TRV
Translation
King James Version
And between the going up of the corner unto the sheep gate repaired the goldsmiths and the merchants.
Complete Jewish Bible
Finally, between the upper room at the corner and the Sheep Gate the goldsmiths and merchants made repairs.
Berean Standard Bible
And between the upper room above the corner and the Sheep Gate, the goldsmiths and merchants made repairs.
American Standard Version
And between the ascent of the corner and the sheep gate repaired the goldsmiths and the merchants.
World English Bible Messianic
Between the ascent of the corner and the sheep gate, the goldsmiths and the merchants made repairs.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And betweene the chamber of the corner vnto the sheepegate fortified the goldesmithes and the marchantes.
Young's Literal Translation
And between the ascent of the corner and the sheep-gate, have the refiners and the merchants strengthened.
See on the biblical-era map
In the KJVVerse 12,360 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Nehemiah 3 verses 1–32
1 ¶ 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.
2 And next unto him builded the men of Jericho. And next to them builded Zaccur the son of Imri.
3 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.
4 And next unto them repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah, the son of Koz. And next unto them repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah, the son of Meshezabeel. And next unto them repaired Zadok the son of Baana.
5 And next unto them the Tekoites repaired; but their nobles put not their necks to the work of their Lord.
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.
7 And next unto them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite, and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon, and of Mizpah, unto the throne of the governor on this side the river.
8 Next unto him repaired Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, of the goldsmiths. Next unto him also repaired Hananiah the son of one of the apothecaries, and they fortified Jerusalem unto the broad wall.
9 And next unto them repaired Rephaiah the son of Hur, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem.
10 And next unto them repaired Jedaiah the son of Harumaph, even over against his house. And next unto him repaired Hattush the son of Hashabniah.
11 Malchijah the son of Harim, and Hashub the son of Pahathmoab, repaired the other piece, and the tower of the furnaces.
12 And next unto him repaired Shallum the son of Halohesh, the ruler of the half part of Jerusalem, he and his daughters.
13 The valley gate repaired Hanun, and the inhabitants of Zanoah; they built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and a thousand cubits on the wall unto the dung gate.
14 But the dung gate repaired Malchiah the son of Rechab, the ruler of part of Bethhaccerem; he built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.
15 But the gate of the fountain repaired Shallun the son of Colhozeh, the ruler of part of Mizpah; he built it, and covered it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and the wall of the pool of Siloah by the king's garden, and unto the stairs that go down from the city of David.
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.
17 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.
18 After him repaired their brethren, Bavai the son of Henadad, the ruler of the half part of Keilah.
19 And next to him repaired Ezer the son of Jeshua, the ruler of Mizpah, another piece over against the going up to the armoury at the turning of the wall.
20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai earnestly repaired the other piece, from the turning of the wall unto the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest.
21 After him repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah the son of Koz another piece, from the door of the house of Eliashib even to the end of the house of Eliashib.
22 And after him repaired the priests, the men of the plain.
23 After him repaired Benjamin and Hashub over against their house. After him repaired Azariah the son of Maaseiah the son of Ananiah by his house.
24 After him repaired Binnui the son of Henadad another piece, from the house of Azariah unto the turning of the wall, even unto the corner.
25 Palal the son of Uzai, over against the turning of the wall, and the tower which lieth out from the king's high house, that was by the court of the prison. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh.
26 Moreover the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel, unto the place over against the water gate toward the east, and the tower that lieth out.
27 After them the Tekoites repaired another piece, over against the great tower that lieth out, even unto the wall of Ophel.
28 From above the horse gate repaired the priests, every one over against his house.
29 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.
30 After him repaired Hananiah the son of Shelemiah, and Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph, another piece. After him repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah over against his chamber.
31 After him repaired Malchiah the goldsmith's son unto the place of the Nethinims, and of the merchants, over against the gate Miphkad, and to the going up of the corner.
32 And between the going up of the corner unto the sheep gate repaired the goldsmiths and the merchants.
The best way to know how to divide this chapter is to observe how the work was divided among the undertakers, that every one might know what he had to do, and mind it accordingly with a holy emulation, and desire to excel, yet without any contention, animosity, or separate interest. No strife appears among them but which should do most for the public good. Several things are observable in the account here given of the building of the wall about Jerusalem: -
I. That Eliashib the high priest, with his brethren the priests, led the van in this troop of builders, Neh 3:1. Ministers should be foremost in every good work; for their office obliges them to teach and quicken by their example, as well as by their doctrine. If there be labour in it, who so fit as they to work? if danger, who so fit as they to venture? The dignity of the high priest was very great, and obliged him to signalize himself in this service. The priests repaired the sheep-gate, so called because through it were brought the sheep that were to be sacrificed in the temple; and therefore the priests undertook the repair of it because the offerings of the Lord made by fire were their inheritance. And of this gate only it is said that they sanctified it with the word and prayer, and perhaps with sacrifices perhaps, 1. Because it led to the temple; or, 2. Because with this the building of the wall began, and it is probable (though they were at work in all parts of the wall at the same time) that this was first finished, and therefore at this gate they solemnly committed their city and the walls of it to the divine protection; or, 3. Because the priests were the builders of it; and it becomes ministers above others, being themselves in a peculiar manner sanctified to God, to sanctify to him all their performances, and to do even their common actions after a godly sort.
II. That the undertakers were very many, who each took his share, some more and some less, in this work, according as their ability was. Note, What is to be done for the public good every one should assist in, and further, to the utmost of his place and power. United force will conquer that which no individual dares venture on. Many hands will make light work.
III. That many were active in this work who were not themselves inhabitants of Jerusalem, and therefore consulted purely the public welfare and not any private interest or advantage of their own. Here are the men of Jericho with the first (Neh 3:2), the men of Gibeon and Mizpah (Neh 3:7), and Zanoah, Neh 3:13. Every Israelite should lend a hand towards the building up of Jerusalem.
IV. That several rulers, both of Jerusalem and of other cities, were active in this work, thinking themselves bound in honour to do the utmost that their wealth and power enabled them to do for the furtherance of this good work. But it is observable that they are called rulers of part, or the half part, of their respective cities. One was ruler of the half part of Jerusalem (Neh 3:12), another of part of Beth-haccerem (Neh 3:14), another of part of Mizpah (Neh 3:15), another of the half part of Beth-zur (Neh 3:16), one was ruler of one half part, and another of the other half part, of Keilah, Neh 3:17, Neh 3:18. Perhaps the Persian government would not entrust any one with a strong city, but appointed two to be a watch upon each other. Rome had two consuls.
V. Here is a just reproach fastened upon the nobles of Tekoa, that they put not their necks to the work of their Lord (Neh 3:5), that is, they would not come under the yoke of an obligation to this service; as if the dignity and liberty of their peerage were their discharge from serving God and doing good, which are indeed the highest honour and the truest freedom. Let not nobles think any thing below them by which they may advance the interests of their country; for what else is their nobility good for but that it puts them in a higher and larger sphere of usefulness than that in which inferior persons move?
VI. Two persons joined in repairing the old gate (Neh 3:6), and so were co-founders, and shared the honour of it between them. The good work which we cannot compass ourselves we must be thankful to those that will go partners with us in. Some think that this is called the old gate because it belonged to the ancient Salem, which was said to be first built by Melchizedek.
VII. Several good honest tradesmen, as well as priests and rulers, were active in this work - goldsmiths, apothecaries, merchants, Neh 3:8, Neh 3:32. They did not think their callings excused them, nor plead that they could not leave their shops to attend the public business, knowing that what they lost would certainly be made up to them by the blessing of God upon their callings.
VIII. Some ladies are spoken of as helping forward this work - Shallum and his daughters (Neh 3:12), who, though not capable of personal service, yet having their portions in their own hands, or being rich widows, contributed money for buying materials and paying workmen. St. Paul speaks of some good women that laboured with him in the gospel, Phi 4:3.
IX. Of some it is said that they repaired over against their houses (Neh 3:10, Neh 3:23, Neh 3:28, Neh 3:29), and of one (who, it is likely, was only a lodger) that he repaired over against his chamber, Neh 3:30. When a general good work is to be done each should apply himself to that part of it that falls nearest to him and is within his reach. If every one will sweep before his own door, the street will be clean; if every one will mend one, we shall be all mended. If he that has but a chamber will repair before that, he does his part.
X. Of one it is said that he earnestly repaired that which fell to his share (Neh 3:20) - he did it with an inflamed zeal; not that others were cold or indifferent, but he was the most vigorous of any of them and consequently made himself remarkable. It is good to be thus zealously affected in a good thin; and it is probable that this good man's zeal provoked very many to take the more pains and make the more haste.
XI. Of one of these builders it is observed that he was the sixth son of his father, Neh 3:30. His five elder brethren, it seems, laid not their hand to this work, but he did. In doing that which is good we need not stay to see our elders go before us; if they decline it, it does not therefore follow that we must. Thus the younger brother, if he be the better man, and does God and his generation better service, is indeed the better gentleman; those are most honourable that are most useful.
XII. Some of those that had first done helped their fellows, and undertook another share where they saw there was most need. Meremoth repaired, Neh 3:4. and again, Neh 3:21. And the Tekoites, besides the piece they repaired (Neh 3:5), undertook another piece (Neh 3:27), which is the more remarkable because their nobles set them a bad example by withdrawing from the service, which, instead of serving them for an excuse to sit still, perhaps made them the more forward to do double work, that by their zeal they might either shame or atone for the covetousness and carelessness of their nobles.
Lastly, Here is no mention of any particular share that Nehemiah himself had in this work. A name-sake of his is mentioned, Neh 3:16. But did he do nothing? Yes, though he undertook not any particular piece of the wall, yet he did more than any of them, for he had the oversight of them all; half of his servants worked where there was most need, and the other half stood sentinel, as we find afterwards (Neh 4:16), while he himself in his own person walked the rounds, directed and encouraged the builders, set his hand to the work where he saw occasion, and kept a watchful eye upon the motions of the enemy, as we shall find in the next chapter. The pilot needs not haul at a rope: it is enough for him to steer.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–32. Public domain.
Copy as
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as
Continue studying Nehemiah 3:32 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
SUMMARY
Nehemiah 3:32 concludes the meticulous record of Jerusalem's wall reconstruction, detailing the specific section repaired "between the going up of the corner unto the sheep gate." This verse highlights the unexpected yet crucial involvement of "goldsmiths" and "merchants," underscoring the communal, diverse, and dedicated effort of all segments of society in the monumental task of rebuilding the city's defenses and restoring its identity and security.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Nehemiah 3:32, as part of its larger chapter, employs several significant literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. The entire chapter functions as a Catalogue or Register, meticulously listing names, locations, and responsibilities, which lends an air of historical authenticity and underscores the organized, systematic nature of the rebuilding effort. The verse itself contributes to an Inclusio or Framing Device for the chapter, as the wall's description begins and ends near the Sheep Gate (Nehemiah 3:1), creating a profound sense of completion and demonstrating that the entire circuit of the wall was successfully repaired. The specific mention of "goldsmiths and merchants" can be seen as a form of Synecdoche or Metonymy, where these specific, somewhat unexpected groups stand in for the entire diverse community, powerfully emphasizing that everyone participated, from the most prominent to the least expected, in this collective endeavor. Finally, the physical act of rebuilding the wall itself carries profound Symbolism, representing not just physical security and defense but also the spiritual and communal restoration of God's people, the re-establishment of their identity, and their renewed commitment to the covenant in Jerusalem.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 3:32 offers a profound theological lesson on the nature of God's work through His people. It demonstrates that the building of God's kingdom is a collective enterprise, requiring the diverse gifts, dedicated efforts, and unified hearts of every member of the community. No skill or profession is too specialized or too common to be consecrated to the Lord's service. The goldsmiths and merchants, seemingly far removed from manual labor, exemplify a spirit of unity and selflessness, laying aside their usual pursuits for a greater, God-ordained purpose. This highlights God's ability to orchestrate a unified effort from disparate individuals, proving that when hearts are aligned with His will, even monumental tasks can be accomplished through shared labor and divine empowerment. This verse serves as a timeless reminder that every believer has a vital role to play in the spiritual "rebuilding" of the church, the advancement of God's purposes in the world, and the collective witness to His glory.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 3:32 offers powerful contemporary lessons for believers and communities today, challenging our assumptions about who is called or qualified for God's service. It moves beyond the idea that only those with specific "spiritual" or "professional" qualifications are fit for ministry. Just as goldsmiths and merchants, whose daily work was far removed from construction, dedicated themselves to rebuilding the physical walls, so too are we called to consecrate our diverse talents, skills, and resources—whether intellectual, financial, creative, or practical—to strengthen our spiritual communities and bear witness to God's work in the world. This verse encourages us to look beyond our comfort zones and perceived limitations, fostering a spirit of unity where every member understands their indispensable role in the collective mission. It reminds us that the health and growth of the church, like the restoration of Jerusalem, depend on the willing and unified participation of "all hands on deck," reflecting a selfless commitment to the common good and God's glory.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are "goldsmiths" and "merchants" specifically mentioned as wall builders in Nehemiah 3:32?
Answer: The specific mention of "goldsmiths" and "merchants" is highly significant because it highlights the extraordinary breadth and inclusivity of participation in the rebuilding effort. These were not typical laborers; goldsmiths were skilled artisans, often wealthy, engaged in refining precious metals, and merchants were involved in trade and commerce. Their involvement underscores that the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was a truly communal project, transcending social status, wealth, and professional background. It demonstrates that every segment of society, from priests and nobles (mentioned earlier in Nehemiah 3) to specialized craftsmen and traders, contributed their time, resources, and physical labor. This emphasizes the "all hands on deck" mentality and God's ability to unite diverse people for a common, divinely appointed purpose, showcasing a profound commitment to the restoration of their city and identity.
What is the significance of the "Sheep Gate" in Nehemiah 3:32, especially its mention at the chapter's end?
Answer: The "Sheep Gate" was a crucial and symbolic entrance to Jerusalem, likely located on the northeast side of the city, close to the Temple area. Its name suggests its primary use for bringing sheep into the city, particularly for sacrificial purposes, thus linking it directly to the spiritual and religious life of the community. In Nehemiah 3, the Sheep Gate is mentioned at the very beginning of the chapter (Nehemiah 3:1) and again at its conclusion in Nehemiah 3:32. This literary device, known as an inclusio, signifies that the entire circuit of the wall was successfully repaired, starting and ending at this vital spiritual gateway. Its strategic location and connection to the Temple underscore that the physical rebuilding of the city was intrinsically linked to the spiritual restoration of God's people and the re-establishment of their worship.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah 3:32, with its depiction of diverse individuals uniting to rebuild Jerusalem's physical walls, offers a powerful foreshadowing of the spiritual "rebuilding" accomplished through Jesus Christ. The physical security provided by the restored wall points to the ultimate spiritual security found in Christ, who is our fortress and refuge and the one who builds an unshakable kingdom. The "Sheep Gate," a portal for sacrificial animals, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the Lamb of God, whose perfect sacrifice provides the true and lasting access to God, opening the way to the new and living way. Furthermore, the communal effort of goldsmiths, merchants, and all others in Nehemiah 3 beautifully prefigures the Body of Christ in the New Testament. Just as every part of the community contributed to the physical structure, so too does every believer, with their unique spiritual gifts, contribute to the building up of the church, the spiritual temple of God (Ephesians 2:19-22). The unity of purpose seen in Nehemiah points to the profound unity believers find in Christ, where distinctions of social status or profession are transcended by a shared identity and mission to advance God's kingdom. Ultimately, the "corner" mentioned in the verse finds its ultimate significance in Christ, the Chief Cornerstone, upon whom the entire spiritual edifice of God's people is securely built, ensuring its eternal strength and purpose.