Nehemiah 11:17

KJV

And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, [was] the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer: and Bakbukiah the second among his brethren, and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Mattaniah {H4983} the son {H1121} of Micha {H4316}, the son {H1121} of Zabdi {H2067}, the son {H1121} of Asaph {H623}, was the principal {H7218} to begin {H8462} the thanksgiving {H3034} in prayer {H8605}: and Bakbukiah {H1229} the second {H4932} among his brethren {H251}, and Abda {H5653} the son {H1121} of Shammua {H8051}, the son {H1121} of Galal {H1559}, the son {H1121} of Jeduthun {H3038}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and Matanyah the son of Mikha, the son of Zavdi, the son of Asaf, the leader who began the thanksgiving prayer; and Bakbukyah, the second among his kinsmen; and 'Avda the son of Shamua, the son of Galal, the son of Y'dutun.

Berean Standard Bible

Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, who led in thanksgiving and prayer; Bakbukiah, second among his associates; and Abda son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.

American Standard Version

and Mattaniah the son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, who was the chief to begin the thanksgiving in prayer, and Bakbukiah, the second among his brethren; and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 11:17 meticulously identifies key Levitical figures, Mattaniah and Abda, both descendants of renowned temple musicians Asaph and Jeduthun, who were instrumental in re-establishing organized worship in post-exilic Jerusalem. This verse underscores the vital role of dedicated worship leaders in initiating corporate thanksgiving and prayer, signifying a profound spiritual revitalization that paralleled the physical rebuilding of the city and the re-population of its sacred spaces.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 11 is situated within the broader narrative of Jerusalem's restoration after the Babylonian exile. Following the monumental task of rebuilding the city walls (Nehemiah 1-6) and the profound spiritual renewal marked by the public reading of the Law and a covenant recommitment (Nehemiah 8-10), chapter 11 details the repopulation of Jerusalem. This chapter functions as a critical census, meticulously listing the families—including priests, Levites, and gatekeepers—who chose to reside within the holy city's newly secured boundaries. Nehemiah 11:17 specifically falls within the section identifying the Levites responsible for the temple services, including musical leadership and administrative oversight. This detailed record demonstrates the meticulous re-establishment of the temple's full function and the orderly administration of worship, serving as a necessary spiritual complement to the physical reconstruction. It reinforces the community's commitment to a fully functioning spiritual center, echoing the earlier efforts of [Ezra in organizing the returnees](/ezra/2 "Ezra 2 - List of the Exiles Who Returned") and re-instituting proper temple rituals.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is post-exilic Judah, approximately in the mid-5th century BCE, under Persian dominion. The community had endured seventy years of Babylonian captivity and now faced the immense challenge of rebuilding not only physical structures but also their national and religious identity. In this context, the meticulous recording of lineages, particularly for those involved in temple service, was paramount for maintaining ritual purity, ensuring proper succession, and validating authority within the Levitical and priestly orders. Asaph and Jeduthun were revered Levitical musicians and seers appointed by King David to lead temple worship, as extensively detailed in [1 Chronicles 25](/1_chronicles/25 "1 Chronicles 25 - Organization of Temple Musicians"). Their descendants continuing this sacred role centuries later underscored the profound importance of hereditary ministry and the preservation of ancient, divinely ordained traditions in the restored community. Worship, especially through music and communal prayer, was central to Israelite identity and served as a primary expression of their covenant relationship with Yahweh, fostering unity and spiritual resilience.

* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes present in the book of Nehemiah. The theme of **Restoration** is profoundly evident in the re-establishment of organized temple worship and the return of dedicated personnel to Jerusalem. It highlights that true restoration encompasses not only physical structures but, more importantly, the spiritual practices and covenant relationship with God. The theme of **Organized Worship** is prominent, with specific individuals assigned clear leadership roles, indicating a structured and intentional approach to communal praise and prayer. This order was vital for the community's spiritual health, adherence to Mosaic law, and the proper functioning of the temple. Furthermore, the explicit mention of Mattaniah and Abda's lineage from Asaph and Jeduthun emphasizes the theme of **Hereditary Ministry and Continuity**, demonstrating a deep commitment to preserving the rich heritage of Levitical service passed down through generations. This continuity provided a tangible link to the glorious worship of the past, reinforcing the enduring nature of God's covenant and the timeless importance of praise and thanksgiving, as often expressed throughout the [Psalms](/psalms/100 "Psalm 100 - A Psalm of Thanksgiving").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Principal (Hebrew, _rôʼsh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to shake," this term literally refers to "the head" but extends to denote the chief, leader, or one in the highest rank or position. In this context, Mattaniah was not merely a participant but the primary initiator and director of the congregational thanksgiving and prayer. This signifies a role of preeminent authority and significant responsibility in the liturgical life of the post-exilic community, indicating that he was the designated "head" or "chief" of this specific worship function.
* **Thanksgiving (Hebrew, _yâdâh'_):** This word, a denominative from the root meaning "hand," literally implies using or holding out the hand. It is used to express reverence or worship with extended hands, and intensively, to bemoan by wringing the hands. In this context, it specifically refers to praise, confession, and the act of giving thanks. The inclusion of _yâdâh_ here highlights that the worship was not solely petitionary but fundamentally rooted in acknowledging God's goodness, faithfulness, and deeds through expressions of gratitude and adoration, often accompanied by physical gestures.
* **Prayer (Hebrew, _tᵉphillâh'_):** This term refers to intercession, supplication, or general communication with God. By implication, it can also refer to a hymn. When combined with "thanksgiving," it indicates a holistic approach to worship where adoration and gratitude seamlessly blend with petition and intercession. It suggests a dynamic and comprehensive engagement with God that is both responsive to His character and expressive of human needs and desires.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph":** This clause meticulously identifies the primary worship leader by tracing his lineage through three generations back to Asaph, a renowned Levitical choirmaster from King David's era. This detailed genealogical information served to establish Mattaniah's legitimacy and authority, highlighting the continuity and preservation of a specific, prestigious line of worship leadership within the Levitical tribe, essential for the re-establishment of proper temple service.
* **"[was] the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer":** This phrase precisely defines Mattaniah's specific and crucial role within the restored community. He was the chief individual, the designated leader, responsible for initiating and guiding the communal expressions of gratitude and supplication. This indicates a structured liturgical setting where a designated leader guided the congregation into corporate acts of worship, seamlessly blending adoration for God's character and deeds with humble petition and intercession.
* **"and Bakbukiah the second among his brethren":** This clause introduces Bakbukiah, who held a subordinate but nonetheless important leadership position. Being "the second" implies a clear hierarchy and division of labor within the worship team, ensuring order, efficiency, and continuity in leadership, perhaps serving as a deputy or assistant to Mattaniah in the execution of these vital liturgical duties.
* **"and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun":** This final clause introduces another key figure, Abda, whose lineage is meticulously traced back to Jeduthun, another prominent Levitical musician and choirmaster from David's time. His inclusion further underscores the comprehensive re-establishment of a full complement of hereditary worship leaders, reinforcing the systematic and thorough nature of the restored temple service and the community's commitment to ancestral traditions.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 11:17 employs several literary devices to convey its message with precision and emphasis. The most prominent is **Genealogy**, as seen in the detailed tracing of Mattaniah's lineage to Asaph and Abda's to Jeduthun. This device serves to establish the legitimacy, authority, and continuity of their roles, powerfully connecting the post-exilic worship leaders to the revered traditions and divinely ordained practices of the Davidic era. It reinforces the idea that the restored community is not inventing new practices but faithfully re-establishing ancient, sacred ones. Closely related is **Enumeration**, as the verse is part of a larger, meticulous list of individuals residing in Jerusalem. This comprehensive listing emphasizes the thorough and organized nature of the repopulation and the structured administration of the community, particularly concerning temple service. The precise identification of roles ("principal," "second") also demonstrates **Specificity**, highlighting the intentionality, order, and clear delegation of responsibilities in the re-establishment of worship. Finally, the phrase "thanksgiving in prayer" can be seen as a form of **Merism**, where two complementary parts (thanksgiving and prayer) are used to represent a complete, holistic act of worship, signifying that true communion with God involves both adoration for His character and humble petition for His provision.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 11:17 profoundly illustrates the theological conviction that organized, intentional worship is central to the life and identity of God's people. The meticulous re-establishment of worship leadership, particularly through the descendants of renowned figures like Asaph and Jeduthun, signifies God's faithfulness in restoring His people not just physically but spiritually, emphasizing that the rebuilding of walls was merely a prelude to the rebuilding of a vibrant relationship with God. This relationship was to be expressed through communal praise and prayer. The emphasis on "thanksgiving in prayer" reveals a holistic understanding of worship that integrates adoration for God's character and deeds with humble supplication for His continued provision and guidance. This verse teaches that dedicated leaders are vital for fostering an environment where the community can collectively engage with God, reflecting a deep commitment to spiritual order and the glorification of God's name through structured liturgical practice. It underscores that true restoration is incomplete without the restoration of vibrant, corporate worship.

* [1 Chronicles 25:1](/1_chronicles/25-1 "1 Chronicles 25:1 - Organization of Temple Musicians")
* [Psalm 100:4](/psalms/100-4 "Psalm 100:4 - Enter His Gates with Thanksgiving")
* [Ezra 3:10-11](/ezra/3-10-11 "Ezra 3:10-11 - Laying the Temple Foundation with Praise")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 11:17 provides enduring insights for believers today, emphasizing the timeless importance of dedicated worship leadership and the holistic nature of our communion with God. The meticulous re-establishment of temple service, with specific individuals appointed to lead praise and prayer, serves as a powerful reminder that corporate worship is not a casual gathering but a sacred, intentional act requiring thoughtful preparation and spiritual guidance. Mattaniah's role as the "principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer" challenges us to integrate gratitude into every aspect of our spiritual lives, recognizing that genuine prayer flows from a heart that first acknowledges God's goodness and faithfulness. This verse encourages us to value and support those called to lead worship, recognizing their vital role in cultivating an atmosphere where the community can encounter God meaningfully and participate actively. Furthermore, the continuation of the Asaph and Jeduthun lineages highlights the importance of spiritual legacy and faithfully stewarding the gifts and responsibilities passed down through generations of faith, ensuring that the rich heritage of worship is preserved and passed on to future generations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the emphasis on "thanksgiving in prayer" in Nehemiah 11:17 challenge or enrich your personal and corporate worship practices today?**
* **What is the significance of dedicated worship leadership in your faith community, and how can you actively support and encourage those in such roles?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals and as a community, ensure that our worship remains both structured and Spirit-led, honoring God with both order and passionate devotion?**

### FAQ
**Who were Asaph and Jeduthun, and why is their lineage important here?**

Answer: Asaph and Jeduthun were two of the three principal Levitical choirmasters appointed by King David to lead music and worship in the tabernacle, and later the temple (the third being Heman). They were not just musicians but also seers and prophets who ministered through song, and many Psalms are attributed to them or their descendants, indicating their profound spiritual authority and musical skill. Their lineage is crucial in Nehemiah 11:17 because it signifies continuity, legitimacy, and the preservation of a sacred, hereditary ministry. For the post-exilic community, having descendants of these revered figures leading worship provided a tangible, historical link to the glorious worship of the past. This validated their current practices and reinforced their identity as God's covenant people, underscoring that the restored worship was not a new invention but a faithful re-establishment of ancient, divinely ordained traditions.

**What does "the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer" mean for worship today?**

Answer: This phrase highlights the critical role of worship leaders in initiating and guiding corporate worship. "The principal" (Hebrew _ro'sh_) denotes the chief or head, indicating a designated leader responsible for setting the tone and direction of the worship gathering. "To begin the thanksgiving in prayer" implies a liturgical function—to lead the congregation in expressions of both profound gratitude (thanksgiving) and humble supplication (prayer). For worship today, this means that effective corporate worship is often facilitated by intentional leadership that guides the congregation into a holistic encounter with God. It emphasizes that worship should be a blend of adoration for who God is and what He has done, alongside humble petition for His ongoing work in our lives and the world. It calls for worship that is both Spirit-led and thoughtfully structured, ensuring that both praise and intercession are integral components of our communal approach to God, as beautifully articulated in passages like [Philippians 4:6](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6 - Prayer with Thanksgiving").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Nehemiah 11:17 details the meticulous re-establishment of Levitical worship leadership in the Old Covenant, it ultimately points forward to the ultimate and perfect worship leader, Jesus Christ. The structured organization of temple worship, with its designated leaders and blend of thanksgiving and prayer, served as a vital foreshadowing of the new covenant reality, where direct access to God is no longer mediated by a temporary Levitical priesthood but by Christ Himself. He is the true "principal" of our worship, not merely initiating it but enabling it through His finished work on the cross. As our great High Priest, Jesus has entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all, offering a perfect sacrifice that opens the way for us to [draw near to God with confidence](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God Through Christ"). Our thanksgiving and prayer are now offered through Him, made acceptable by His righteousness and intercession. Moreover, Christ is not just the leader of our worship but also its ultimate object and content. In Him, the blend of thanksgiving for His redemptive work and humble prayer for His continued reign finds its perfect expression. The Holy Spirit, whom Christ sends, empowers us to worship God "in spirit and truth," transcending the limitations of the physical temple and its earthly leaders, and enabling us to offer a spiritual sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving that is truly pleasing to God ([John 4:23-24](/john/4-23-24 "John 4:23-24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth"); [Colossians 3:16-17](/colossians/3-16-17 "Colossians 3:16-17 - Singing with Gratitude in Your Hearts")).

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

1 Chronicles 9:15

And Bakbakkar, Heresh, and Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Micah, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph;

1 Chronicles 25:1

¶ Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was:

1 Chronicles 25:6

All these [were] under the hands of their father for song [in] the house of the LORD, with cymbals, psalteries, and harps, for the service of the house of God, according to the king's order to Asaph, Jeduthun, and Heman.

1 Chronicles 16:4

And he appointed [certain] of the Levites to minister before the ark of the LORD, and to record, and to thank and praise the LORD God of Israel:

Nehemiah 10:12

Zaccur, Sherebiah, Shebaniah,

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Pray without ceasing.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.