Nehemiah 3:5

KJV

And next unto them the Tekoites repaired; but their nobles put not their necks to the work of their Lord.

KJV (with Strong's)

And next unto them {H3027} the Tekoites {H8621} repaired {H2388}; but their nobles {H117} put {H935} not their necks {H6677} to the work {H5656} of their Lord {H113}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Next to them the men from T'koa made repairs; but their nobles would not put their shoulders to the work of their Lord.

Berean Standard Bible

Next to him, the Tekoites made repairs, but their nobles did not put their shoulders to the work under their supervisors.

American Standard Version

And next unto them the Tekoites repaired; but their nobles put not their necks to the work of their lord.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 3:5 provides a poignant snapshot within the detailed account of Jerusalem's wall reconstruction, highlighting the diligent participation of the Tekoite community in repairing a section of the wall. However, it sharply contrasts this communal effort with the striking refusal of their "nobles" or prominent citizens to engage in the physical labor, stating they "put not their necks to the work of their Lord." This verse serves as a powerful commentary on leadership, responsibility, and the spiritual commitment required for God's divinely ordained tasks, exposing a significant failure of those in privilege to humble themselves and serve alongside their community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah chapter 3 functions as a meticulous, almost architectural, register of the collaborative effort to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. It systematically lists the various families, guilds, and communities responsible for specific sections, demonstrating the organized and widespread nature of the restoration project under Nehemiah's leadership, which began with his initial assessment of the damage in [Nehemiah 2](/nehemiah/2 "Nehemiah 2 - Nehemiah Inspects Jerusalem's Walls"). Each verse typically identifies a group and their assigned portion, creating a mosaic of communal dedication. Verse 5 is one such entry, specifically noting the Tekoites' contribution, but uniquely interjecting a critical commentary on their leadership. This exception stands out sharply against the backdrop of collective zeal described throughout [Nehemiah 3](/nehemiah/3 "Nehemiah 3 - The Rebuilding of the Wall"), underscoring the spiritual significance of the nobles' inaction within a narrative otherwise focused on unity and shared labor.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was a monumental and deeply symbolic undertaking for the Jewish exiles returning from Babylon. Beyond providing physical security against external threats, it was crucial for restoring the city's dignity, identity, and the spiritual vitality of the community centered on the Temple. This period was marked by significant opposition from surrounding peoples, as vividly detailed in [Nehemiah 4](/nehemiah/4 "Nehemiah 4 - Opposition to the Rebuilding"), making internal unity and commitment paramount. In ancient Near Eastern societies, while communal labor for vital infrastructure was common, direct physical labor was often considered beneath the dignity of "nobles" or "magnates" (Hebrew: _addirîm_), who typically held positions of wealth, power, and social prestige. They were expected to provide resources or oversight, not to toil alongside common laborers. It is precisely this cultural expectation that makes the Tekoite nobles' refusal, especially in a divinely mandated project, a profound act of apathy or defiance, highlighting a spiritual rather than merely social failure.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 3:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Nehemiah. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Shared Responsibility and Collective Action**, emphasizing that the success of God's work hinges on the unified efforts of His people from all strata of society. The diligent work of the general Tekoite community exemplifies this, contrasting with the nobles' failure. Secondly, the verse speaks to the critical theme of **Leadership and Example**. Nehemiah himself embodied hands-on, servant leadership, actively participating and inspiring others, as seen in [Nehemiah 2:18](/nehemiah/2-18 "Nehemiah 2:18 - Nehemiah's Call to Rebuild"). The nobles' inaction serves as a stark negative example, highlighting the spiritual danger of pride and the importance of leaders modeling humility and commitment. Finally, the phrase "work of their Lord" underscores the theme of **Commitment to God's Work**. The wall's reconstruction was not merely a civic project but a sacred, divinely commissioned task. The nobles' reluctance was, therefore, a spiritual failing—a refusal to commit to God's call, perhaps stemming from pride, comfort, or a lack of spiritual resolve, which remains a recurring challenge for God's people throughout history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Nobles (Hebrew, _ʼaddîyr_):** This term (H117) denotes individuals who are "wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful; excellent, famous, gallant, glorious, goodly, lordly, mighty(-ier one), noble, principal, worthy." In this context, it refers to the prominent, influential, and socially elevated members of the Tekoite community. Their status implies a position of leadership and responsibility, making their refusal to participate in the physical labor a significant dereliction of duty, not just as citizens, but as those expected to set an example for their community in a divinely sanctioned endeavor.
* **Necks (Hebrew, _tsavvâʼr_):** This word (H6677) literally means "the back of the neck (as that on which burdens are bound)." In the idiom "put not their necks," it vividly evokes the image of draft animals refusing to place their necks into a yoke for plowing or pulling a cart. The neck, in this sense, symbolizes submission to labor, burden-bearing, and humble service. The nobles' refusal to "put their necks" signifies a stubborn unwillingness to submit to the demands of the task, to humble themselves, or to bear the burden of physical labor alongside their people.
* **Lord (Hebrew, _ʼâdôwn_):** This term (H113) means "sovereign, i.e. controller (human or divine); lord, master, owner." In the phrase "work of their Lord," it unequivocally refers to God, elevating the wall-building project from a mere civic or national endeavor to a sacred, divinely commissioned task. The work was not simply for Nehemiah or for the city of Jerusalem, but ultimately for the sovereign God. Therefore, the nobles' refusal was not merely a social slight or a practical failure, but a profound spiritual act of disobedience or apathy toward God Himself, underscoring the spiritual significance of even seemingly mundane tasks when undertaken in obedience to divine command.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And next unto them the Tekoites repaired;":** This initial clause establishes the commendable participation of the Tekoite community in the rebuilding effort. It highlights the widespread and collective nature of the work, emphasizing that various groups contributed diligently. The Tekoites, known for their commitment (as they also repaired another section in [Nehemiah 3:27](/nehemiah/3-27 "The Tekoites Repair Another Section")), were an active and willing part of this communal endeavor, demonstrating a praiseworthy commitment to Jerusalem's restoration.
* **"but their nobles":** The conjunction "but" introduces a sharp and deliberate contrast, immediately drawing attention to an exception within the otherwise diligent Tekoite community. The focus shifts specifically to the "nobles," the influential and prominent members of Tekoa. This highlights a significant division within the community's commitment, setting the stage for the revelation of their uncooperative and prideful stance.
* **"put not their necks":** This phrase directly describes the nobles' refusal to engage in the physical labor. As a powerful idiom, it conveys their unwillingness to humble themselves, to bear the burden, or to submit to the demands of the work. It implies a deep-seated resistance, likely rooted in pride, a sense of entitlement, or a disdain for manual labor, especially for those of their elevated social standing. They were unwilling to stoop to what they considered undignified work.
* **"to the work of their Lord.":** This final phrase clarifies the sacred nature and ultimate recipient of the work. By identifying the task as "the work of their Lord" (God), the verse imbues the physical labor with profound spiritual significance. The nobles' refusal is thus framed not merely as a practical oversight or social snobbery, but as a direct spiritual failure—a lack of commitment, obedience, or reverence toward the divine will and purpose.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 3:5 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Contrast**, which is central to the verse's impact. It starkly juxtaposes the diligent participation of the general Tekoite community with the conspicuous refusal of their "nobles." This contrast serves to highlight the commendable effort of the common people while simultaneously condemning the apathy or pride of those in leadership. Furthermore, the phrase "put not their necks to the work" functions as a potent **Idiom** or **Metaphor**. This vivid imagery, drawing from the familiar agricultural practice of yoking animals, powerfully communicates the nobles' stubborn unwillingness to submit to labor or humble themselves for the task. It is a visual and visceral representation of their resistance. Finally, there is an element of **Synecdoche** or **Metonymy** in the use of "necks" to represent the nobles' entire being or willingness to serve. Their refusal to "put their necks" signifies a comprehensive lack of commitment and a failure of their whole person to engage in the divinely appointed work.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 3:5 offers profound theological insights into the nature of service, leadership, and communal responsibility within God's kingdom. It underscores that God's work often requires the collective, humble effort of all His people, regardless of social status or perceived importance. True spiritual nobility is not found in privilege or exemption from humble service, but in willing participation and submission to God's call. The nobles' refusal serves as a cautionary tale against pride, apathy, and the spiritual danger of allowing status or comfort to hinder one's commitment to divine purposes. It reminds us that every task undertaken for God, no matter how seemingly mundane, carries profound spiritual significance and demands a humble, willing heart, eager to bear the burden alongside others.

* [Philippians 2:3-8](/philippians/2-3 "Philippians 2:3-8 - Christ's Humility and Example")
* [Matthew 20:25-28](/matthew/20-25 "Matthew 20:25-28 - Jesus Teaches Servant Leadership")
* [James 2:14-17](/james/2-14 "James 2:14-17 - Faith Without Works Is Dead")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 3:5 presents a timeless challenge to believers today, particularly to those in positions of influence or leadership within the church or community. It compels us to examine our own hearts: are we truly "putting our necks" to the work of the Lord, or are we allowing pride, comfort, or a sense of entitlement to exempt us from humble, often unseen, service? God's kingdom advances through the diligent, collective effort of all its members, from the most prominent to the least. This verse reminds us that genuine faith is active and sacrificial, calling us to participate wholeheartedly in the building up of His church and the spread of His gospel, even when it requires personal cost, humility, or physical exertion. Leaders, especially, are called to model servant-hearted engagement, inspiring others not just by word, but by active participation and shared burden-bearing, recognizing that true honor in God's eyes comes through humble service.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of God's work might I be reluctant to "put my neck," perhaps due to pride, comfort, or a perceived sense of status?**
* **How does my personal commitment to humble service compare with the example of the Tekoite nobles, and with the ultimate example of Christ?**
* **If I am in a position of leadership, how am I modeling active participation and shared burden-bearing for those I lead?**
* **What specific "work of the Lord" is God calling me to engage in more fully, even if it seems menial or requires personal sacrifice?**

### FAQ

**What does "put not their necks to the work of their Lord" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: This powerful idiom means that the nobles of Tekoa refused to humble themselves and engage in the physical, laborious task of rebuilding the wall. It's an image drawn from yoking animals for plowing or pulling; to "put one's neck to the work" means to submit to the burden, to exert oneself, and to participate actively in the labor. Their refusal signifies a lack of willingness to contribute physically, perhaps due to pride, a sense of superiority, or a disdain for manual labor, especially given their elevated social status. Crucially, because the work was "of their Lord" (God), their refusal was not just a social slight but a spiritual failure to commit to a divinely ordained task, demonstrating a lack of obedience and devotion to God's will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah 3:5, with its stark contrast between diligent service and the refusal of the nobles, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Unlike the Tekoite nobles who refused to "put their necks to the work," Jesus, though infinitely exalted as God, willingly "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Christ's Humility and Obedience")). He did not consider His divine status a reason to avoid the most arduous and humiliating "work of His Lord"—the work of redemption, culminating in His death on the cross. Jesus actively engaged in the Father's will, declaring, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work" ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "Jesus' Mission")). He invites us to take His "yoke" upon us, promising that His yoke is "easy" and His burden "light" ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Jesus' Invitation to Rest")), a direct contrast to the heavy, self-imposed burdens of those who refuse to serve. The spiritual temple, the Church, is now being built, not with physical stones, but with living stones, with Christ as the cornerstone ([1 Peter 2:4-5](/1_peter/2-4 "Living Stones and the Spiritual House")). Every believer is called to contribute, empowered by the Spirit, to this ongoing "work of their Lord," following the supreme example of the One who came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "The Son of Man Came to Serve")).

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 3:27

After them the Tekoites repaired another piece, over against the great tower that lieth out, even unto the wall of Ophel.

2 Samuel 14:2

And Joab sent to Tekoah, and fetched thence a wise woman, and said unto her, I pray thee, feign thyself to be a mourner, and put on now mourning apparel, and anoint not thyself with oil, but be as a woman that had a long time mourned for the dead:

Jeremiah 27:8

And it shall come to pass, [that] the nation and kingdom which will not serve the same Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, and that will not put their neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon, that nation will I punish, saith the LORD, with the sword, and with the famine, and with the pestilence, until I have consumed them by his hand.

Jeremiah 27:2

Thus saith the LORD to me; Make thee bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck,

Jeremiah 27:12

¶ I spake also to Zedekiah king of Judah according to all these words, saying, Bring your necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him and his people, and live.

1 Corinthians 1:26

For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called]:

Judges 5:23

Curse ye Meroz, said the angel of the LORD, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty.