Nehemiah 13:2

Nehemiah 13:2 explains one of the historical reasons behind the prohibition against Ammonites and Moabites entering the assembly of God, as referenced in the preceding verse (Nehemiah 13:1). This verse recounts two specific offenses committed by these nations against the children of Israel during their wilderness journey after the Exodus from Egypt.

Historical and Cultural Context

The events described here took place centuries before Nehemiah's time, during the forty years of Israel's wilderness wanderings. As the Israelites approached the promised land, they sought passage through the territories of various nations. The Ammonites and Moabites, despite being related to Israel through Lot, showed extreme hostility. Instead of offering basic human kindness and provisions—"bread and with water"—to a weary multitude, they withheld aid. This lack of hospitality was a grave offense in ancient Near Eastern culture, where welcoming strangers was often a sacred duty.

Furthermore, their malice escalated beyond passive neglect. They actively sought to harm Israel by "hir[ing] Balaam against them, that he should curse them." Balaam was a well-known diviner from Mesopotamia, and the Moabite king Balak famously sought his services to invoke a powerful curse upon the advancing Israelites. This act demonstrated profound animosity and a desire for Israel's destruction through spiritual means.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Sovereignty: The most profound message of this verse is encapsulated in the phrase, "howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing." Despite the malicious intentions and actions of the Ammonites and Moabites, God demonstrated His absolute control over all circumstances. He used a diviner who intended to curse Israel to instead pronounce blessings and prophecies about Israel's future greatness. This narrative is detailed in the book of Numbers, chapters 22-24.
• God's Faithfulness to His Covenant: This act of turning a curse into a blessing underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants. No human or supernatural force could thwart His divine plan for Israel.
• Consequences of Hostility: The historical actions of the Ammonites and Moabites had long-lasting consequences, leading to their exclusion from the Israelite assembly, as stipulated in Deuteronomy 23:3-6. This highlights that actions, good or bad, have repercussions, sometimes for generations.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "turned the curse into a blessing" powerfully conveys God's transformative power. In the Hebrew narrative of Balaam, the word for "curse" (qelalah) and "blessing" (berakah) are in stark contrast, emphasizing the complete reversal of fortune orchestrated by God. Balaam, compelled by God's Spirit, could only utter words of blessing, despite his initial desire and the king's command to curse.

Practical Application

Nehemiah 13:2 serves as a powerful reminder that God is sovereign over all things, even the malevolent plans of adversaries. For believers today, it offers immense comfort and assurance:

• Trust in God's Protection: We can trust that God can turn seemingly negative situations or intentions of others into good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
• God's Unfailing Love: His love and commitment to His people are stronger than any curse or opposition.
• Beware of Malice: It also warns against the dangers of unhospitality and active malice, as such actions can have severe and lasting consequences.