individual, likely a prominent figure or one from a distinguished lineage, who was among those leading the community in this significant act of covenant renewal. Meremoth is also associated with those who handled the temple treasures upon return from exile, indicating a consistent involvement in the restoration efforts (Ezra 8:33).
This widely attested biblical name means "serving Jah" or "servant of Yahweh." Its profound meaning perfectly encapsulates the essence of the covenant renewal: a people, led by their priests, rededicating themselves to the service and worship of the one true God. The name itself serves as a powerful statement of identity and purpose, reflecting the broader commitment of the community to live as God's devoted servants.
Verse Breakdown
"Harim,"
The listing of Harim signifies the personal commitment of an individual priest, representing his family line, to the renewed covenant. His inclusion underscores the importance of individual, named participation in the corporate act of covenant renewal, ensuring that the agreement was not merely a general consensus but a specific pledge by key figures.
"Meremoth,"
Meremoth's presence in this list further emphasizes the broad representation of the priestly families in this solemn agreement. His name, possibly implying "elevation" or prominence, could subtly point to the aspirational nature of the covenant—to elevate the community's spiritual standing and practices. Like Harim, his inclusion highlights the specific individuals who bore the responsibility of leading the people back into faithful obedience.
"Obadiah,"
The name Obadiah, meaning "serving Jah," is profoundly significant in this context. It serves as a powerful summary of the entire purpose of the covenant: for the people, led by their priests, to live as true servants and worshippers of God. His inclusion ensures that the record is comprehensive, acknowledging all key priestly figures who publicly affirmed their devotion and commitment to the restoration of God's order among His people.
Literary Devices
Nehemiah 10:5, while seemingly a straightforward enumeration, employs several subtle but effective literary devices. The most apparent is Enumeration or Listing, which serves to meticulously record and authenticate the individuals involved in the covenant. This precise listing reinforces the historical veracity and solemnity of the event, emphasizing that the commitment was not abstract but involved specific, named persons. Beyond mere record-keeping, the act of listing these names functions as a form of Attestation, providing a witness to the covenant's signatories and lending weight to the agreement. Furthermore, the very presence of these names, particularly when their meanings are considered (as in the case of Obadiah, "serving Jah"), imbues the text with Symbolism. Names are not merely labels but become symbolic representations of the desired character and spiritual posture of the entire community entering into the covenant. The listing also serves as a Historical Record, ensuring that the faithfulness of these individuals, even if not prominent in other narratives, is preserved and remembered within the sacred text, providing a lasting testament to their role in the restoration of Israel.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Nehemiah 10:5, by listing the names of priests who sealed the covenant, provides a powerful theological statement about the nature of God's relationship with His people and the human response required. It underscores that divine covenants, while initiated by God's grace, demand a tangible, personal commitment from humanity. The act of signing or sealing signifies not just intellectual assent but a public, binding pledge of loyalty and obedience. This commitment, particularly from the priestly class, highlights the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding a community back to righteousness and order. The meticulous record-keeping reflects God's attention to individual faithfulness and the significance He places on those who respond to His call for holiness and service. It demonstrates that true spiritual revival culminates in concrete actions and renewed dedication to God's commands, foundational for the flourishing of His people.
Reflection and Application
Nehemiah 10:5, though a simple list of names, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that our faith is not merely a private conviction but often calls for public declaration and tangible commitment. Just as these priests sealed their covenant with God, believers today are called to affirm their faith through baptism, church membership, and active participation in the body of Christ, publicly aligning themselves with God's purposes. This verse also powerfully illustrates that every individual's commitment matters to God. Harim, Meremoth, and Obadiah were not necessarily the most famous figures, yet their names are etched into sacred history because of their faithfulness. This encourages us to recognize that our personal walk with God, our daily choices, and our quiet acts of obedience contribute significantly to the spiritual health and witness of the wider church. Our individual dedication, no matter how seemingly small, forms the bedrock of collective spiritual strength and leaves a legacy of faith that can inspire future generations.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are these specific names listed in the Bible?
These names are listed in Nehemiah 10:5 because they represent specific individuals, in this case, priests, who formally affixed their seals to a solemn covenant with God. This act was a public and binding declaration of their commitment to uphold the Mosaic Law and re-establish proper worship and societal order in post-exilic Jerusalem. The inclusion of their names serves several purposes: it provides a historical record of the event, emphasizes the individual accountability required for corporate spiritual renewal, and highlights the crucial role of the priesthood in leading the people back to God. It underscores that the covenant was not an abstract concept but a concrete commitment made by specific, named individuals who represented their families and the broader community, as part of the larger list of those who sealed the covenant in Nehemiah 10:1-27.
Do the meanings of these names have any significance to the context?
Yes, the meanings of the names listed in Nehemiah 10:5 are quite significant and resonate deeply with the context of covenant renewal. While "Harim" literally means "snub-nosed," its presence signifies a priestly family committed to God's service. "Meremoth" means "heights," which could metaphorically suggest a desire for spiritual upliftment or a prominent role in the community's restoration. Most notably, "Obadiah" means "serving Jah" or "servant of Yahweh." This name perfectly encapsulates the very essence of the covenant made in Nehemiah 10: The people, led by their priests, were rededicating themselves to living as true servants and worshippers of the one true God. The names themselves, therefore, serve as miniature theological statements, reinforcing the overarching theme of commitment, service, and devotion to God that pervades the entire chapter and the book of Nehemiah.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Nehemiah 10:5 records the names of those who committed to the Old Covenant, it subtly points forward to the ultimate covenant fulfillment found in Jesus Christ. The priests listed here were mediators of the Old Covenant, tasked with leading the people in obedience to a law that, due to human weakness, could not perfectly save or bring lasting righteousness. Their commitment, though commendable, was still to a covenant of works, foreshadowing the need for a superior, new covenant. Jesus, as our Great High Priest, is the mediator of this new and better covenant, established not by human seals and promises, but by His own shed blood on the cross, as prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31-34. In Christ, the law is written not on tablets of stone, but on the hearts of believers, enabling true obedience through the indwelling Holy Spirit, as promised in Ezekiel 36:26-27. Our commitment is no longer to a legal code for national restoration, but to a personal relationship with the living God through faith in His Son. Just as these names were recorded in Nehemiah, the names of all who trust in Christ are eternally recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life, signifying an unbreakable, Christ-secured covenant of grace and everlasting life.