Nehemiah 3:17

KJV

After him repaired the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani. Next unto him repaired Hashabiah, the ruler of the half part of Keilah, in his part.

KJV (with Strong's)

After {H310} him repaired {H2388} the Levites {H3881}, Rehum {H7348} the son {H1121} of Bani {H1137}. Next unto him {H3027} repaired {H2388} Hashabiah {H2811}, the ruler {H8269} of the half {H2677} part {H6418} of Keilah {H7084}, in his part {H6418}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After him the L'vi'im made repairs: Rechum the son of Bani; next to him Hashavyah, leader of half the district of Ke'ilah, made repairs for his district.

Berean Standard Bible

Next to him, the Levites made repairs under Rehum son of Bani, and next to him, Hashabiah, ruler of a half-district of Keilah, made repairs for his district.

American Standard Version

After him repaired the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani. Next unto him repaired Hashabiah, the ruler of half the district of Keilah, for his district.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 3:17 continues the meticulous enumeration of individuals and groups dedicated to rebuilding Jerusalem's walls, specifically highlighting the contributions of the Levites, represented by Rehum the son of Bani, and Hashabiah, a regional ruler from Keilah. This verse underscores the widespread commitment from diverse segments of post-exilic Jewish society—from those traditionally associated with temple service to local administrators—all united in the arduous yet vital task of restoring the physical defenses and, by extension, the identity and security of the holy city.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah chapter 3 is a unique and detailed architectural and sociological record, meticulously listing every individual, family, and guild involved in the monumental task of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. It reads like a project management report, moving systematically around the city's perimeter, detailing who repaired which section, often noting their specific gate or tower. Verse 17 fits seamlessly into this comprehensive roster, following the repairs made by the inhabitants of Keilah and preceding further sections repaired by other Levites and civic leaders. This precise enumeration emphasizes the organized nature of the work under Nehemiah's leadership and the widespread participation from various social strata, demonstrating a collective commitment to the restoration of the city's defenses.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls occurred during the post-exilic period, specifically around 445 BC, under the leadership of Nehemiah, who had secured a commission from Artaxerxes I of Persia. For the returning exiles, the ruined walls symbolized their vulnerability, shame, and lack of identity. Rebuilding them was not merely a construction project but a profound act of national and spiritual restoration, signifying security, renewed covenant identity, and a visible declaration of God's faithfulness. The involvement of "Levites" (a priestly tribe, usually focused on temple duties) and "rulers" (local administrators like Hashabiah from Keilah, a town southwest of Jerusalem) highlights that this endeavor transcended traditional roles, requiring the unified effort of the entire community, from religious leaders to civic authorities and common laborers.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within the broader scope of Nehemiah 3, powerfully illustrates several key themes foundational to the book and applicable to God's people. Firstly, it exemplifies **Communal Effort and Unity**, demonstrating that significant undertakings for God's kingdom are accomplished not by a few, but through the united labor of many diverse individuals, echoing the principle of the [body of Christ, where many members contribute](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12 - The Body of Christ"). Secondly, it highlights **Shared Responsibility and Specific Tasks**, as each person or group was assigned a distinct "part" of the wall, emphasizing accountability and the value of every contribution, no matter how small or large. This division of labor ensured efficiency and comprehensive coverage. Finally, the continuous listing of names and their specific contributions underscores the themes of **Diligence and Dedication** to God's work, showcasing the unwavering commitment required to overcome immense challenges and opposition, as seen throughout [Nehemiah's account](/nehemiah/4 "Nehemiah 4 - Opposition to the Rebuilding").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Repaired (Hebrew, חָזַק, _chazaq'_):** This verb, used extensively throughout Nehemiah 3, means "to be strong," "to strengthen," "to seize," "to make firm," or "to repair with strength." It implies more than simple mending; it denotes a robust, determined, and forceful restoration. The use of _chazaq_ emphasizes the strenuous effort, the deep commitment, and the quality of the work performed, highlighting that the walls were not merely patched but made secure and formidable once again. It speaks to the resilience and resolve of the builders.
* **Levites (Hebrew, לֵוִי, _Levi'_):** The Levites were descendants of Levi, one of Jacob's sons, and were designated for service to God in the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Their primary duties included assisting the priests, maintaining the sanctuary, teaching the Law, and leading worship. Their participation in the physical labor of rebuilding the wall signifies a broader commitment to the restoration of Jerusalem beyond their traditional spiritual duties. It underscores that all segments of society, regardless of their usual vocations, contributed to this vital national and spiritual endeavor.
* **Ruler (Hebrew, שַׂר, _sar'_):** This term denotes a prince, chief, captain, or leader. Hashabiah, as the "ruler of the half part of Keilah," held a position of authority and responsibility over a specific district. His involvement, alongside the Levites and other common laborers, illustrates that leadership was not exempt from physical toil and that those in positions of power were expected to contribute directly to the communal effort. It speaks to a shared sense of ownership and accountability across all social strata.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"After him repaired the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani."**: This clause indicates a sequential progression around the wall, with the Levites taking their turn immediately after the previously mentioned group. The specific mention of "Rehum the son of Bani" personalizes the collective effort, showing that even within a tribal group like the Levites, individuals were recognized for their direct contribution. This highlights the broad participation of various societal groups, including those typically associated with religious service, in the physical reconstruction of the city.
* **"Next unto him repaired Hashabiah, the ruler of the half part of Keilah, in his part."**: This continues the meticulous record, identifying another key individual, Hashabiah, and his specific role as a "ruler." His geographic association with "the half part of Keilah" (suggesting administrative division within the town) indicates that people from surrounding regions also came to contribute to Jerusalem's restoration. The phrase "in his part" is crucial, reinforcing the principle of assigned responsibility and the division of labor, where each individual or group was accountable for a specific section of the wall, ensuring comprehensive and efficient progress.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 3:17, as part of the larger chapter, predominantly employs **Enumeration** and **Cataloging**. The entire chapter functions as a detailed roster, meticulously listing names, family lineages, professional groups, and geographical origins of the individuals involved in the rebuilding. This exhaustive listing serves to emphasize the sheer scale of the undertaking and the widespread participation, ensuring that no one's contribution is overlooked. The repetition of the verb "repaired" (or its derivatives) throughout the chapter, a form of **Anaphora**, creates a rhythmic and persistent emphasis on the continuous, diligent work being done. Furthermore, the mention of specific locations like "Keilah" and the division into "half parts" demonstrates **Specificity** and **Precision**, lending credibility to the historical account and highlighting the organized nature of the project. The wall itself serves as a powerful **Symbol** of security, identity, and the restoration of God's people, making the physical act of rebuilding a deeply spiritual and communal endeavor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 3:17, embedded within the chapter's meticulous record, underscores profound theological truths about communal service and divine work. It demonstrates that God's great purposes are often achieved through the collective, diligent efforts of His diverse people, each contributing their unique "part." The participation of Levites (religious functionaries) and rulers (civic leaders) alongside ordinary citizens illustrates that all callings and positions are valuable in the kingdom of God, and true service transcends traditional boundaries. This collaborative spirit, marked by shared responsibility and unity of purpose, is essential for any significant spiritual "building" project, whether it be church growth, community outreach, or personal spiritual formation. It teaches that every individual's contribution, however seemingly small, is vital and recognized by God.

* [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ, Many Members")
* [Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11 "Ephesians 4:11-16 - Equipping the Saints for Ministry")
* [Romans 12:4-8](/romans/12-4 "Romans 12:4-8 - Spiritual Gifts and Service")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account in Nehemiah 3, including verse 17, offers timeless lessons for believers today. It challenges us to consider our own "part" in the ongoing work of God's kingdom. Just as the Levites and rulers worked alongside common laborers, every member of the body of Christ is called to contribute their gifts, time, and resources to the building up of the church and the advancement of the gospel. This chapter reminds us that unity in purpose, shared responsibility, and diligent effort are crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving God-given visions. We are called to be active participants, not passive spectators, in the restoration and strengthening of spiritual "walls" in our communities, families, and personal lives. The perseverance of these ancient builders, despite the daunting task and external opposition, inspires us to commit fully to the spiritual "rebuilding" work that God has called us to, trusting that He empowers and uses every faithful hand.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "part" or specific contribution am I currently making to the work of God's kingdom, whether in my church or community?**
* **How can I better recognize and affirm the diverse contributions of others within my spiritual community, fostering a greater sense of unity and shared purpose?**
* **What "walls" (e.g., in my character, relationships, or community) need spiritual "repair" or strengthening, and what concrete steps can I take to begin that work?**

### FAQ
**Why is Nehemiah 3 so detailed with names and specific sections of the wall?**

Answer: Nehemiah 3's meticulous detail serves several crucial purposes. Firstly, it provides a historical and verifiable record, underscoring the authenticity of the rebuilding project. Secondly, it highlights the principle of accountability; each person or group was responsible for a specific "part," ensuring that the entire wall was covered. Thirdly, it emphasizes the communal effort: the sheer number of names from diverse backgrounds (priests, Levites, rulers, guilds, families, and even women) demonstrates that the rebuilding was a collective endeavor, not the work of a few individuals. This detail also serves as a testament to God's ability to mobilize His people for a common goal, recognizing and valuing every single contribution. It's a powerful reminder that God sees and remembers the faithful service of all His servants, from the most prominent leader to the humblest laborer.

**What was the significance of the Levites participating in the physical labor of wall building, given their usual religious duties?**

Answer: The participation of the Levites in the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, as seen in Nehemiah 3:17 and other verses, is highly significant. Traditionally, Levites were dedicated to sacred service in the Temple, assisting the priests, maintaining the sanctuary, and teaching the Law. Their involvement in this arduous construction project demonstrates that the restoration of Jerusalem was a holistic endeavor, encompassing not only spiritual revival but also physical security and national identity. It shows a unified commitment from all segments of society, transcending traditional vocational boundaries. It underscores that in times of great need, all of God's people are called to contribute their strength and skills, even if it means stepping outside their usual roles, for the common good and the glory of God. It highlights the total dedication of the community to the Lord's work.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The physical rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls in Nehemiah, with its meticulous detail of diverse individuals contributing their "part," finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the spiritual building of God's eternal kingdom and the Church. While the wall provided temporal security for the post-exilic community, Christ Himself is the ultimate foundation and security for His people. Just as the Levites and rulers worked alongside common laborers, the Church, as the body of Christ, is comprised of diverse members, each gifted and called to contribute their unique "part" to the spiritual edifice that Christ is building ([1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - The Body of Christ, Many Members")). The diligent, unified effort to restore Jerusalem foreshadows the work of Christ, who declared, "I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Christ Builds His Church")). The physical wall, a symbol of protection and identity, points to Christ as the cornerstone upon whom the entire spiritual temple is built, a dwelling place for God by the Spirit ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ the Cornerstone of the Church")). Ultimately, the restoration of Jerusalem's earthly walls anticipates the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city, where God dwells eternally with His people, a city whose walls are salvation and whose gates are praise, secured not by human hands but by the finished work of the Lamb of God ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Jerusalem Descends")).

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

Joshua 15:44

And Keilah, and Achzib, and Mareshah; nine cities with their villages:

1 Samuel 23:1

¶ Then they told David, saying, Behold, the Philistines fight against Keilah, and they rob the threshingfloors.

1 Samuel 23:13

Then David and his men, [which were] about six hundred, arose and departed out of Keilah, and went whithersoever they could go. And it was told Saul that David was escaped from Keilah; and he forbare to go forth.

1 Chronicles 23:4

Of which, twenty and four thousand [were] to set forward the work of the house of the LORD; and six thousand [were] officers and judges:

Nehemiah 3:16

After him repaired Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, the ruler of the half part of Bethzur, unto [the place] over against the sepulchres of David, and to the pool that was made, and unto the house of the mighty.