What number verse is Nehemiah 11:26 in the Bible?

Nehemiah 11:26 is the 12,615th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Nehemiah 11:26 sits at position 12,615.

Translation

King James Version

And at Jeshua, and at Moladah, and at Bethphelet,

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KJV (with Strong's)

And at Jeshua ^H3442, and at Moladah ^H4137, and at Bethphelet ^H1046,

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Complete Jewish Bible

in Yeshua, in Moladah, in Beit-Pelet,

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Berean Standard Bible

in Jeshua, Moladah, and Beth-pelet;

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American Standard Version

and in Jeshua, and in Moladah, and Beth-pelet,

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World English Bible Messianic

and in Yeshua, and in Moladah, and Beth Pelet,

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And in Ieshua, and in Moladah, and in Beth palet,

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Young's Literal Translation

and in Jeshua, and in Moladah, and in Beth-Phelet,

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Nehemiah 11:26 is a concise yet significant verse, meticulously listing three towns—Jeshua, Moladah, and Bethphelet—re-inhabited by the returning exiles of Judah and Benjamin. This detail is part of a broader census in Nehemiah 11, which documents the organized repopulation of Jerusalem and the surrounding territories after the Babylonian captivity. The verse underscores the post-exilic community's commitment to re-establishing their presence throughout the promised land, moving beyond the capital to secure the breadth of their ancestral inheritance and fulfill God's covenant promises.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Nehemiah 11:26 is situated within a crucial administrative section of the book of Nehemiah, specifically following the completion and dedication of Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah 6-7) and the spiritual renewal under Ezra's leadership (Nehemiah 8-10). Chapter 11 marks a pivot from rebuilding the physical structures to repopulating the land, which was essential for the long-term viability and security of the restored community. This chapter provides a detailed register of the families and individuals who settled in Jerusalem and the surrounding towns, with verse 26 contributing to the list of settlements in the southern region of Judah. The meticulous nature of this list highlights the careful planning and organization involved in re-establishing the nation, demonstrating a commitment to God's covenant promises regarding the land.
Historical & Cultural Context: The period described is the post-exilic era, specifically after the return from Babylonian captivity, likely in the mid-5th century BCE under Persian rule. While Jerusalem had been rebuilt, much of the surrounding Judean countryside remained sparsely populated or desolate after decades of neglect and foreign occupation. The repopulation effort was not merely a logistical exercise but a theological imperative, fulfilling prophecies of return and re-inhabitation (e.g., Jeremiah 32:44). Culturally, the act of settling the land reaffirmed their identity as the people of Israel, tied to their ancestral inheritance. These towns, Jeshua, Moladah, and Bethphelet, were located in the Negeb (southern) region of Judah, indicating the breadth of the repopulation effort beyond the immediate vicinity of Jerusalem, strengthening the southern border and re-establishing agricultural and pastoral life.
Key Themes: This verse, as part of Nehemiah 11, contributes significantly to several overarching themes. Firstly, Re-establishment and Repopulation is paramount, illustrating the deliberate and organized effort to fill the desolate land with the covenant people, a vital step in restoring national identity and security. Secondly, it highlights the Commitment and Perseverance of the returning exiles, who, despite challenges, undertook the arduous task of settling remote or ruined areas, demonstrating their resolve to rebuild the entire region, not just the capital. Thirdly, the meticulous record-keeping, though humanly orchestrated, subtly underscores Divine Providence and Faithfulness. It reflects God's hand guiding the restoration of His people to their land, as promised, enabling them to re-establish their presence and fulfill the covenant, echoing earlier promises concerning the land given to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). The return and resettlement were a testament to God's enduring covenant love, even after the discipline of exile (Deuteronomy 30:1-5).

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Jeshua (Hebrew, Yêshûwaʻ, H3442): This name, meaning "he will save" or "the Lord saves," is significant not only as a place name but also due to its underlying theological resonance. While primarily identifying a geographical location, its etymology subtly echoes the broader theme of divine deliverance and restoration that characterizes the post-exilic period. The very act of re-inhabiting these towns was a testament to God's saving work in bringing His people back from exile.
Moladah (Hebrew, Môwlâdâh, H4137): Meaning "birth" or "generation," this name, like Jeshua, carries a symbolic weight beyond its geographical designation. It speaks to the idea of new beginnings, the re-generation of the community, and the continuation of the covenant people after the desolation of exile. The repopulation was a "new birth" for the nation, signifying renewed life and the perpetuation of their lineage in the promised land.
Bethphelet (Hebrew, Bêyth Peleṭ, H1046): This name translates to "house of escape" or "house of deliverance." Its meaning directly points to the experience of the exiles who had indeed "escaped" or been "delivered" from Babylon. Settling in a "house of deliverance" would have been a poignant reminder of God's faithfulness in rescuing them and establishing them once again in their homeland.

Verse Breakdown

"And at Jeshua": This phrase introduces the first of three specific towns in the southern territory of Judah that were re-inhabited by the returning exiles. The mention of Jeshua underscores the detailed nature of the census, highlighting the specific locations where the community was re-establishing its presence. Its inclusion signifies the expansion of settlement beyond Jerusalem, contributing to the broader repopulation effort and demonstrating the thoroughness of the administrative re-organization.
"and at Moladah": Following Jeshua, Moladah is listed as another key settlement. The inclusion of Moladah further emphasizes the geographical spread of the repopulation, extending into the southern reaches of Judah. These towns, often mentioned in conjunction with others in the Negeb, were vital for securing the southern borders of Judah and re-establishing agricultural and pastoral life in the region, ensuring the economic and defensive viability of the restored nation.
"and at Bethphelet": The final town listed in this verse, Bethphelet, completes the trio of southern Judean settlements. Its mention reinforces the meticulous record-keeping of Nehemiah 11, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the repopulation strategy. The enumeration of these specific places highlights the tangible reality of the returnees' commitment to reclaiming and inhabiting the entirety of their ancestral land, moving beyond mere survival to systematic re-establishment.

Literary Devices

Nehemiah 11:26 primarily employs Listing/Enumeration, a common literary device in historical and administrative texts of the Bible. This meticulous cataloging of towns serves to provide a comprehensive and verifiable record of the post-exilic repopulation efforts, lending credibility and authority to the narrative. The precise naming of Topographical Detail (Jeshua, Moladah, Bethphelet) grounds the abstract concept of "repopulation" in concrete geographical realities, emphasizing the physical re-establishment of the community in specific, identifiable locations within the promised land. Furthermore, while not a direct literary device, the Symbolism inherent in the names themselves (Jeshua: "salvation," Moladah: "birth," Bethphelet: "house of escape") adds a layer of theological resonance, subtly echoing the themes of divine deliverance, new beginnings, and restoration that permeate the book of Nehemiah and the broader post-exilic narrative.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Nehemiah 11:26, though a simple list of names, is deeply embedded in the theological narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. It demonstrates the tangible fulfillment of prophecies concerning the return from exile and the re-inhabitation of the land, affirming that God keeps His promises even after periods of judgment. The meticulous repopulation of these towns was not merely an administrative task but an act of faith, signifying the community's commitment to rebuilding their life under God's sovereignty. It underscores the importance of every part of the promised land and every individual family in God's grand plan of restoration, reflecting a holistic view of national and spiritual renewal.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Nehemiah 11:26, despite its seemingly mundane nature as a list of towns, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that true restoration and spiritual rebuilding often require diligent, organized effort that extends beyond grand, visible projects. Just as the Israelites were called to re-inhabit every corner of their promised land, attending to the details of community life and securing their presence in seemingly insignificant places, so too are believers called to faithfulness in every sphere of their lives. This includes stewarding the specific places, relationships, and responsibilities God has entrusted to them, building up communities, and demonstrating commitment in the everyday, often unseen, aspects of life. The meticulous record-keeping also highlights the value of every individual and every location within God's larger, redemptive plan, encouraging us to see divine purpose even in the details. Our faithfulness in small, specific areas contributes to the larger work of God's kingdom.

Questions for Reflection

Where in my life or community am I called to "repopulate" or "re-establish" faithfulness in areas that might seem mundane or overlooked?
How does the commitment of the returning exiles to settle challenging areas inspire my own perseverance in difficult spiritual or communal tasks?
In what ways can I recognize God's providence and faithfulness at work in the seemingly small or detailed aspects of my life and responsibilities?

FAQ

Why is Nehemiah 11:26, a list of towns, included in the Bible?

Answer: Nehemiah 11:26, along with the broader chapter, is included in the biblical narrative for several crucial reasons. Firstly, it serves as a historical record, meticulously documenting the post-exilic repopulation of Judah, which was vital for the re-establishment of the Jewish nation after decades of Babylonian captivity. This detailed census demonstrates the organized effort to fulfill God's promise to bring His people back to their land (Jeremiah 29:10). Secondly, it underscores the theme of divine faithfulness; the ability of the exiles to return and re-inhabit their ancestral towns was a direct fulfillment of God's covenant promises. Thirdly, it highlights the commitment and perseverance of the people, who, having rebuilt Jerusalem's walls, now undertook the arduous task of settling the surrounding, often desolate, territories, thereby securing the nation's borders and economic viability. It shows that God's work of restoration involves both grand acts and meticulous, detailed efforts.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Nehemiah 11:26 is a historical record of geographical repopulation, its underlying themes point to the greater spiritual restoration found in Christ. The re-inhabitation of the physical land by the returning exiles foreshadows the spiritual re-inhabitation of God's people by the Holy Spirit, making them temples of God (1 Corinthians 6:19). The names of the towns themselves—Jeshua ("salvation"), Moladah ("birth"), and Bethphelet ("house of escape")—resonate profoundly with the work of Jesus. He is our ultimate Salvation, through Him we experience a new birth into God's family, and He provides the true "house of escape" from sin and death, offering eternal deliverance (Hebrews 2:15). Just as the exiles returned to a physical inheritance, believers in Christ inherit spiritual blessings and a heavenly citizenship (Ephesians 1:3), becoming part of God's holy nation, a people re-established not by geographical location but by faith in the Lamb of God (1 Peter 2:9-10). The meticulous care for every town in Nehemiah points to God's comprehensive plan of redemption, which leaves no part of humanity untouched by His saving grace, ultimately culminating in the new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13).

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Commentary on Nehemiah 11 verses 20–36

20 ¶ And the residue of Israel, of the priests, and the Levites, were in all the cities of Judah, every one in his inheritance.

21 But the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel: and Ziha and Gispa were over the Nethinims.

22 The overseer also of the Levites at Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Micha. Of the sons of Asaph, the singers were over the business of the house of God.

23 For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for every day.

24 And Pethahiah the son of Meshezabeel, of the children of Zerah the son of Judah, was at the king's hand in all matters concerning the people.

25 And for the villages, with their fields, some of the children of Judah dwelt at Kirjatharba, and in the villages thereof, and at Dibon, and in the villages thereof, and at Jekabzeel, and in the villages thereof,

26 And at Jeshua, and at Moladah, and at Bethphelet,

27 And at Hazarshual, and at Beersheba, and in the villages thereof,

28 And at Ziklag, and at Mekonah, and in the villages thereof,

29 And at Enrimmon, and at Zareah, and at Jarmuth,

30 Zanoah, Adullam, and in their villages, at Lachish, and the fields thereof, at Azekah, and in the villages thereof. And they dwelt from Beersheba unto the valley of Hinnom.

31 The children also of Benjamin from Geba dwelt at Michmash, and Aija, and Bethel, and in their villages,

32 And at Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah,

33 Hazor, Ramah, Gittaim,

34 Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat,

35 Lod, and Ono, the valley of craftsmen.

36 And of the Levites were divisions in Judah, and in Benjamin.

Having given an account of the principal persons that dwelt in Jerusalem (a larger account of whom he had before, Ch1 9:2, etc.), Nehemiah, in these verses, gives us some account of the other cities, in which dwelt the residue of Israel, Neh 11:20. It was requisite that Jerusalem should be replenished, yet not so as to drain the country. The king himself is served of the field, which will do little service if there be not hands to manage it. Let there therefore be no strife, no envy, no contempt, no ill will, between the inhabitants of the cities and those of the villages; both are needful, both useful, and neither can be spared. 1. The Nethinims, the posterity of the Gibeonites, dwelt in Ophel, which was upon the wall of Jerusalem (Neh 3:26), because they were to do the servile work of the temple, which therefore they must be posted near to, that they might be ready to attend, Neh 11:21. 2. Though the Levites were dispersed through the cities of Judah, yet they had an overseer who resided in Jerusalem, superior of their order and their provincial, to whom they applied for direction, who took care of their affairs and took cognizance of their conduct, whether they did their duty, Neh 11:22. 3. Some of the singers were appointed to look after the necessary repairs of the temple, being ingenious men, and having leisure between their hours of service; they were over the business of the house of God, Neh 11:22. And, it seems, the king of Persia had such a kindness for their office that he allotted a particular maintenance for them, besides what belonged to them as Levites, Neh 11:23. 4. Here is one that was the king's commissioner at Jerusalem. He was of the posterity of Zerah (Neh 11:24); for of that family of Judah there were some new settled in Jerusalem, and not all of Pharez, as appears by that other catalogue, Ch1 9:6. He is said to be at the king's hand, or on the king's part, in all matters concerning the people, to determine controversies that arose between the king's officers and his subjects, to see that what was due to the king from the people was duly paid in and what was allowed by the king for the temple service was duly paid out, and happy it was for the Jews that one of themselves was in this post. 5. Here is an account of the villages, or country towns, which were inhabited by the residue of Israel - the towns in which the children of Judah dwelt (Neh 11:25-30), those that were inhabited by the children of Benjamin (Neh 11:31-35), and divisions for the Levites among both, Neh 11:36. We will now suppose them safe and easy, though few and poor, but by the blessing of God they were likely to increase in wealth and power, and they would have been more likely if there had not been that general profaneness among them, and lukewarmness in religion, with which they were charged in God's name by the prophet Malachi, who, it is supposed, prophesied about this time, and in whom prophecy ceased for some ages, till it revived in the great prophet and his forerunner.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 20–36. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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