Nehemiah 3:32

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And between the going up {H5944} of the corner {H6438} unto the sheep {H6629} gate {H8179} repaired {H2388} the goldsmiths {H6884} and the merchants {H7402}.

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.

Commentary

### 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
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 3 functions as a detailed architectural and sociological register, systematically listing the various sections of Jerusalem's wall that were rebuilt and identifying the individuals, families, and guilds responsible for each segment. This chapter serves as a powerful testament to the organized and collaborative nature of the post-exilic restoration project. Verse 32 specifically serves as the concluding entry, bringing the description of the wall's circuit full circle, back to the vicinity of the Sheep Gate where the account began in [Nehemiah 3:1](/nehemiah/3-1 "Nehemiah 3:1 - The Sheep Gate and Its Builders"). This literary device, known as an inclusio or framing device, not only emphasizes the comprehensive completion of the entire wall but also highlights the unity and thoroughness of the community's collective effort in achieving this monumental task.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Nehemiah is set in the mid-5th century BC (circa 445 BC), during the post-exilic period when Jewish exiles, with the permission of the Persian king Artaxerxes I, returned to Jerusalem to re-establish their community. For over a century, the city's walls had lain in ruins since the Babylonian destruction in 586 BC, leaving the inhabitants vulnerable to attack and deeply demoralized. The rebuilding project was thus far more than a mere construction task; it was a profound act of national, spiritual, and psychological restoration, symbolizing the re-establishment of Israel's identity and security under God's providence. The "Sheep Gate" was a significant and strategic entrance, likely located on the northeast side of the city, near 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. The involvement of "goldsmiths" and "merchants" is particularly noteworthy; these were not typical construction workers but skilled artisans and traders, often of considerable wealth and social standing. Their participation underscores the extraordinary unity and commitment across all social strata, from priests and nobles to common laborers, in this divinely ordained endeavor.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 3:32 powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes found throughout the book of Nehemiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it exemplifies **Communal Effort and Unity**, demonstrating that the success of God's work often hinges on the collective contribution of every member, regardless of their usual profession or social status. The rebuilding was a "whole community" project, not just for a select few, reflecting God's design for His people to work together. Secondly, it highlights **Diligence and Dedication**, as individuals like the goldsmiths and merchants, whose primary trades were not manual labor, committed themselves physically to this arduous task. This echoes the spirit noted in [Nehemiah 4:6](/nehemiah/4-6 "Nehemiah 4:6 - The People Had a Mind to Work"), where the people worked "with a mind to work." Thirdly, the verse subtly points to **God's Providence in Human Labor**. While Nehemiah provided visionary leadership and organization, the successful completion of the wall was ultimately a testament to God moving the hearts of diverse individuals to contribute their unique skills and resources for a common, divinely appointed purpose, as Nehemiah himself recognized in his call to rebuild in [Nehemiah 2:17](/nehemiah/2-17 "Nehemiah 2:17 - Nehemiah's Call to Rebuild Jerusalem").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **repaired (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** This primitive root signifies "to fasten upon," "to seize," and hence, "to be strong." In a causative sense, it means "to strengthen," "to fortify," or "to mend." The use of _châzaq_ here emphasizes not just a casual fix but a robust, intentional act of making strong and secure, reflecting the earnestness and thoroughness of the builders' work. It implies a commitment to restoring the wall to a state of defensive integrity.
* **goldsmiths (Hebrew, _tsâraph'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to fuse" or "to refine metal," this term refers to skilled artisans who worked with precious metals. Their involvement in the physical labor of wall building is highly significant, as it demonstrates that individuals of specialized, often lucrative, and non-manual trades were willing to contribute their time and physical effort to the common good. It highlights a profound commitment that transcended professional boundaries, underscoring the collective ownership and dedication to the restoration project.
* **merchants (Hebrew, _râkal'_):** This primitive root means "to travel for trading." These were individuals whose livelihoods depended on commerce, often involving travel and negotiation rather than physical labor. Their inclusion alongside the goldsmiths further emphasizes the broad spectrum of society involved in the restoration project. It powerfully illustrates that every segment of the community, regardless of their usual occupation, consecrated their resources and physical labor to this monumental, divinely appointed task.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And between the going up of the corner":** This phrase describes a specific geographical marker on the wall, indicating a section that extended from an elevated or strategic point. "The corner" (Hebrew, _pinnâh_) likely refers to a prominent tower, a significant turning point in the wall's circuit, or possibly the "Corner Gate" mentioned elsewhere. This detail, like many others in Nehemiah 3, provides precise topographical information, allowing the reader to trace the progression of the rebuilding efforts around the city.
* **"unto the sheep gate":** This marks the other end of the section being repaired. As a crucial entrance, strategically located near the Temple, the Sheep Gate was the starting point of the wall's repair in [Nehemiah 3:1](/nehemiah/3-1 "Nehemiah 3:1 - The Sheep Gate and Its Builders"). Its mention here at the chapter's conclusion signifies the successful completion of the entire circuit of the wall, creating a powerful sense of accomplishment and closure for the detailed account.
* **"repaired the goldsmiths":** This clause identifies the first group responsible for this particular section of the wall. The goldsmiths, as skilled artisans, were not typically associated with heavy construction. Their participation underscores the extraordinary nature of the communal effort, where individuals from all walks of life, including those of higher social standing or specialized professions, contributed directly to the physical labor, demonstrating remarkable unity and selflessness.
* **"and the merchants":** This clause identifies the second group, further reinforcing the theme of broad societal involvement. Whether traders, perfumers, or apothecaries (as the root can sometimes imply), their inclusion alongside the goldsmiths highlights that the rebuilding project was a truly inclusive endeavor, requiring and receiving contributions from every segment of Jerusalem's population, united by a common purpose.

#### 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 (cf. [Nehemiah 3:1](/nehemiah/3-1 "Nehemiah 3:1 - The Sheep Gate and Its Builders")), 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.

* [1 Corinthians 12:4-7](/1_corinthians/12-4-7 "1 Corinthians 12:4-7 - Diversity of Gifts, Unity in Spirit")
* [Ephesians 4:16](/ephesians/4-16 "Ephesians 4:16 - The Body of Christ Built Up")
* [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4-5 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body")

### 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
* **How does Nehemiah 3:32 challenge our assumptions about who is "qualified" to serve in God's kingdom or contribute to the church's mission?**
* **What specific "gifts" or "professions" do you possess that God might be calling you to consecrate for the common good of your community or church, even if they seem unrelated to traditional ministry?**
* **In what practical ways can your local church or community foster a greater sense of unity and shared responsibility, mirroring the spirit seen in Nehemiah 3, where diverse individuals worked together for a common purpose?**

### 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](/nehemiah/3 "Nehemiah 3 - Rebuilding the Wall of Jerusalem")) 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](/nehemiah/3-1 "Nehemiah 3:1 - The Sheep Gate and Its Builders")) and again at its conclusion in [Nehemiah 3:32](/nehemiah/3-32 "Nehemiah 3:32 - Goldsmiths and Merchants Repair the Wall"). 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](/psalms/18-2 "Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is My Rock and My Fortress") 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](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - 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](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God Through Christ"). Furthermore, the communal effort of goldsmiths, merchants, and all others in Nehemiah 3 beautifully prefigures the [Body of Christ](/1_corinthians/12-27 "1 Corinthians 12:27 - You are 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](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built Together into a Holy Temple")). The unity of purpose seen in Nehemiah points to the profound unity believers find [in Christ](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile, Slave or Free, Male or Female 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](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ the Cornerstone"), upon whom the entire spiritual edifice of God's people is securely built, ensuring its eternal strength and purpose.

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 3:1

¶ 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.

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.

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.

Nehemiah 3:31

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.

Nehemiah 3:8

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.