Nehemiah 3:1

KJV

¶ Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and they builded the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananeel.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then Eliashib {H475} the high {H1419} priest {H3548} rose up {H6965} with his brethren {H251} the priests {H3548}, and they builded {H1129} the sheep {H6629} gate {H8179}; they sanctified {H6942} it, and set up {H5975} the doors {H1817} of it; even unto the tower {H4026} of Meah {H3968} they sanctified {H6942} it, unto the tower {H4026} of Hananeel {H2606}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then Elyashiv the cohen hagadol set out with his fellow cohanim, and they rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set up its doors; they consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred and on to the Tower of Hanan'el.

Berean Standard Bible

At the Sheep Gate, Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests began rebuilding. They dedicated it and installed its doors. After building as far as the Tower of the Hundred and the Tower of Hananel, they dedicated the wall.

American Standard Version

Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and they builded the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even unto the tower of Hammeah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 3:1 initiates the detailed chronicle of Jerusalem's wall reconstruction, immediately spotlighting the indispensable role of spiritual leadership. It meticulously records how Eliashib the high priest, alongside his priestly brethren, commenced the monumental undertaking by building the Sheep Gate. This strategically and symbolically vital entry point was not merely constructed but also consecrated, setting a profound precedent of dedication, spiritual intentionality, and unified effort for the entire community engaged in the sacred task of restoring God's holy city.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 3:1 serves as the precise architectural blueprint's opening, detailing the meticulous rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Following Nehemiah's arrival, his clandestine inspection of the city's dilapidated defenses, and his stirring call to action found in [Nehemiah 2](/nehemiah/2 "Nehemiah's Arrival and Call to Rebuild"), this chapter systematically enumerates the various families, guilds, and individuals who participated, assigning each a specific section of the wall. The narrative's deliberate choice to begin with Eliashib the high priest and the Sheep Gate immediately establishes a profound spiritual and theological foundation for the entire project. This emphasis signifies that the restoration was not merely a feat of civil engineering but a divinely ordained renewal of God's holy city, underscoring the spiritual significance embedded within the physical labor. The subsequent verses continue to itemize the workers and their assigned sections, creating a comprehensive record of collaborative effort and shared responsibility.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Nehemiah unfold in the mid-5th century BCE, a period when Judah was a province under the dominion of the vast Persian Empire. Jerusalem, though inhabited by returning exiles, remained vulnerable and disgraced without its protective walls, a poignant symbol of past judgment and a constant source of shame among surrounding peoples, as poignantly lamented in [Nehemiah 2:17](/nehemiah/2-17 "Nehemiah 2:17 - The Ruined Walls of Jerusalem"). In the ancient Near East, robust city walls were paramount for defense, a tangible expression of civic identity, and crucial for economic prosperity. The high priest, Eliashib, occupied a position of immense religious and civic authority, functioning as the spiritual head of the post-exilic community. His active participation, alongside other priests, in the manual labor of wall reconstruction was an extraordinary demonstration of leadership, transcending purely ritualistic duties. The act of "sanctifying" the gate reflects the deep-seated Jewish belief that all significant undertakings, especially those intimately connected to Jerusalem and the Temple, required divine consecration to be set apart for God's holy purposes and to invoke His blessing.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces and powerfully reinforces several pivotal themes prevalent throughout the book of Nehemiah and the broader post-exilic narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Leadership by Example**, demonstrating that authentic spiritual authority is best exercised through active, hands-on participation in God's work, rather than detached oversight. Eliashib and the priests embody this principle, leading not just by decree but by diligent labor. Secondly, the phrase "rose up with his brethren the priests" immediately underscores the theme of **Unity and Corporate Effort**, emphasizing that the daunting task of rebuilding required the synchronized and collaborative labor of the entire community, commencing with its spiritual leaders. Thirdly, the act of "sanctifying" the Sheep Gate introduces the profound theme of the **Sacredness of Labor for God's Kingdom**. It transforms a practical construction project into an act of worship and dedication, imbuing every aspect of the restoration with spiritual significance. Finally, the immediate focus on the Sheep Gate, likely the primary access point for sacrificial animals to the Temple, symbolizes the **Restoration of Worship and Identity**, signaling a renewed commitment to Israel's spiritual life and its covenant relationship with God, aligning with the broader post-exilic emphasis on rebuilding not just physical structures but also the spiritual fabric of the nation, as seen in the earlier rebuilding of the Temple in [Ezra 3](/ezra/3 "Ezra 3 - Rebuilding the Temple").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Eliashib (Hebrew, _ʼElyâshîyb'_):** From H475, meaning "God will restore" or "God brings back." The high priest's name is remarkably prophetic and fitting for the context of the book of Nehemiah, which chronicles the divine restoration of Jerusalem and its people after the Babylonian exile. As the spiritual head of the community, Eliashib's leadership in the physical rebuilding of the wall underscored the divine hand in the entire restoration process, signaling that God was indeed bringing back and restoring His people and their city. His active involvement set a powerful precedent for the community's participation.
* **Builded (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** From H1129, a primitive root meaning "to build (literally and figuratively); (begin to) build(-er), obtain children, make, repair, set (up), [idiom] surely." This verb describes the fundamental action undertaken by the priests. It signifies not merely construction but also restoration and establishment. The act of "building" the Sheep Gate was the tangible manifestation of their commitment and the initial step in the comprehensive renewal of Jerusalem's defenses, representing the foundational work required for the city's security and spiritual re-establishment.
* **Sanctified (Hebrew, _qâdash'_):** From H6942, a primitive root meaning "to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally); appoint, bid, consecrate, dedicate, defile, hallow, (be, keep) holy(-er, place), keep, prepare, proclaim, purify, sanctify(-ied one, self), [idiom] wholly." This verb signifies the act of setting something apart, consecrating it, or making it holy, thereby dedicating it exclusively to God's service or purposes. When the priests "sanctified" the Sheep Gate, they were performing a profound act of dedication, acknowledging God's ownership and blessing over the work. This act transformed a practical construction project into a holy endeavor, emphasizing that the physical restoration of Jerusalem was fundamentally a spiritual act of worship and obedience.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests":** This clause immediately establishes the leadership and active participation of the spiritual authorities. The phrase "rose up" indicates initiative, readiness for action, and a proactive stance, not merely passive supervision. The inclusion of "his brethren the priests" highlights a unified effort among the clergy, setting a powerful example of corporate responsibility and shared labor for the entire community. It underscores that spiritual leadership involves practical, often physically demanding, service.
* **"and they builded the sheep gate":** This specifies the initial focus of their labor. The Sheep Gate was chosen first due to its strategic importance for the Temple and its profound symbolic connection to worship and the sacrificial system. Its construction was a tangible first step in the massive undertaking, demonstrating a clear prioritization of foundational and spiritually significant elements of the city's infrastructure and spiritual life.
* **"they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it":** The act of "sanctifying" the gate immediately after its construction emphasizes the spiritual dimension of the work. It signifies consecration, setting it apart for holy use and divine blessing. The subsequent installation of doors implies completion and functionality, providing essential security and controlled access. This dual action—building and consecrating—underscores that the physical restoration was inseparable from its spiritual purpose and divine favor.
* **"even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananeel":** This clause precisely defines the specific section of the wall for which the priests were responsible, indicating a precise division of labor that characterized the entire rebuilding effort. The repetition of "they sanctified it" powerfully reinforces the pervasive spiritual nature of the entire rebuilding effort. It suggests that not just the gate itself, but the entire segment of the wall they constructed, was dedicated to God, affirming that all work done for His kingdom is to be consecrated and set apart for His glory.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 3:1 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its profound message and underscore the significance of the rebuilding effort. **Emphasis through Placement** is immediately evident, as the verse intentionally places the high priest and the Sheep Gate at the very beginning of the detailed list of builders. This strategic positioning signals their paramount importance and the spiritual significance that undergirded the entire endeavor. The device of **Repetition** is also powerfully used with the phrase "they sanctified it," which appears twice within the verse. This repetition serves to underscore the sacred nature of the work, highlighting that the physical act of building was inextricably linked to spiritual consecration and divine purpose. Furthermore, the mention of the **Sheep Gate** can be seen as a form of **Synecdoche**, where a part (the gate) represents the whole (the entire wall rebuilding project), especially given its symbolic importance as the first section completed and consecrated. This initial focus on a specific, vital component serves to encapsulate the spirit of dedication and divine blessing that was to characterize the entire restoration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 3:1 lays a foundational theological principle: all work undertaken for God's kingdom, especially that which restores His people and their spiritual vitality, must be initiated by spiritual leadership and consecrated to Him. The active participation of the high priest and priests demonstrates that true spiritual authority is not aloof but deeply engaged in the practical, often laborious, service of God's purposes. This verse emphasizes that physical labor, when performed with intentional dedication to God, transcends the mundane and becomes a holy act of worship. It highlights the necessity of unity and collaboration within the community of faith, where diverse individuals and groups contribute their efforts to a common, divinely appointed goal. The consecration of the Sheep Gate also underscores the importance of restoring the means of worship and access to God as a primary step in any spiritual renewal, establishing a spiritual foundation for physical security.

* [Exodus 40:9](/exodus/40-9 "Exodus 40:9 - Consecration of the Tabernacle")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12 - The Body of Christ")
* [Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23 - Working Heartily for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 3:1 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, challenging us to consider how we approach our own work and leadership within the context of God's kingdom. The exemplary conduct of Eliashib and the priests reminds us that spiritual leadership is not merely about preaching or teaching, but about actively engaging in practical service, leading by example, and rolling up our sleeves to participate in the often-challenging work of restoration and building. This verse calls us to recognize that all our labor, whether in our vocations, homes, or ministries, can be "sanctified"—set apart and dedicated to God's glory. When we offer our efforts to Him, our work transcends the mundane and becomes an act of worship, imbued with divine purpose and blessing. Furthermore, the collaborative effort of the priests and the subsequent builders underscores the critical importance of unity and shared responsibility within the body of Christ. Great endeavors for God's kingdom are rarely accomplished by individuals alone but require the concerted, unified efforts of many, each contributing their unique part. We are also prompted to consider what "gates" in our own lives, families, or communities—foundational areas of spiritual significance or vulnerability—need our immediate attention, rebuilding, and consecration to the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the example of Eliashib and his brethren challenge our modern understanding of spiritual leadership and service?**
* **In what specific areas of your life or work can you intentionally "sanctify" your efforts by dedicating them to God's purposes?**
* **What "gates" or foundational areas in your personal spiritual life, family, or community need rebuilding, restoration, and consecration to the Lord?**
* **How can you better foster unity and collaboration with others in your church or community to accomplish God's work more effectively?**

### FAQ
**Why did the priests begin with the Sheep Gate, and what was its significance?**

Answer: The priests began with the Sheep Gate for both practical and profound symbolic reasons. Practically, it was likely located near the Temple, making it a crucial entry point for sheep brought for sacrificial purposes. Its immediate repair ensured proper access for the rituals central to Jewish worship. Symbolically, the Sheep Gate was immensely significant because it directly related to the sacrificial system and the spiritual life of the nation. By rebuilding and sanctifying this gate first, the priests were signaling that the restoration of Jerusalem was fundamentally about the restoration of worship and the people's relationship with God. It was a declaration that spiritual priorities would lead the physical rebuilding, ensuring that the city's renewed security would serve its ultimate purpose as a holy dwelling place for God's people and His presence, foreshadowing the ultimate access to God through Christ, the [Gate for the sheep](/john/10-7-9 "John 10:7-9 - Jesus, the Gate for the Sheep"). This strategic choice underscored the spiritual foundation upon which the entire city was to be re-established, emphasizing that the physical walls were to protect a community dedicated to God.

**What does it mean that the priests "sanctified" the gate, and why was this important?**

Answer: To "sanctify" (Hebrew: _qâdash_) the gate meant to set it apart, consecrate it, or make it holy for God's exclusive use and purposes. This was far more than a simple dedication ceremony; it was an act that imbued the physical structure with spiritual significance. By sanctifying the Sheep Gate, the priests were declaring that this portion of the wall, and by extension the entire rebuilding effort, was under God's ownership, blessing, and protection. It was important because it transformed a secular construction project into a sacred endeavor, an act of worship. This act acknowledged God's sovereignty over their work and sought His divine favor for its success. It also served to remind the community that the rebuilding of Jerusalem was not just about physical security but about re-establishing a holy city for a holy people, dedicated to the Lord. This spiritual consecration underscored the profound theological dimension of Nehemiah's mission, echoing the divine command for holiness throughout scripture, as seen in [Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah 3:1, with its account of the high priest and priests rebuilding and sanctifying the Sheep Gate, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. The Sheep Gate, the primary entry point for sacrificial animals, powerfully foreshadows Jesus as the ultimate [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). He is also the [Good Shepherd](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus the Good Shepherd") who enters through the gate to lay down His life for His sheep, becoming the very "gate" through whom we find salvation and abundant life ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus is the Gate")). The high priest Eliashib's leadership in this physical restoration points to Jesus as our [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), who not only intercedes for us but also actively leads His people in spiritual rebuilding and restoration. Through His perfect sacrifice, Jesus "sanctified" us, setting us apart as holy and consecrated to God ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Sanctified Through Christ's Sacrifice")), making us living stones in the spiritual temple that is His Church ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House")). The unified effort of the priests and the people in rebuilding the wall beautifully illustrates the collaborative work of the body of Christ, where diverse members, empowered by the Spirit, build up one another in love under the headship of Christ, our Chief Cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ the Cornerstone of the Church")). Thus, Nehemiah 3:1, while detailing a physical restoration, ultimately points to the greater spiritual restoration and new creation accomplished through Jesus Christ.

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

Nehemiah 12:39

And from above the gate of Ephraim, and above the old gate, and above the fish gate, and the tower of Hananeel, and the tower of Meah, even unto the sheep gate: and they stood still in the prison gate.

Jeremiah 31:38

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that the city shall be built to the LORD from the tower of Hananeel unto the gate of the corner.

John 5:2

Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep [market] a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.

Zechariah 14:10

All the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Rimmon south of Jerusalem: and it shall be lifted up, and inhabited in her place, from Benjamin's gate unto the place of the first gate, unto the corner gate, and [from] the tower of Hananeel unto the king's winepresses.

Nehemiah 13:28

And [one] of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, [was] son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.

Nehemiah 3:32

And between the going up of the corner unto the sheep gate repaired the goldsmiths and the merchants.

Proverbs 3:9

Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: