Nehemiah 3:29

KJV

After them repaired Zadok the son of Immer over against his house. After him repaired also Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah, the keeper of the east gate.

KJV (with Strong's)

After {H310} them repaired {H2388} Zadok {H6659} the son {H1121} of Immer {H564} over against his house {H1004}. After {H310} him repaired {H2388} also Shemaiah {H8098} the son {H1121} of Shechaniah {H7935}, the keeper {H8104} of the east {H4217} gate {H8179}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After them Tzadok the son of Immer made repairs opposite his house. After him Sh'ma'yah the son of Sh'khanyah, the keeper of the East Gate, made repairs.

Berean Standard Bible

Next to them, Zadok son of Immer made repairs opposite his house, and next to him, Shemaiah son of Shecaniah, the guard of the East Gate, made repairs.

American Standard Version

After them repaired Zadok the son of Immer over against his own house. And after him repaired Shemaiah the son of Shecaniah, the keeper of the east gate.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 3:29 meticulously records the contributions of Zadok, son of Immer, who diligently repaired a section of Jerusalem's wall "over against his house," and Shemaiah, son of Shechaniah, distinguished as "the keeper of the east gate." This verse, embedded within the comprehensive roll call of Nehemiah 3, powerfully illustrates the widespread, unified, and personally invested effort of the returned exiles to restore their beloved city's vital defenses, securing its identity and future.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 3 stands as a unique and detailed administrative report, serving as a comprehensive register of the diverse individuals, families, and occupational guilds who collaboratively participated in the monumental reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls. The chapter systematically progresses around the city, beginning from the Sheep Gate and moving counter-clockwise, meticulously listing each section of the wall and the specific groups responsible for its repair. Nehemiah 3:29 falls within the latter portion of this detailed inventory, specifically addressing contributions to the eastern and northern segments of the wall, notably in the vicinity of the significant East Gate. The recurring phrase "after them" or "after him" throughout the chapter emphasizes the continuous, organized, and deeply collaborative nature of the undertaking, highlighting that the entire community—from priests and nobles to common laborers, merchants, and even women—played an integral role in this crucial national endeavor. This meticulous record functions not only as an administrative ledger but also as a profound testament to the unity, dedication, and shared vision of the people under Nehemiah's inspired leadership.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in Nehemiah 3 unfolded during the post-exilic period, approximately 445 BCE, while Judah was under the dominion of the vast Persian Empire. Although Jewish exiles had returned to Jerusalem following the decrees of Cyrus and Artaxerxes, the city's walls had remained in ruins for over a century, leaving it vulnerable to external threats and undermining its identity as the holy city and center of Jewish life. The "East Gate," specifically mentioned in this verse, held immense significance as a major entrance to Jerusalem, often associated with the Temple precinct and imbued with profound eschatological and messianic expectations, as vividly portrayed in Ezekiel's vision of God's glory returning through this very gate (see [Ezekiel 43:1-4](/ezekiel/43-1-4 "Ezekiel 43:1-4 - The Glory of God Enters the Temple by the East Gate")). "Zadok the son of Immer" indicates a connection to a prominent priestly lineage, as the Immer family was a well-known priestly house that returned from exile (see [Ezra 2:37](/ezra/2-37 "Ezra 2:37 - Priestly Families Returning from Exile")). The practice of individuals repairing "over against his house" was a common and practical approach, fostering personal investment and efficiency by assigning responsibility for the section of the wall closest to one's own dwelling. The role of a "gatekeeper" was exceptionally vital for urban security, controlling access, regulating commerce, and maintaining civic order, thereby signifying a position of considerable trust and responsibility within the community.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 3:29, situated within the broader context of the wall's reconstruction, powerfully contributes to several overarching themes central to the book of Nehemiah. Firstly, it vividly illustrates the theme of **Shared Responsibility and Unity**, demonstrating how an enormous and seemingly insurmountable task was successfully accomplished through the collective, harmonious effort of an entire community. Every individual's contribution, regardless of their social status or specific skill set, was deemed vital and recognized. The detailed enumeration of names throughout the chapter underscores the inherent dignity and importance of each participant's labor. Secondly, the verse highlights **Personal Ownership and Diligence**, particularly through Zadok's act of repairing "over against his house," which exemplifies the profound principle that genuine progress often begins when individuals take direct responsibility for their immediate environment and sphere of influence. Similarly, Shemaiah's role as "keeper of the east gate" further emphasizes the importance of diligence and faithfulness in one's specific, assigned duties, ensuring both security and order. Finally, the entire rebuilding project carries profound **Spiritual Significance of Physical Labor**. The restoration of Jerusalem's physical walls was far more than a civil engineering feat; it was an act of profound faith, obedience, and national restoration, absolutely essential for the community's security, the re-establishment of their identity, and their ability to worship God safely and freely within a consecrated city. This monumental act of rebuilding ultimately culminated in the joyful dedication of the wall, accompanied by great celebration and thanksgiving, as recorded in [Nehemiah 12:27](/nehemiah/12-27 "Nehemiah 12:27 - Dedication of the Wall of Jerusalem"). The people's collective "heart to work," explicitly mentioned in [Nehemiah 4:6](/nehemiah/4-6 "Nehemiah 4:6 - The People Had a Heart to Work"), was a direct and powerful outcome of this unified, faith-driven commitment.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **repaired (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** This verb (חָזַק) is a foundational term in Nehemiah 3, appearing repeatedly to describe the work on the wall. While often translated as "repaired," its core meaning is "to fasten upon," "to seize," "to be strong," "to strengthen," "to make firm," or even "to encourage." In this context, it implies far more than mere mending or patching; it denotes a robust, enduring restoration. The builders were not simply fixing a broken wall but making it secure, resilient, and structurally sound against future threats. This linguistic nuance suggests a deep commitment to a lasting work, reflecting both immense physical effort and unwavering spiritual resolve. The repeated use of _châzaq_ throughout the chapter emphasizes the arduous yet determined nature of the task and the collective strength and resolve of the community.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** This noun (בָּיִת) refers to a "house" in its broadest sense, encompassing a dwelling, a family, a household, or even a temple or palace. In Nehemiah 3:29, the phrase "over against his house" (literally "opposite his house") signifies Zadok's personal dwelling. This detail highlights the practical and personal nature of the rebuilding effort, where individuals took direct responsibility for the section of the wall immediately adjacent to their own property. It underscores the concept of localized ownership and accountability, which was crucial for the efficient and thorough completion of such a massive communal project.
* **keeper (Hebrew, _shâmar'_):** The word (שָׁמַר) means "to hedge about (as with thorns)," and thus "to guard," "to protect," "to attend to," or "to preserve." In the context of a city gate, the "keeper" or "watchman" was an exceptionally vital figure, entrusted with the responsibility of protecting, preserving, and overseeing something of immense value—in this case, the security and controlled access of the city. This role required constant vigilance, unwavering trustworthiness, and a keen sense of responsibility, highlighting Shemaiah's significant and specialized position within the community's restoration efforts.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"After them repaired Zadok the son of Immer over against his house."**: This clause continues the meticulous sequential listing of contributors, indicating that Zadok's work on the wall immediately followed that of the individuals previously mentioned in the chapter. Zadok is identified by his father, Immer, a name associated with a prominent priestly family (as seen in [1 Chronicles 9:12](/1_chronicles/9-12 "1 Chronicles 9:12 - Priests and Levites in Jerusalem") and [Ezra 2:37](/ezra/2-37 "Ezra 2:37 - Priestly Families Returning from Exile")), suggesting that even those of high religious standing and social prominence participated directly in the manual labor of reconstruction. The phrase "over against his house" is highly significant, indicating that Zadok took personal responsibility for the section of the wall directly opposite or adjacent to his own dwelling. This principle of personal ownership and localized responsibility was a key factor in the efficient and thorough completion of the massive rebuilding project, underscoring the idea that individuals are often most effective when they focus their efforts on their immediate sphere of influence.
* **"After him repaired also Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah, the keeper of the east gate."**: Following Zadok's contribution, Shemaiah is named as another crucial participant. His specific title, "the keeper of the east gate," is profoundly significant. The East Gate was one of Jerusalem's most important entrances, particularly due to its direct proximity to the Temple area and its immense symbolic importance (e.g., Ezekiel's vision of the glory of the Lord entering through the East Gate in [Ezekiel 43:1-4](/ezekiel/43-1-4 "Ezekiel 43:1-4 - The Glory of God Enters the Temple by the East Gate")). Shemaiah's role involved not just repairing a section of the wall but specifically restoring and maintaining the functionality and security of this critical city entrance. This highlights the diverse skill sets and specialized roles required for the project, from general laborers to specialized gatekeepers, all working in concert towards a common goal.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 3:29, as an integral part of its broader chapter, skillfully employs several key literary devices. The most prominent is **Cataloging** or **Listing**, as the entire chapter functions as a meticulous enumeration of individuals, families, and their precise contributions to the rebuilding effort. This exhaustive list not only emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the community's participation but also highlights the systematic and organized approach to the project, ensuring that every participant's contribution is acknowledged and underscoring the collective effort. The repeated phrase "after them" or "after him" functions as a form of **Anaphora** and **Repetition**, creating a rhythmic and cumulative effect that underscores the continuous, sequential, and collaborative nature of the work. This repetition powerfully reinforces the idea that the task was a relay race, with each group seamlessly taking over from the last, demonstrating unity and sustained effort. Furthermore, the physical rebuilding of the walls serves as a profound **Symbolism** and **Metaphor** for the spiritual restoration and renewal of the community. The secure walls represent not only physical protection but also the re-establishment of Jerusalem's sacred identity as the holy city, the re-institution of proper worship, and the restoration of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The specific mention of the "east gate" carries additional symbolic weight, often associated with divine presence, future messianic hope, and the entry of God's glory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 3:29, as an integral part of the grand narrative of the wall's reconstruction, profoundly illustrates God's method of working through His people. It reveals that God's great purposes are often achieved not through a single heroic figure alone, but through the unified, diligent, and often seemingly mundane efforts of many individuals, each contributing faithfully within their unique sphere of influence. The theological implication is that every believer is called to participate in God's kingdom work, and every contribution, no matter how seemingly small or localized ("over against his house"), is vital, recognized, and valued by God. The meticulous record in Nehemiah 3 suggests that God values human labor, organization, and personal commitment when it is directed towards His glory and the good of His people. The restoration of the physical walls was a tangible expression of spiritual renewal and a necessary step for the community to live out its covenant identity and worship God securely. This communal effort powerfully foreshadows the New Testament concept of the church as a spiritual building, constructed by many hands, yet divinely empowered and unified in purpose.

* [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built Together into a Holy Temple")
* [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - Many Members, One Body")
* [Philippians 2:12-13](/philippians/2-12-13 "Philippians 2:12-13 - Work Out Your Salvation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 3:29 offers timeless lessons for believers today, encouraging us to consider our indispensable role in God's ongoing work in the world. Just as Zadok repaired "over against his house," we are profoundly called to embrace personal ownership and diligent stewardship within our immediate spheres of influence—our families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and local churches. This verse powerfully reminds us that significant collective achievements are invariably built upon countless individual acts of faithfulness and obedience. No contribution is too small or insignificant in God's economy; whether we are in a visible leadership role or serving diligently behind the scenes like a gatekeeper, our efforts are valuable, necessary, and recognized for the flourishing of the community and the advancement of God's kingdom. The remarkable unity demonstrated by the diverse groups in Nehemiah 3 challenges us to lay aside personal agendas and work collaboratively, leveraging our unique gifts, talents, and positions for a shared, God-given vision, recognizing that "many hands make light work" and that a united front is an unassailable one against spiritual opposition.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where is your "house" or "gate" – your specific sphere of influence – that God is calling you to "repair" or diligently serve within your community or church?**
* **How can you better recognize and value the contributions of others, especially those who serve in less visible roles, within your spiritual community?**
* **What collective "wall" or spiritual endeavor is God calling your church or community to build, and what is your unique and vital part in that work?**
* **In what ways can you cultivate a "heart to work" for God's purposes, even when the task seems daunting, mundane, or requires significant personal sacrifice?**

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

Answer: The meticulous detail in Nehemiah 3 serves several important purposes. First, it highlights the comprehensive and inclusive nature of the rebuilding effort, demonstrating that virtually the entire community participated, from priests and nobles to common laborers, women, and even specialized craftsmen like perfumers and goldsmiths. This level of detail underscores the profound unity and shared responsibility that characterized the project. Second, it serves as an invaluable historical record, giving specific credit and recognition to each individual and family for their distinct contribution, thereby emphasizing accountability and honoring the dignity of their labor. Third, it illustrates the highly organized and systematic approach taken by Nehemiah, assigning specific segments of the wall to different groups, which was absolutely crucial for managing such a massive undertaking efficiently and effectively. Finally, from a theological perspective, it powerfully demonstrates God's meticulous attention to His people's efforts and His valuing of every contribution made in obedience to His call, reinforcing the profound idea that no act of service for His kingdom is overlooked or forgotten. The comprehensive nature of the list emphasizes that the restoration was a community-wide endeavor, not merely the work of a few leaders, mirroring the New Testament principle found in [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:12-27 - Many Members, One Body") that every part of the body is essential and contributes to the whole.

**What was the particular significance of the "east gate" mentioned in Nehemiah 3:29?**

Answer: The East Gate held immense historical, religious, and prophetic importance for Jerusalem, making its restoration and the appointment of a "keeper" particularly significant. Historically, it was a prominent and frequently used entrance to the city, especially in relation to the sacred Temple Mount. Religiously, it was deeply associated with the glory and presence of God. In Ezekiel's prophetic visions, the glory of the Lord departs the Temple through the East Gate (see [Ezekiel 10:19](/ezekiel/10-19 "Ezekiel 10:19 - The Glory of the Lord Departs")) and later returns through the very same gate to fill the new Temple (see [Ezekiel 43:1-4](/ezekiel/43-1-4 "Ezekiel 43:1-4 - The Glory of God Enters the Temple by the East Gate")). This profound connection made its restoration profoundly symbolic of God's renewed presence, blessing, and covenant faithfulness upon His people. Prophetically, some Jewish and Christian traditions link the East Gate to the future coming of the Messiah. The fact that Shemaiah was the "keeper" of this gate highlights the critical role of maintaining security, controlling access, and ensuring the sanctity of such a vital and symbolically rich entrance, emphasizing the importance of spiritual vigilance and guarding the sacred spaces of God's presence and activity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The physical rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls in Nehemiah, culminating in verses like Nehemiah 3:29, serves as a powerful Old Testament type and shadow pointing to the ultimate redemptive work of Christ. Just as Nehemiah led the returned exiles in restoring the physical security and identity of Jerusalem, Jesus Christ came to build His spiritual temple, the Church, which is infinitely more enduring, glorious, and expansive. The diverse and collective contributions of Zadok, Shemaiah, and countless others in Nehemiah 3 prefigure the profound unity and shared purpose of believers in the body of Christ, where every member, endowed with unique spiritual gifts and callings, contributes to the building up of the spiritual house of God (see [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built Together into a Holy Temple") and [1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House")). While the gatekeepers of Nehemiah's day secured the physical city, Jesus declares Himself to be "the door" or "the gate" through whom salvation, eternal life, and abundant pasture are found (see [John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door")). He is the ultimate "keeper" who grants righteous access to the Father and guards His flock (see [John 10:28](/john/10-28 "John 10:28 - No One Can Snatch Them From My Hand")). The security and peace that the rebuilt walls brought to ancient Jerusalem find their ultimate fulfillment in the spiritual security and eternal peace offered by Christ to all who are "in Him." He is the unshakable foundation upon which His church is built, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it (see [Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Christ Builds His Church")). The completed wall pointed to a restored community and a secure dwelling place for God's people, foreshadowing the heavenly Jerusalem, the eternal city, where God dwells in perfect communion with His people, and there is no longer any need for a physical temple or literal gates, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple and its radiant light (see [Hebrews 12:22](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22 - The Heavenly Jerusalem") and [Revelation 21:23-27](/revelation/21-23-27 "Revelation 21:23-27 - No Temple, No Sun, No Moon")).

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.

Jeremiah 19:2

And go forth unto the valley of the son of Hinnom, which [is] by the entry of the east gate, and proclaim there the words that I shall tell thee,

Nehemiah 7:40

The children of Immer, a thousand fifty and two.

Ezra 2:37

The children of Immer, a thousand fifty and two.