Nehemiah 13:27

KJV

Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God in marrying strange wives?

KJV (with Strong's)

Shall we then hearken {H8085} unto you to do {H6213} all this great {H1419} evil {H7451}, to transgress {H4603} against our God {H430} in marrying {H3427} strange {H5237} wives {H802}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Are we to give in to you and let you continue in this very great evil, breaking faith with our God by marrying foreign women?"

Berean Standard Bible

Must we now hear that you too are doing all this terrible evil and acting unfaithfully against our God by marrying foreign women?”

American Standard Version

Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to trespass against our God in marrying foreign women?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 13:27 captures the governor's impassioned and indignant rebuke to the leaders of Judah concerning their unfaithfulness, specifically their re-engagement in intermarriage with foreign women. This verse is a powerful rhetorical question, through which Nehemiah condemns the practice as a "great evil" and a direct "transgression against our God," highlighting the severe spiritual and covenantal implications of such disobedience in the post-exilic community. It underscores his unwavering commitment to God's law and his profound concern for the spiritual purity and identity of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 13:27 is situated within the final chapter of the Book of Nehemiah, which details the governor's second return to Jerusalem and his subsequent efforts to re-establish the reforms he had previously instituted. After his initial term and return to Persia, Nehemiah discovered that the people had largely abandoned their covenant commitments. The temple was neglected, the Sabbath profaned (as seen in [Nehemiah's actions regarding Sabbath traders](/nehemiah/13-15 "Nehemiah 13:15 - Sabbath Profanation")), and most significantly, the prohibition against intermarriage with foreign peoples had been flagrantly violated. This verse specifically addresses the leaders who had allowed or participated in this "great evil," following Nehemiah's earlier actions to restore temple support for the Levites ([Nehemiah 13:10](/nehemiah/13-10 "Nehemiah 13:10 - Restoration of Levite Support")) and to cleanse the temple of Tobiah's presence ([Nehemiah 13:7-9](/nehemiah/13-7 "Nehemiah 13:7-9 - Tobiah's Chamber in the Temple")). The immediate verses preceding 13:27 describe Nehemiah's direct confrontation with those who had married foreign women, including his severe actions against the grandson of the high priest who had married a daughter of Sanballat ([Nehemiah 13:28](/nehemiah/13-28 "Nehemiah 13:28 - Expulsion of the High Priest's Grandson")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The post-exilic period was a critical time for the returned Jewish community in Judah. Having experienced the Babylonian exile as a consequence of their idolatry and unfaithfulness, the exiles were meant to rebuild not just the walls of Jerusalem and the temple, but also their covenant relationship with Yahweh. The Law, particularly the Pentateuch, explicitly forbade intermarriage with the surrounding pagan nations (e.g., [Deuteronomy 7:3-4](/deuteronomy/7-3 "Deuteronomy 7:3-4 - Prohibition of Intermarriage")). This prohibition was not merely ethnic but primarily religious; the concern was that such unions would lead the Israelites back into idolatry and compromise their distinct identity as God's holy people. The "strange wives" (Hebrew: *nashim nokhriyoth*) were women from these pagan nations, who brought their gods and customs, posing a direct threat to the spiritual purity and monotheistic worship of Israel. Nehemiah's stern stance reflects a deep understanding of Israel's history, where figures like King Solomon were led astray by foreign wives ([1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Foreign Wives and Idolatry")), resulting in national decline and divine judgment.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 13:27 powerfully underscores several key themes central to the book of Nehemiah and the broader Old Testament narrative. First, **Covenant Fidelity and Obedience** are paramount; Nehemiah frames intermarriage not as a social misstep but as a "great evil" and a direct "transgression against our God," emphasizing the spiritual dimension of the command to remain separate from pagan influences. This highlights the absolute necessity of loyalty to God's covenant, which defined Israel's identity and purpose. Second, the theme of **Spiritual Purity and Separation** is evident. The prohibition against intermarriage was fundamentally about preserving the spiritual integrity of the Israelite community and preventing the infiltration of idolatry, which had historically plagued Israel and led to their exile. Nehemiah's question reflects his deep concern for the spiritual health of the returned exiles, reminding them of the warnings in passages like [Ezra 9:1-2](/ezra/9-1 "Ezra's Distress Over Intermarriage"). Third, **Leadership and Accountability** are central to Nehemiah's role. His confrontational tone demonstrates his unwavering commitment to God's law and his role as a righteous leader who holds the people accountable, even those in positions of influence, for their disobedience. He serves as a model of zealous leadership in upholding God's standards.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **great evil (Hebrew, _ra'ah gedolah'_):** The phrase "great evil" signifies not merely a minor infraction but a profound moral and spiritual offense. *Ra'ah* (רָעָה) denotes wickedness, calamity, or harm, while *gedolah* (גְּדֹלָה) means "great" or "large." Together, they emphasize the extreme severity and destructive potential of the act, framing it as a significant violation of divine order and covenant.
* **transgress (Hebrew, _ma'al'_):** The verb *ma'al* (מָעַל) describes an act of unfaithfulness, treachery, or trespass, often specifically against God or sacred things. It implies a breach of trust or a violation of covenant obligations, particularly in matters pertaining to the Lord. It's a strong term indicating spiritual infidelity, not just a simple mistake, but a deliberate act of disloyalty to God.
* **strange wives (Hebrew, _nashim nokhriyoth'_):** This phrase translates literally to "foreign women" or "alien women." The term *nokhriyoth* (נָכְרִיּוֹת) carries a strong connotation of being outside the covenant community, implying not just ethnic difference but, more importantly, religious and cultural alienation from the worship of Yahweh. These were women who did not worship the God of Israel and whose presence threatened to introduce idolatry and pagan practices into the community, diluting Israel's unique identity as God's chosen people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Shall we then hearken unto you":** This is a rhetorical question, expressing Nehemiah's indignant rejection of any suggestion or compromise from those who had engaged in or condoned intermarriage. It implies that to "hearken" (listen or agree) to them would be to betray God and His law. Nehemiah is not asking for an answer but forcefully stating that their actions are unacceptable and cannot be tolerated.
* **"to do all this great evil":** This clause defines the nature and magnitude of the offense. Nehemiah labels the intermarriage as "all this great evil," underscoring its comprehensive wickedness and the profound moral depravity involved. It is not just one evil, but a collection of evils stemming from this single act of disobedience.
* **"to transgress against our God":** This specifies the ultimate target of the transgression. The act of marrying foreign wives is not merely a social or cultural misstep; it is a direct act of unfaithfulness and rebellion against Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. It highlights the spiritual gravity of the offense, emphasizing that it is a breach of the sacred relationship between God and His people.
* **"in marrying strange wives?":** This identifies the specific action that constitutes the "great evil" and the "transgression." The intermarriage with "strange wives" is the concrete manifestation of their unfaithfulness, directly violating God's explicit commands and endangering the spiritual purity and covenant identity of the community.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 13:27 employs several potent literary devices to convey Nehemiah's profound indignation and the severity of the people's transgression. The most prominent is the **Rhetorical Question**, "Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God in marrying strange wives?" This question is not posed to elicit an answer, but to emphatically assert Nehemiah's firm rejection of their actions and to highlight the obvious wrongness of their behavior. It forces the audience to confront the gravity of their choices and implicitly demands a negative response, underscoring the clear moral line that has been crossed. Coupled with this is **Hyperbole**, particularly in the phrase "all this great evil." While the act of intermarriage was indeed a serious violation of the Law, Nehemiah's strong language emphasizes the comprehensive and devastating spiritual consequences, elevating it beyond a simple mistake to a monumental betrayal. Finally, the verse is saturated with **Reproach**, as Nehemiah directly and sternly condemns the actions of the people and their leaders. His tone is accusatory and challenging, reflecting his role as a righteous leader holding his community accountable to God's covenant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 13:27 stands as a stark reminder of the enduring biblical principle that God's people are called to be distinct and holy, set apart from the surrounding world to worship Him alone. The prohibition against intermarriage with pagan nations was not about racial purity but about spiritual integrity, safeguarding Israel from the pervasive influence of idolatry and syncretism that had historically led them astray. This verse underscores that true fidelity to God's covenant demands unwavering obedience in all areas of life, recognizing that compromise in one area can lead to widespread spiritual decay. It highlights the sanctity of God's commands and the severe consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness, serving as a warning against any alliance or practice that threatens to dilute one's devotion to the Lord.

* [Deuteronomy 7:3-4](/deuteronomy/7-3 "Deuteronomy 7:3-4 - God's Command Against Intermarriage")
* [Ezra 9:1-2](/ezra/9-1 "Ezra 9:1-2 - Ezra's Grief Over Intermarriage")
* [1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Idolatry Due to Foreign Wives")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah's impassioned stand against intermarriage, while rooted in the specific covenant context of ancient Israel, offers profound principles for believers today. The underlying concern was spiritual purity and undivided devotion to God. For us, this translates into a call for spiritual discernment and intentionality in all our relationships and choices. While the literal prohibition against marrying outside one's ethnicity is not directly applicable to the New Covenant church, the principle of avoiding spiritual compromise remains vital. We are called to be "unequally yoked" with unbelievers in matters that would compromise our faith or allegiance to Christ, particularly in marriage ([2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")). This means seeking partners who share a genuine faith in Christ and a commitment to His kingdom, ensuring that our closest relationships build us up in our walk with God rather than drawing us away. More broadly, it challenges us to examine any "alliances" or practices in our lives—whether in friendships, business, or cultural engagement—that might subtly lead us to "transgress against our God" by embracing values or pursuits contrary to His Word. Our ultimate allegiance must always be to God, prioritizing His will and the spiritual health of our families and communities above all else.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to compromise my spiritual convictions for the sake of social acceptance or personal gain?**
* **How does Nehemiah's zeal for God's law challenge my own commitment to obedience and spiritual purity?**
* **What "strange influences" (ideas, media, relationships) might be subtly drawing me away from an undivided devotion to Christ, and how can I address them?**
* **How can I ensure that my closest relationships, especially marriage, are built on a foundation of shared faith and mutual commitment to God's will?**

### FAQ

**Why was intermarriage considered such a "great evil" in Nehemiah's time?**

Answer: In the post-exilic period, intermarriage was considered a "great evil" primarily because it posed a direct threat to the spiritual purity and unique identity of the Israelite community. God had explicitly forbidden such unions (e.g., [Deuteronomy 7:3-4](/deuteronomy/7-3 "Deuteronomy 7:3-4 - Prohibition of Intermarriage")) because foreign wives often brought their pagan gods and idolatrous practices into the Israelite households, leading the Israelites to worship other deities. This had been a recurring problem throughout Israel's history, culminating in the exile. Nehemiah and Ezra saw it as a spiritual compromise that would dilute their covenant relationship with Yahweh and lead to a repeat of past national failures, such as those seen in [1 Kings 11:1-8](/1_kings/11-1 "1 Kings 11:1-8 - Solomon's Idolatry Due to Foreign Wives")). It was not about racial discrimination but about preserving the distinct religious and covenantal identity of God's chosen people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah's zealous pursuit of covenant purity and his vehement rejection of "strange wives" find their ultimate fulfillment and spiritual transformation in Christ. While the Old Testament prohibition against marrying foreign women served to preserve the physical lineage and spiritual distinctiveness through which the Messiah would come, the New Testament shifts the focus from ethnic and ceremonial purity to spiritual purity and allegiance to Christ. The Church, as the "bride of Christ" ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ Loves the Church as His Bride")), is called to be "without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but holy and blameless." Christ Himself is the ultimate purifier, who "gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works" ([Titus 2:14](/titus/2-14 "Titus 2:14 - Christ's Purpose to Purify His People")). The "great evil" for believers today is not marrying outside a specific ethnicity, but any spiritual "unequal yoking" ([2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")) that compromises our devotion to God or introduces spiritual idolatry into our lives. Jesus warns against serving two masters ([Matthew 6:24](/matthew/6-24 "Matthew 6:24 - Cannot Serve Two Masters")), and the New Covenant calls us to a radical, undivided allegiance to Him, ensuring that our affections and commitments are solely for the one true God, through the power of the Holy Spirit who indwells us ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Our Bodies Are Temples of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, Nehemiah's passion for a pure people foreshadows Christ's work in sanctifying His Church, making us fit for eternal union with Him.

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

Ezra 10:2

And Shechaniah the son of Jehiel, [one] of the sons of Elam, answered and said unto Ezra, We have trespassed against our God, and have taken strange wives of the people of the land: yet now there is hope in Israel concerning this thing.

1 Samuel 30:24

For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part [is] that goeth down to the battle, so [shall] his part [be] that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.