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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Nehemiah 13:10–14. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is another grievance redressed by Nehemiah.
I.The Levites had been wronged.
This was the grievance: their portions had not been given them, Neh 13:10. Perhaps Tobiah, when he took possession of the store-chambers, seized the stores too, and, by the connivance of Eliashib, converted them to his own use. The complaint is not that they were not collected from the people, but that they were not given to the Levites, and the Levites were so modest as not to sue for them; for the Levites and singers fled every one to his field. This comes in as a reason either, (1.) Why their payments were withheld. The Levites were non-residents: when they should have been doing their work about the temple, they were at their farms in the country; and therefore the people were little inclined to give them their maintenance. If ministers have not the encouragement they should have, let them consider whether they themselves be not accessory to the contempt they are under, by the neglect of their business. Or rather, (2.) It is the reason why Nehemiah soon perceived that their dues had been denied them, because he missed them from their posts. "Where are the singers" (said Nehemiah); "why do not they attend according to their office, to praise God?" "Why, truly, they have gone every one to his country seat, to get a livelihood for themselves and their families out of their grounds; for their profession would not maintain them." A scandalous maintenance makes a scandalous ministry. The work is neglected because the workmen are. It was not long since the payment of the salaries appointed for the singers was put into a very good method (Neh 12:47); and yet how soon did it fail for want of being looked after!
II.Nehemiah laid the fault upon the rulers, who should have taken care that the Levites minded their business and had all due encouragement therein. This is required from Christian magistrates, that they use their power to oblige ministers to do their duty, and people to do theirs. Nehemiah began with the rulers, and called them to an account: "Why is the house of God forsaken? Neh 13:11. Why are the Levites starved out of it? Why did not you take notice of this and prevent it?" The people forsook the Levites, which was expressly forbidden (Deu 12:19; Deu 14:27); and then the Levites forsook their post in the house of God. Both ministers and people who forsake religion and the services of it, and magistrates too who do not what they can to keep them to it, will have a great deal to answer for.
III.He delayed not to bring the dispersed Levites to their places again, and set them in their stations (as the word is), Neh 13:11.
A Levite in his field (clericus in foroa minister keeping the market) is out of his station. God's house is his place, and there let him be found. Many that are careless would do much better than they do if they were but called upon. Say to Archippus, Take heed to thy ministry.
IV.He obliged the people to bring in their tithes, Neh 13:12.
His zeal provoked theirs; and, when they saw the Levites at their work, they could not for shame withhold their wages any longer, but honestly and cheerfully brought them in. The better church-work is done the better will church-dues be paid.
V.He provided that just and prompt payment should be made of the Levites' stipends.
Commissioners were appointed to see to this (Neh 13:13), and they were such as were accounted faithful, that is, had approved themselves so in other trusts committed to them, and so had purchased to themselves this good degree, Ti1 3:13. Let men be tried first and then trusted, tried in the less and then trusted with more. Their office was to receive and pay, to distribute to their brethren in due season and due proportions.
VI.Having no recompence (it is a question whether he had thanks) from those for whom he did these good services, he looks up to God as his paymaster (Neh 13:14): Remember me, O my God! concerning this. Nehemiah was a man much in pious ejaculations; on every occasion he looked up to God, and committed himself and his affairs to him.
1.He here reflects with comfort and much satisfaction upon what he had done for the house of God and the offices thereof; it pleased him to think that he had been any way instrumental to revive and support religion in his country and to reform what was amiss. What kindness any show to God's ministers, thus shall it be returned into their own bosoms, in the secret joy they shall have there, not only in having done well, but in having done good, good to many, good to souls.
2.He here refers it to God to consider him for it, not in pride, or as boasting of what he had done, much less depending upon it as his righteousness, or as if he thought he had made God a debtor to him, but in a humble appeal to him concerning his integrity and honest intention in what he had done, and a believing expectation that he would not be unrighteous to forget his work and labour of love, Heb 6:10. Observe how modest he is in his requests. He only prays, Remember me, not Reward me - Wipe not out my good deeds, not Publish them, Record them. Yet he was rewarded and his good deeds were recorded; for God does more than we are able to ask. Note, Deeds done for the house of God and the offices of it, for the support of religion and the encouragement of it, are good deeds. There is both righteousness and godliness in them, and God will certainly remember them, and not wipe them out; they shall in no wise lose their reward.
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Summary
Nehemiah 13:12 records a pivotal moment of renewed covenant faithfulness among the people of Judah during Nehemiah's second term as governor in Jerusalem. Following a period of significant spiritual decline and neglect of the Temple and its ministers, this verse highlights the community's collective and obedient response to Nehemiah's reforms, as they diligently brought their agricultural tithes of grain, new wine, and oil to the Temple treasuries, thereby restoring vital support for the Levites and the sacred services and demonstrating a profound turning back to God's ordained system of worship and provision.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the final chapter of Nehemiah, which details the governor's second return to Jerusalem after a period in Persia, likely around 433 BC, as indicated by Nehemiah 13:6. Upon his return, Nehemiah discovered a widespread collapse of the covenant reforms he had previously instituted. The people had neglected their duties, specifically failing to provide for the Levites, who, consequently, had abandoned their Temple service to work their own fields, as vividly described in Nehemiah 13:10. Nehemiah's characteristic zeal and righteous indignation led him to confront the officials and the people directly, reminding them of their solemn obligations to God and His house. Nehemiah 13:11 records his forceful rebuke and immediate action to gather the Levites back to their posts. Verse 12 then marks the positive and immediate communal response to this strong leadership, demonstrating a collective willingness by "all Judah" to rectify their previous negligence and restore proper financial and material support for the house of God. This act of tithing is a direct outcome of Nehemiah's decisive intervention, underscoring the powerful theme of restoration after spiritual lapse.
Historical & Cultural Context
The events of Nehemiah 13:12 unfold in post-exilic Jerusalem, a community striving to re-establish its identity and worship practices under Persian imperial oversight. The Temple, recently rebuilt, was the spiritual and social epicenter of Jewish life. The system of tithing was a foundational component of Mosaic Law, established to sustain the Levitical priesthood and ensure the continuous functioning of Temple sacrifices and services. Since the Levites were not allotted a tribal inheritance of land like the other tribes, their livelihood was entirely dependent on the tithes and offerings brought by the rest of Israel. The "corn," "new wine," and "oil" mentioned were the staple agricultural products of ancient Israel, representing the primary forms of wealth derived from the land. The act of bringing these specific commodities to the "treasuries" (storehouses within the Temple complex) reflects the agrarian economy of the time and the prescribed method for collecting and distributing these provisions to the Levites, priests, and for the Temple's operational needs. This system was not merely a financial transaction but a tangible expression of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh, acknowledging His sovereignty and provision over their land and harvests.
Key Themes
Nehemiah 13:12 powerfully illustrates several key themes central to the book of Nehemiah and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Covenant Fidelity and Obedience. The people's act of bringing the tithes signifies a renewed commitment to their covenant obligations after a period of significant spiritual drift. Their obedience was a direct response to Nehemiah's call for repentance and reform, demonstrating the community's capacity for collective spiritual turning. Secondly, the verse underscores the critical importance of Support for Ministry and the House of God. The tithe was the divinely ordained means to provide for the Levites and priests, enabling them to dedicate themselves fully to their sacred duties without being burdened by secular labor. This reflects a timeless principle of ensuring that those who serve God's house are adequately sustained, as seen in Numbers 18:21. Thirdly, the passage speaks to Righteous Leadership and Reform. Nehemiah's unwavering commitment to God's law and his courageous confrontation of sin served as the catalyst for this widespread repentance and restoration of order. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the community back to faithfulness, as evidenced by the immediate communal response. Finally, the act of tithing itself embodies the theme of Stewardship and Trust in God's Provision. By bringing a tenth of their primary produce, the people acknowledged that all their blessings came from God and expressed their trust in His continued sustenance, reinforcing the idea that giving is an act of worship and dependence.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb signifies "to go or come" and, in this context, implies the active, intentional carrying and delivering of the tithes. The use of this word emphasizes the people's direct participation and physical effort in fulfilling their covenant obligations. It highlights a proactive, communal movement towards obedience, contrasting with the previous neglect where the Levites had "fled every one to his field" because provisions were not "brought" (Nehemiah 13:10).
This term refers to a "tenth part," specifically a mandatory offering of agricultural produce (grain, new wine, oil) and livestock, commanded by Mosaic Law (e.g., Leviticus 27:30-32 and Deuteronomy 14:22). Its primary purpose was to provide for the Levites and priests who served in the Temple, as they had no land inheritance, and to support the Temple's operational needs. The re-establishment of this practice in Nehemiah 13:12 signals a return to covenant obedience and proper support for divine worship.
These were designated "depositories" or storehouses within the Temple complex where tithes, offerings, and other consecrated items were kept. Their function was crucial for the organized collection, storage, and distribution of provisions for the priests, Levites, and other Temple personnel. The act of bringing the tithes "unto the treasuries" indicates a proper, systematic, and communal restoration of the Temple's financial and material infrastructure, ensuring that the resources were managed and utilized for their intended sacred purpose, as opposed to the previous disarray.
Verse Breakdown
"Then brought all Judah"
This opening phrase signifies a decisive turning point, emphasizing the collective and unified nature of the response. It was not merely a few individuals, but "all Judah"—representing the entire community of the returned exiles—who participated in this act of obedience. This highlights a widespread spiritual turning and communal commitment to restoring proper worship and support for the Temple, indicating the success of Nehemiah's reform efforts in galvanizing the people. The unity underscores the impact of righteous leadership.
"the tithe"
This specifies the nature of the offering as the divinely mandated tenth portion. It was not a voluntary gift of any amount, but a specific, covenantal obligation. The restoration of the tithe signifies a return to the foundational principles of the Mosaic Law, acknowledging God's ownership of all things and the people's responsibility to honor Him with their firstfruits. This act was a tangible expression of their renewed covenant relationship with Yahweh.
"of the corn and the new wine and the oil"
This details the specific agricultural commodities that constituted the tithe. These were the primary produce of the land (grain, freshly pressed grape juice, and olive oil), representing the fruits of their labor and God's blessing upon their harvests. The mention of these staples underscores the agrarian context of ancient Israel and the practical, tangible nature of their obedience in giving from their core livelihood. It signifies that they were giving from their essential provisions, not merely their surplus.
"unto the treasuries"
This indicates the designated destination for the tithes. The "treasuries" were the Temple storehouses, managed by appointed officials (as Nehemiah had arranged in Nehemiah 13:13). This detail signifies that the giving was not haphazard but organized, systematic, and directed towards the proper channels for the support of the Levites, priests, and the ongoing Temple services. It reflects a restoration of order, accountability, and proper administration within the house of God, vital for its continued functioning.
Literary Devices
Nehemiah 13:12 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message of renewed obedience and restoration. The phrase "corn and the new wine and the oil" serves as a Merism, where two or more contrasting or complementary parts represent a whole. Here, these three staple crops represent the totality of agricultural produce and, by extension, all the blessings derived from the land. This emphasizes the comprehensive nature of their tithing, encompassing all their primary sources of sustenance. There is also an implicit Contrast with the preceding verses, particularly Nehemiah 13:10, which describes the neglect and abandonment of duties by the Levites due to a lack of support. Verse 12 directly reverses this situation, highlighting a dramatic turning point from spiritual decay to renewed faithfulness. The act of bringing the tithes to the "treasuries" can be seen as Metonymy, where the physical location (treasuries) stands for the entire system of Temple support and the re-establishment of proper religious order. Finally, the entire action described in the verse functions as Symbolism. The physical act of tithing is a powerful symbol of the people's renewed covenant fidelity, their trust in God's provision, and their collective commitment to honoring Him and sustaining His work in their midst.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Nehemiah 13:12 stands as a testament to the enduring biblical principles of covenant faithfulness, stewardship, and the communal responsibility to support God's work. The restoration of tithing in Judah was not merely a financial transaction but a profound spiritual act, signifying the people's return to obedience to God's law after a period of spiritual apathy. It underscores the divine design for sustaining those dedicated to ministry, ensuring that the work of God's kingdom can continue unhindered. This principle, established under the Mosaic Covenant, highlights God's expectation that His people would honor Him with their resources, acknowledging His ultimate ownership and provision. The act of giving a tenth was a tangible expression of worship, trust, and dependence on the Lord, reinforcing the idea that true devotion is expressed not only through ritual but also through practical obedience in all areas of life, including finances. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that the health and vitality of a spiritual community are directly linked to the faithfulness of its members in stewarding the resources God has entrusted to them.
Reflection and Application
Nehemiah 13:12 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, challenging us to examine our own commitment to faithful stewardship and communal responsibility in supporting the work of God. Just as the ancient Israelites were called to bring their tithes to the Temple treasuries to sustain the Levites and the sacred services, so too are believers today encouraged to contribute generously to their local churches and ministries. This support is not merely an obligation but a privilege, enabling those called to full-time ministry to dedicate themselves to teaching, preaching, and serving without being unduly burdened by secular employment. The verse reminds us that true spiritual revival often manifests in practical obedience, including how we manage and deploy our financial resources. Our giving should reflect a heart of gratitude for God's provision, a trust in His continued faithfulness, and a desire to see His kingdom advance. It calls us to move beyond mere compliance to a joyful participation in the financial health and mission of our spiritual communities, recognizing that our contributions directly impact the ability of the church to fulfill its divine mandate in the world.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the primary purpose of the tithe in ancient Israel?
The primary purpose of the tithe in ancient Israel, as mandated by the Mosaic Law, was multifaceted. Foremost, it was to provide for the Levites and priests who served in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Since the Levites did not receive a tribal land inheritance, the tithe was their designated livelihood, ensuring they could dedicate themselves fully to their sacred duties (as seen in Numbers 18:21-24). Additionally, parts of the tithe were designated for the maintenance of the Temple, for communal feasts, and for the care of the poor, widows, and orphans (e.g., Deuteronomy 14:28-29). Ultimately, tithing was an act of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty over all creation and His provision for His people.
Is tithing still a direct command for Christians today?
While the specific legalistic requirements of the Old Testament tithe (e.g., bringing agricultural produce to the Temple treasuries) are not directly re-instituted for New Testament believers, the underlying principles of generous, systematic, and joyful giving are strongly affirmed. The New Testament emphasizes giving out of love, grace, and cheerfulness, rather than compulsion or legal obligation (2 Corinthians 9:7). Believers are encouraged to support those who minister the Gospel (1 Corinthians 9:13-14), to contribute to the needs of the poor, and to fund the spread of the Gospel. Many Christians adopt the tithe (10%) as a practical guideline or starting point for their giving, understanding it as a spiritual discipline and an act of worship that honors God with their "firstfruits" (Proverbs 3:9). The focus shifts from a legalistic percentage to a heart attitude of generous stewardship in response to God's abundant grace.
What does "corn and new wine and oil" represent in this context?
"Corn" (grain), "new wine," and "oil" were the primary agricultural staples and sources of wealth in ancient Israel. They represent the main produce of the land—the literal "fruits" of their labor and the bounty of God's provision. In the context of tithing, their mention signifies that the people were bringing a tenth of their most essential and valuable commodities. This highlights that their obedience was substantial and came from the core of their economic life, not merely from surplus or less valuable goods. These items were also easily stored in the Temple treasuries and distributed to sustain the Levites and priests, ensuring the practical functioning of the Temple system.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Nehemiah 13:12, with its emphasis on the people bringing their tithes to the treasuries, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in Christ. While the Old Testament tithe was a shadow of things to come, a legal requirement to support the Levitical priesthood and the physical Temple, Jesus Christ fulfills the essence of all such offerings. He is the ultimate "firstfruits" from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:20), the perfect and final sacrifice who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). In Him, the need for a physical Temple and a Levitical priesthood to mediate between God and humanity is superseded, as He is the true Temple (John 2:19-21) and our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14). Our giving under the New Covenant is no longer a legalistic requirement of agricultural produce but a joyful, Spirit-empowered response to the immeasurable grace we have received in Christ (2 Corinthians 8:9). We now offer our lives as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), and our material resources are given not to physical treasuries for animal sacrifices, but to support the spread of the Gospel and the building up of the spiritual body of Christ, the Church, which is His dwelling place by the Spirit (Ephesians 2:21-22). The "treasuries" of the New Covenant are the spiritual storehouses of God's grace, empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling the Church to fulfill its mission to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).