Nehemiah 3:3

KJV

But the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build, who [also] laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

But the fish {H1709} gate {H8179} did the sons {H1121} of Hassenaah {H5570} build {H1129}, who also laid the beams {H7136} thereof, and set up {H5975} the doors {H1817} thereof, the locks {H4514} thereof, and the bars {H1280} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

The sons of Hasna'ah rebuilt the Fish Gate; they installed its timber framework and set up its doors, along with its bolts and bars.

Berean Standard Bible

The Fish Gate was rebuilt by the sons of Hassenaah. They laid its beams and installed its doors, bolts, and bars.

American Standard Version

And the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build; they laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, the bolts thereof, and the bars thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 3:3 meticulously details the communal effort in rebuilding Jerusalem's walls, specifically highlighting the "sons of Hassenaah" and their crucial work on the Fish Gate. This verse, part of a comprehensive chapter listing the various groups and their assigned sections, underscores the diligent and thorough nature of the post-exilic restoration project. It illustrates the principle of shared responsibility, where each family or guild contributed their specific skills to reconstruct vital infrastructure, ensuring the city's security and functionality.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 3 serves as a remarkable "roll call" or roster, meticulously itemizing the various individuals, families, and guilds who participated in the monumental task of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. Following Nehemiah's initial arrival, his secret night inspection of the broken walls ([Nehemiah 2:11-16](/nehemiah/2-11 "Nehemiah 2:11-16 - Nehemiah's Secret Inspection")), and his inspiring call to action ([Nehemiah 2:17-18](/nehemiah/2-17 "Nehemiah 2:17-18 - Nehemiah's Call to Rebuild")), chapter 3 immediately dives into the practical execution of the work. It moves systematically around the city, starting from the Sheep Gate in the north and proceeding counter-clockwise, assigning specific sections and gates to different groups. This detailed enumeration not only provides historical record but also emphasizes the organized, collaborative, and pervasive nature of the rebuilding effort, demonstrating that no single group bore the entire burden but rather a united community.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls occurred in the mid-5th century BCE, during the Persian Empire's dominion. After decades of desolation following the Babylonian exile, Jerusalem lay vulnerable, its walls shattered, and its gates burned. This state of disrepair was not merely an architectural problem but a profound spiritual and psychological wound for the returning exiles. Walls and gates were paramount for a city's security, defense against marauders, and control of trade and movement. The Fish Gate, specifically, was likely located on the northern side of the city, a primary entry point, and its name suggests its proximity to a market where fish, perhaps from the Mediterranean Sea or the Jordan River, were sold. Its reconstruction, including its critical components like beams, doors, locks, and bars, was therefore essential not only for physical defense but also for the economic vitality and symbolic restoration of Jerusalem as a secure, functioning city.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 3, and Nehemiah 3:3 in particular, powerfully illustrates several core themes. First, **shared responsibility** is paramount, as the chapter meticulously lists diverse groups—priests, Levites, goldsmiths, perfumers, merchants, and various families—each taking ownership of a specific segment, demonstrating that God's work thrives on collective effort and individual contribution, as seen throughout the book of [Nehemiah](/nehemiah/1 "The Book of Nehemiah - Rebuilding Jerusalem"). Second, **diligence and thoroughness** are highlighted by the meticulous detail of the work: not just building the gate, but also laying its beams, setting its doors, and installing robust locks and bars. This attention to detail underscores the importance of completing tasks with excellence and ensuring lasting security. Third, the theme of **restoration and security** is evident in the emphasis on fully functional gates, which were crucial for the city's defense and symbolized Jerusalem's renewed stability and protection after decades of vulnerability, echoing the broader theme of God's faithfulness in restoring His people and their land, as promised in passages like [Jeremiah 30:18](/jeremiah/30-18 "Jeremiah 30:18 - Restoration of Jerusalem"). Finally, the entire endeavor represents **faith in action**, as the physical rebuilding of the wall was a tangible expression of the people's obedience and trust in God's leading through Nehemiah.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hassenaah (Hebrew, _ha-s'na'ah_):** This name, meaning "the thorny one" or "the hated one," likely refers to a specific family or clan rather than an individual. Its inclusion here, alongside other named groups, underscores the communal and familial nature of the rebuilding project. It signifies that the effort was not just a governmental decree but a deeply personal commitment from various segments of the post-exilic community, with specific family lines taking responsibility for particular sections of the wall. The very specificity of such names highlights the meticulous record-keeping and the deep sense of ownership each group felt for their assigned task.
* **Fish Gate (Hebrew, _sha'ar ha-dagim_):** As mentioned in the context, this gate was strategically important, likely located on the northern side of Jerusalem and named for its proximity to a fish market. Its reconstruction was vital for both defense and commerce. The fact that its rebuilding is singled out, complete with its components, emphasizes its significance as a key entry point into the city, controlling access and facilitating trade, thereby contributing to the city's economic and physical well-being.
* **Beams, doors, locks, and bars (Hebrew, _qorot, d'latot, man'ulim, b'rihim_):** These four terms collectively describe the essential components required for a fully functional and secure gate. "Beams" (qorot) refer to the main structural supports, "doors" (d'latot) are the movable panels, and "locks" (man'ulim) and "bars" (b'rihim) are the mechanisms for securing the gate. The enumeration of these specific elements highlights the thoroughness and diligence of the builders. It wasn't enough to simply erect a gate; it had to be robust, secure, and fully operational, capable of providing genuine protection for the city. This detail underscores the commitment to completing the work with excellence and ensuring its lasting efficacy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build":** This opening clause immediately identifies the specific section of the wall and the group responsible for its construction. The "Fish Gate" is singled out as a significant point of entry, and the "sons of Hassenaah" are credited, emphasizing the organized division of labor. This highlights the principle that large, daunting tasks are accomplished through the focused efforts of many individuals or groups, each taking ownership of a manageable portion.
* **"who [also] laid the beams thereof":** This phrase details the initial structural work involved in constructing the gate. Laying the beams refers to installing the foundational horizontal and vertical supports that would bear the weight and provide the framework for the gate. This indicates a methodical and foundational approach to the work, ensuring the structural integrity of the gate before other components were added.
* **"and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof":** This concluding clause completes the description of the gate's construction, focusing on its functional and security elements. "Setting up the doors" means installing the actual movable panels. The addition of "locks" and "bars" is crucial, as these mechanisms transformed a mere opening into a secure barrier. This detail underscores the commitment to not just superficial completion but to ensuring the gate was fully operational, providing the necessary defense and control for the city.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 3:3, along with the entire chapter, prominently employs **Enumeration** and **Detailing**. The verse lists specific components of the gate (beams, doors, locks, bars), which is a form of **Enumeration** that emphasizes the thoroughness and precision of the work. This detailed listing serves to underscore the meticulous nature of the rebuilding project and the dedication of the workers. Furthermore, the focus on the functional elements of the gate—its locks and bars—uses **Synecdoche**, where a part (the locking mechanisms) stands for the whole concept of security and defense that the complete gate provides. The repetition of "thereof" (referring to the gate) also subtly reinforces the singular focus on the completion and functionality of this vital structure. The very naming of "the sons of Hassenaah" and "the Fish Gate" also serves as **Specific Naming**, lending historical authenticity and highlighting the individual contributions within the larger collective effort.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 3:3 beautifully encapsulates the theological principles of communal responsibility, diligent service, and the importance of spiritual and physical security. The detailed account of each group's contribution to a specific section of the wall illustrates that God's work is often accomplished through the unified, diverse efforts of His people, where every individual's contribution, no matter how seemingly small or specialized, is indispensable to the greater whole. The emphasis on installing beams, doors, locks, and bars speaks to the necessity of thoroughness and excellence in our endeavors for God, ensuring that what is built is not merely functional but robust and secure. This physical rebuilding of Jerusalem's defenses served as a tangible expression of faith and obedience, demonstrating a commitment to restoring not just bricks and mortar, but the very identity and security of God's chosen people.

* [Ephesians 4:16](/ephesians/4-16 "Ephesians 4:16 - The Body of Christ Building Itself Up")
* [1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers")
* [Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23 - Work Heartily for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 3:3, set within the larger context of the chapter, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers and communities. It calls us to recognize the value of every individual's contribution to the collective work of God's kingdom, whether in the local church, a ministry, or broader societal impact. Just as the sons of Hassenaah diligently worked on their assigned section of the Fish Gate, we are called to identify our unique gifts, skills, and resources and apply them with diligence and excellence to the tasks God has placed before us. The emphasis on installing "locks and bars" reminds us that true spiritual and communal security comes not from superficial efforts but from thorough, dedicated work that is completed with integrity and designed for lasting effectiveness. In a world often prone to division, this verse champions unity, shared vision, and the power of collaboration in overcoming daunting challenges and building up what is broken.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "section of the wall" or specific task has God called you to contribute to within your community or church?**
* **In what areas of your life or service might you be tempted to do superficial work, and how can the "locks and bars" of Nehemiah 3:3 inspire you to greater thoroughness and excellence?**
* **How does the concept of shared responsibility, as seen in Nehemiah 3, challenge or encourage your understanding of teamwork and collaboration in spiritual endeavors?**
* **Considering the Fish Gate's importance for security and commerce, what spiritual "gates" in your life or community need to be rebuilt and secured against spiritual attack or worldly influence?**

### FAQ

**Why is Nehemiah 3 so detailed with names and sections?**

Answer: Nehemiah 3 is meticulously detailed with names and specific sections of the wall for several crucial reasons. First, it serves as a historical record, authenticating the massive undertaking and giving credit to the diverse groups and individuals who participated. This level of detail underscores the reality and magnitude of the effort. Second, it highlights the principle of shared responsibility and unity; no single person or group built the entire wall, but rather a collective effort where everyone had a specific, manageable task. This fostered a sense of ownership and accountability. Third, the enumeration of names and locations emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the restoration—every part of the wall and every gate was addressed. Finally, it serves as an enduring testament to God's ability to mobilize His people for a common purpose, demonstrating that even seemingly mundane details of labor are important in His grand plan, as seen in the call to rebuild Jerusalem's walls after decades of desolation ([Nehemiah 2:17-18](/nehemiah/2-17 "Nehemiah 2:17-18 - Nehemiah's Call to Rebuild")).

**What was the significance of the "Fish Gate"?**

Answer: The Fish Gate was a significant entry point into Jerusalem, likely located on the northern side of the city. Its name suggests its proximity to a market where fish, possibly from the Mediterranean Sea or the Jordan River, were brought in for sale. As a primary gate, its reconstruction was vital for both the physical security and the economic vitality of Jerusalem. Gates were not just openings; they were fortified structures essential for controlling access, defending against enemies, and facilitating trade. The meticulous rebuilding of the Fish Gate, including its beams, doors, locks, and bars, underscored the commitment to restoring Jerusalem's defenses and re-establishing its functionality as a thriving city, symbolizing the return to order and security for the post-exilic community. Its strategic importance is further highlighted by its mention in other biblical texts, such as [Zephaniah 1:10](/zephaniah/1-10 "Zephaniah 1:10 - Prophecy of Judgment on Jerusalem"), indicating its established presence and role in the city's life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The physical rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and gates in Nehemiah 3, exemplified by the work on the Fish Gate, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the spiritual building of God's eternal kingdom and the Church. Just as the sons of Hassenaah diligently secured the physical gate with locks and bars, Christ is the ultimate "gate" and source of security for His people ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Gate")). He is the foundation and cornerstone upon whom the spiritual edifice of the Church is built ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ as Cornerstone")). The communal effort of rebuilding the wall foreshadows the New Testament Church, where every believer, empowered by the Holy Spirit, contributes their unique gifts to build up the body of Christ, working together in unity and purpose ([Ephesians 4:16](/ephesians/4-16 "Ephesians 4:16 - The Body of Christ Building Itself Up")). The completed and secured gates of Jerusalem pointed to a restored city; similarly, Christ's finished work on the cross provides complete and eternal security for believers, against which "the gates of Hades will not prevail" ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hades")). Ultimately, the physical restoration of Jerusalem anticipates the New Jerusalem, where the gates are never shut, signifying perfect peace and security in God's eternal presence, all made possible through Christ, the Lamb who is its light ([Revelation 21:25](/revelation/21-25 "Revelation 21:25 - Gates of New Jerusalem")).

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

2 Chronicles 33:14

Now after this he built a wall without the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entering in at the fish gate, and compassed about Ophel, and raised it up a very great height, and put captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah.

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.

Nehemiah 2:8

And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which [appertained] to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.

Zephaniah 1:10

And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD, [that there shall be] the noise of a cry from the fish gate, and an howling from the second, and a great crashing from the hills.

Nehemiah 3:6

Moreover the old gate repaired Jehoiada the son of Paseah, and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah; they laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.

Nehemiah 7:1

¶ Now it came to pass, when the wall was built, and I had set up the doors, and the porters and the singers and the Levites were appointed,

Nehemiah 6:1

¶ Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and [that] there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;)