Nehemiah 11:6

Nehemiah 11:6 provides a specific detail about the repopulation efforts in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile, highlighting the contribution of one particular family line to the city's renewed strength.

Historical and Cultural Context

The book of Nehemiah chronicles the return of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem from their Babylonian captivity. After the monumental task of rebuilding the city walls, as described in earlier chapters, the next crucial step was to repopulate the city. Jerusalem had been largely desolate, and for it to truly thrive again as the capital, it needed inhabitants. Chapter 11 details the process by which a tenth of the people were chosen by lot to dwell in Jerusalem, with others volunteering. This verse specifically lists the number of men from the family of Perez who took up residence in the newly secured city.

Key Themes

• Repopulation and Restoration: The primary theme is the strategic effort to restore Jerusalem not just physically, but also as a living, functioning community. The listing of specific numbers underscores the organized nature of this repopulation.
• Commitment and Sacrifice: Living in Jerusalem at this time was a significant commitment. The city was still vulnerable and likely offered fewer immediate comforts than the surrounding towns. These men demonstrated dedication to the national and spiritual renewal.
• Lineage and Identity: The mention of "sons of Perez" highlights the importance of tribal and family identity in post-exilic Israel. Each family's contribution was recognized, reinforcing their connection to the land and the covenant.
• Divine Providence: The very act of returning and rebuilding, including the repopulation, was seen as God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people, enabling them to reestablish their presence in the promised land.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "four hundred threescore and eight" means 468. This precise number reflects meticulous record-keeping, common in ancient Israelite genealogies and censuses, indicating the careful organization of the returning community.

The term "Perez" refers to one of the twin sons of Judah, born to Tamar. His descendants formed a significant clan within the tribe of Judah, which was central to the leadership and future of Israel.

The description "valiant men" (Hebrew: gibborim) is significant. This term implies not just physical strength but also courage, capability, and often military prowess. These were men fit for the challenging task of settling and defending a city that had recently been rebuilt and still faced potential threats. Their presence would have contributed to the city's security and stability, vital for the ongoing work of rebuilding and establishing a strong community.

Practical Application

Nehemiah 11:6 reminds us that grand projects, like the restoration of Jerusalem, rely on the faithful contribution of many individuals, even those whose roles might seem simply administrative or numerical. Each person's willingness to step into a challenging situation, to settle in a place that needed rebuilding, was crucial. This verse encourages us to value every contribution to a collective goal, recognizing that God uses specific individuals and groups to accomplish His purposes. It highlights the importance of courage and commitment in times of new beginnings or significant challenges, whether in personal life, community, or faith.