Nehemiah 5:18

KJV

Now [that] which was prepared [for me] daily [was] one ox [and] six choice sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine: yet for all this required not I the bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy upon this people.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now that which was prepared {H6213} for me daily {H3117} was one {H259} ox {H7794} and six {H8337} choice {H1305} sheep {H6629}; also fowls {H6833} were prepared {H6213} for me, and once in ten {H6235} days {H3117} store {H7235} of all sorts of wine {H3196}: yet for all {H5973} this required {H1245} not I the bread {H3899} of the governor {H6346}, because the bondage {H5656} was heavy {H3513} upon this people {H5971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Every day one ox, six choice sheep, and fowl were prepared for me, and every ten days a supply of all kinds of wine. Yet in spite of all this, I never claimed the governor's allowance, because the people were already bearing the heavy burden of their labor.

Berean Standard Bible

Each day one ox, six choice sheep, and some fowl were prepared for me, and once every ten days an abundance of all kinds of wine was provided. But I did not demand the food allotted to the governor, because the burden on the people was so heavy.

American Standard Version

Now that which was prepared for one day was one ox and six choice sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine: yet for all this I demanded not the bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy upon this people.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 5:18 offers a profound glimpse into the exemplary leadership of Nehemiah, showcasing his radical self-denial and profound empathy during the challenging reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls. Despite his rightful entitlement to a lavish daily provision as governor, Nehemiah consciously chose to forgo this allowance, recognizing the severe economic oppression and heavy burden weighing upon the Jewish people. This verse powerfully encapsulates his integrity, sacrificial service, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his community over personal privilege, setting a high standard for righteous governance and compassionate leadership.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 5:18 stands as the powerful conclusion to a pivotal chapter that addresses a severe internal social crisis. Immediately preceding this verse, Nehemiah recounts the widespread distress among the Jewish people, who, burdened by famine, heavy taxes, and the costs of rebuilding, were forced into debt, mortgaging their lands, and even selling their children into slavery to survive ([Nehemiah 5:1-5](/nehemiah/5-1 "Nehemiah 5:1-5 - The People's Distress")). Nehemiah's righteous indignation at the oppressive practices of the nobles and officials, who were charging exorbitant interest and exploiting their own brethren, is detailed in [Nehemiah 5:6-13](/nehemiah/5-6 "Nehemiah 5:6-13 - Nehemiah's Rebuke of the Nobles"). He challenged them to restore what they had taken and to lend without interest. Verse 18 then serves as a stark contrast and a powerful example of Nehemiah's own ethical conduct, demonstrating that he practiced what he preached. While other governors, including his predecessors, had burdened the people with their own expenses ([Nehemiah 5:15](/nehemiah/5-15 "Nehemiah 5:15 - Nehemiah's Predecessors")), Nehemiah chose a path of personal sacrifice, reinforcing the moral authority of his leadership.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Achaemenid Persian Empire, governors (peḥah) of satrapies or provinces like Judah were typically entitled to substantial provisions from the local populace to support their household, retinue, and administrative functions. This often included food, wine, and other necessities, which were collected as a form of tax or tribute. Such provisions could be quite burdensome on the people, especially in times of economic hardship, as they added to existing imperial taxes and local levies. Nehemiah served as governor of Judah (Yehud) under King Artaxerxes I (c. 445 BCE). The period was marked by significant economic strain, partly due to the ongoing rebuilding efforts, but also likely from drought, poor harvests, and the general economic conditions of a post-exilic community trying to re-establish itself. The "bondage" mentioned in the verse refers to the severe economic oppression, debt-slavery, and general hardship that had gripped the community, exacerbated by the exploitative practices of some Jewish elite. Nehemiah's refusal of his rightful allowance was an extraordinary act of self-denial, directly counter to the prevailing cultural norms and expectations for officials of his rank.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of Nehemiah and broader biblical theology. It exemplifies **Selfless Leadership**, demonstrating that true authority is exercised through service and sacrifice rather than personal gain. Nehemiah's actions stand in stark contrast to the self-serving practices of many leaders, both within the narrative and throughout history, underscoring the biblical ideal of a shepherd-leader who cares for the flock more than for personal profit ([Ezekiel 34:1-10](/ezekiel/34-1 "Ezekiel 34:1-10 - Prophecy Against the Shepherds of Israel")). The theme of **Empathy and Compassion** is also central, as Nehemiah's decision is explicitly driven by his deep understanding and feeling for the "heavy bondage" of his people. His actions embody the call to bear one another's burdens ([Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear One Another's Burdens")) and to "weep with those who weep" ([Romans 12:15](/romans/12-15 "Romans 12:15 - Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep")). Finally, the verse highlights **Sacrificial Service**, illustrating that authentic spiritual and civic leadership often demands personal cost and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of the community over individual comfort or entitlement. This prefigures the ultimate example of sacrificial love found in the person of Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Required (Hebrew, _biqqashti'_):** The verb בִּקַּשְׁתִּי (biqqashti) is from the root בָּקַשׁ (baqash), meaning "to seek," "to ask," "to demand," or "to require." The use of the negative particle לֹא (lo, "not") before it, "לֹא בִקַּשְׁתִּי" (lo biqqashti), emphasizes Nehemiah's active and deliberate choice not to demand or seek his entitlement. It's not merely that he didn't receive it, but that he consciously refused to impose the customary governor's provisions on a struggling populace, highlighting his proactive ethical stance.
* **Bondage (Hebrew, _ha'avodah'_):** The noun הָעֲבֹדָה (ha'avodah), meaning "the service," "the labor," or "the work," when paired with the adjective קָשָׁה (qashah, "hard" or "heavy"), forms the phrase "הָעֲבֹדָה קָשָׁה" (ha'avodah qashah), "the heavy service" or "the hard labor." This term powerfully conveys the severe economic and social oppression under which the people groaned. It evokes echoes of the Israelites' "hard service" in Egypt ([Exodus 1:14](/exodus/1-14 "Exodus 1:14 - Israel's Hard Service in Egypt")), suggesting a parallel between their current financial plight and past physical slavery, making Nehemiah's act of self-denial even more poignant and impactful.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now [that] which was prepared [for me] daily [was] one ox [and] six choice sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine:"** This opening clause details the lavish scale of the provisions Nehemiah was entitled to as governor. The daily supply of an ox and six choice sheep, along with fowl, indicates a substantial household and retinue, far beyond the needs of a single individual. The addition of "all sorts of wine" every ten days further underscores the luxurious and abundant nature of the allowance. This description serves to highlight the magnitude of Nehemiah's subsequent sacrifice, emphasizing what he willingly gave up.
* **"yet for all this required not I the bread of the governor,"** This is the pivotal turning point of the verse, introduced by the strong adversative "yet for all this." Despite the extensive and customary provisions detailed, Nehemiah explicitly states that he "required not" (lo biqqashti) the "bread of the governor." "Bread" here is a synecdoche for all the provisions and emoluments due to his office. This phrase encapsulates his deliberate refusal to exploit his position for personal gain, choosing instead to bear his own expenses rather than burdening the people.
* **"because the bondage was heavy upon this people."** This final clause provides the profound motivation for Nehemiah's extraordinary act of self-denial. His decision was not arbitrary or for mere show, but deeply rooted in his compassionate awareness of the severe economic and social "bondage" (ha'avodah qashah) afflicting the people. This demonstrates a leadership driven by empathy and a commitment to alleviating suffering, directly linking his personal sacrifice to the communal burden. It reveals the heart of a true servant-leader who prioritizes the well-being of his constituents above his own comfort and entitlement.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 5:18 employs several effective literary devices. The most prominent is **Contrast**, which is central to the verse's impact. The elaborate description of the governor's rightful provisions (one ox, six choice sheep, fowls, various wines) is set in stark contrast to Nehemiah's refusal to accept them, particularly in light of the people's "heavy bondage." This antithesis highlights Nehemiah's exceptional character and ethical leadership. The verse also functions as an **Exemplum**, presenting Nehemiah's actions as a moral example for all leaders, especially those in positions of power and privilege. His conduct serves as a direct counterpoint to the exploitative practices of the nobles described earlier in the chapter, reinforcing the moral imperative for justice and compassion. Furthermore, the phrase "the bread of the governor" uses **Synecdoche**, where "bread" represents the entire array of provisions and financial benefits associated with the governor's office, making the refusal more comprehensive and impactful.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 5:18 offers a powerful theological statement about the nature of righteous leadership and the ethical use of power. It underscores the divine expectation for those in authority to prioritize the welfare of the vulnerable over personal gain, reflecting God's own character as a defender of the oppressed and a provider for the poor. Nehemiah's actions embody the principle that true authority is found in sacrificial service, a concept deeply woven into the fabric of biblical ethics, from the Mosaic Law's provisions for the poor to the prophetic denunciations of unjust rulers. His refusal to burden the people, despite his entitlement, speaks to a profound understanding that leadership is a stewardship, not an opportunity for exploitation. This verse challenges believers to consider how they steward their own resources and influence, particularly in relation to those who are struggling, and to live out a faith that is tangibly expressed through compassion and self-denial for the common good.

* [Deuteronomy 15:7-8](/deuteronomy/15-7 "Deuteronomy 15:7-8 - Lending to the Poor")
* [Proverbs 28:27](/proverbs/28-27 "Proverbs 28:27 - Giving to the Poor")
* [Matthew 20:26-28](/matthew/20-26 "Matthew 20:26-28 - Servant Leadership")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 5:18 presents a timeless and challenging model for leadership and personal integrity that resonates deeply in any generation. It calls us to examine our own positions of influence, whether in family, church, workplace, or community, and to ask whether our actions are truly serving the well-being of others or primarily our own comfort and advancement. Nehemiah's profound empathy, demonstrated by his willingness to forgo significant personal benefit because "the bondage was heavy upon this people," compels us to cultivate a similar sensitivity to the burdens and struggles of those around us. It reminds us that authentic compassion often requires tangible sacrifice—a willingness to give up what is rightfully ours, or even to incur personal cost, for the sake of alleviating another's hardship. This verse is a powerful antidote to self-serving ambition, urging us towards a life of generous stewardship and humble service that genuinely seeks the flourishing of others, reflecting the very heart of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I hold a position of influence or privilege, and how does Nehemiah's example challenge me to use that position for the benefit of others rather than solely my own?**
* **What "bondage" or heavy burdens do I see weighing on people in my community or sphere of influence, and how might I, like Nehemiah, make a personal sacrifice to alleviate their struggles?**
* **How does my personal consumption and lifestyle reflect (or fail to reflect) a sensitivity to the economic realities and hardships faced by others, particularly those less fortunate?**
* **What "bread of the governor" am I entitled to, and what might it look like to "require not" it for the sake of sacrificial service?**

### FAQ
**Why was Nehemiah entitled to such lavish provisions as governor?**

Answer: As a governor (peḥah) appointed by the Persian king, Nehemiah was entitled to regular provisions from the local populace to support his household, administrative staff, and official duties. This was a standard practice in the Persian Empire, where governors were expected to be maintained by the regions they governed. The detailed list in Nehemiah 5:18—one ox, six choice sheep daily, fowls, and wine every ten days—illustrates the significant resources required to maintain a governor's establishment, which often included a large retinue of servants, guards, and officials. These provisions were essentially a form of taxation or tribute levied on the people for the upkeep of imperial administration.

**What exactly was the "bondage" that was heavy upon the people?**

Answer: The "bondage" (Hebrew: *ha'avodah qashah*, "the heavy service" or "the hard labor") refers primarily to the severe economic distress and social oppression experienced by the Jewish people in Judah at that time. As described in [Nehemiah 5:1-5](/nehemiah/5-1 "Nehemiah 5:1-5 - The People's Distress"), this included widespread famine, heavy imperial taxes, and the financial strain of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. Many were forced to mortgage their fields, vineyards, and houses to pay taxes or buy food. The most grievous aspect was the practice of some wealthy Jewish nobles and officials who were lending money at exorbitant interest rates, leading to debt-slavery where families had to sell their sons and daughters into servitude to survive. Nehemiah's refusal of his provisions was a direct response to this crushing economic and social burden.

**How did Nehemiah's personal sacrifice impact the community and his leadership?**

Answer: Nehemiah's decision to forgo his rightful provisions had a profound impact on both the community and his moral authority as a leader. First, it directly eased the financial burden on the people, however incrementally, by removing one source of taxation. More significantly, it served as a powerful example of integrity and selflessness, standing in stark contrast to the exploitative practices of the nobles he had just rebuked. His actions demonstrated genuine empathy and solidarity with the suffering populace, fostering trust and respect. This personal sacrifice lent immense moral weight to his leadership, enabling him to effectively challenge corruption and unite the people in the monumental task of rebuilding the walls, knowing their leader shared their burdens rather than profiting from them. It was a tangible expression of servant leadership, inspiring others to act justly and generously.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah's profound act of self-denial in Nehemiah 5:18, where he forgoes his rightful provisions due to the "heavy bondage" on his people, serves as a powerful Old Testament foreshadowing of the ultimate self-emptying of Jesus Christ. Just as Nehemiah, though entitled to comfort and luxury, chose to bear the burden of his people, so too did Christ, though eternally divine and rich in glory, "make himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")). The Apostle Paul articulates this divine condescension, stating, "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich" ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty for Our Riches")). Nehemiah's refusal of the "bread of the governor" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, who did not come "to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Christ's entire earthly ministry, culminating in His death on the cross, was an act of supreme self-sacrifice, bearing the heavy "bondage" of sin and death that weighed upon humanity, so that we might be set free and enter into His abundant life ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Abundant Life")). Nehemiah's compassionate leadership, therefore, points us to the Lamb of God, who truly takes away the sin of the world by bearing our burdens and offering Himself as the ultimate provision.

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

1 Kings 4:22

And Solomon's provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal,

1 Kings 4:23

Ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and an hundred sheep, beside harts, and roebucks, and fallowdeer, and fatted fowl.

Psalms 37:21

¶ The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth.

Psalms 37:26

[He is] ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed [is] blessed.

Nehemiah 5:14

¶ Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, [that is], twelve years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor.

Nehemiah 5:15

But the former governors that [had been] before me were chargeable unto the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of silver; yea, even their servants bare rule over the people: but so did not I, because of the fear of God.