Nehemiah 4:6

So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work.

So built {H1129} we the wall {H2346}; and all the wall {H2346} was joined together {H7194} unto the half {H2677} thereof: for the people {H5971} had a mind {H3820} to work {H6213}.

So we kept building the wall, which was soon joined together and completed to half its height all the way around; because the people worked with a will.

So we rebuilt the wall until all of it was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.

So we built the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto half the height thereof: for the people had a mind to work.

Commentary

Context

Nehemiah 4:6 is a pivotal verse within the narrative of Nehemiah, detailing the arduous task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Chapter 4 specifically describes the intense opposition faced by Nehemiah and the Jewish returnees from neighboring adversaries like Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, who mocked and threatened their efforts. Despite these significant challenges and the constant need for vigilance, this verse marks a moment of remarkable progress, demonstrating the people's dedication to the work that Nehemiah had initiated (as described in Nehemiah 2:17, where Nehemiah called the people to rebuild Jerusalem's broken walls).

Key Themes

  • Diligence and Perseverance: The phrase "the people had a mind to work" is central to this verse. It speaks to an unyielding commitment and determination, indicating that their progress was not merely due to physical labor but a strong inner drive. This diligence allowed them to overcome significant external pressures.
  • Unity and Collective Effort: The success of "all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof" underscores the power of unity. Each person working on their assigned section contributed to a larger, collective achievement, illustrating the effectiveness of teamwork. This echoes the principle of unity of mind and purpose within a community.
  • Overcoming Opposition: In the face of scorn, threats, and conspiracy (Nehemiah 4:1-3), the people's focus on the task at hand prevented them from being deterred. Their "mind to work" served as a powerful antidote to discouragement and external distractions.
  • Divine Favor (Implied): While not explicitly stated, the rapid progress to "half thereof" suggests that God's hand was upon their diligent efforts, enabling them to achieve what seemed impossible.

Linguistic Insights

The King James Version's phrase "the people had a mind to work" is a beautiful rendering of the Hebrew, `lev la'asot` (ΧœΦ΅Χ‘ ΧœΦ·Χ’Φ²Χ©Χ‚Χ•ΦΉΧͺ). This literally translates to "a heart to do" or "a heart for work." This emphasizes that their commitment was not just superficial compliance but stemmed from a deep, internal willingness and eagerness. It was a matter of their inner disposition, a sincere desire to complete the task, which empowered their physical labor.

Practical Application

Nehemiah 4:6 offers timeless lessons for believers today. It highlights that significant achievements, especially in God's work, often require more than just resources or favorable circumstances; they demand a dedicated heart and a collective spirit. When facing opposition or daunting tasks in our lives or communities, this verse encourages us to:

  • Cultivate a "Heart to Work": Approach tasks with diligence and dedication, understanding that inner commitment fuels outward effort.
  • Embrace Unity: Recognize the power of working together with others, pooling strengths and complementing weaknesses to achieve shared goals for the Kingdom.
  • Persevere Through Opposition: Focus on the task at hand and remain steadfast despite criticism or discouragement, knowing that God blesses sincere effort.

This verse reminds us that when God's people set their hearts on doing His will, remarkable progress can be made, even under challenging conditions. For further reflection on diligence, consider Proverbs 10:4, which speaks to the prosperity brought by diligent hands.

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Cross-References

  • Philippians 2:13

    For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

  • Hebrews 13:21

    Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:3

    Moreover, because I have set my affection to the house of my God, I have of mine own proper good, of gold and silver, [which] I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house,

  • Nehemiah 6:15

    ΒΆ So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth [day] of [the month] Elul, in fifty and two days.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:14

    But who [am] I, and what [is] my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things [come] of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:17

    I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:18

    O LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, our fathers, keep this for ever in the imagination of the thoughts of the heart of thy people, and prepare their heart unto thee:
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