Nehemiah 5:7

KJV

Then I consulted with myself, and I rebuked the nobles, and the rulers, and said unto them, Ye exact usury, every one of his brother. And I set a great assembly against them.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then I consulted {H4427} with myself {H3820}, and I rebuked {H7378} the nobles {H2715}, and the rulers {H5461}, and said {H559} unto them, Ye exact {H5378}{H5383}{H5375} usury {H4855}, every one {H376} of his brother {H251}. And I set {H5414} a great {H1419} assembly {H6952} against them.

Complete Jewish Bible

I thought the matter over and then took issue with the nobles and rulers. I charged them, "You are lending against pledges, everyone to his brother"; and I summoned a great assembly to deal with them.

Berean Standard Bible

and after serious thought I rebuked the nobles and officials, saying, “You are exacting usury from your own brothers!” So I called a large assembly against them

American Standard Version

Then I consulted with myself, and contended with the nobles and the rulers, and said unto them, Ye exact usury, every one of his brother. And I held a great assembly against them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 5:7 captures a critical moment in the post-exilic rebuilding of Jerusalem, where Nehemiah, having deeply considered the plight of the people, courageously confronts the Jewish nobles and rulers who were exploiting their fellow Israelites through usury. This verse highlights Nehemiah's decisive leadership, his commitment to social justice, and his willingness to publicly challenge powerful figures to uphold God's covenant standards within the community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 5:7 marks a dramatic shift in the narrative from external opposition to internal corruption. Chapters 1-4 detail the initial challenges of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls, facing ridicule, threats, and attempts at sabotage from surrounding enemies like Sanballat and Tobiah. However, chapter 5 reveals an even more insidious threat: economic exploitation within the Jewish community itself. Verses 1-5 vividly describe the cries of the poor, who, burdened by taxes, famine, and the need to pay for food and building materials, were forced to mortgage their fields, vineyards, and even sell their children into slavery to their wealthier brethren. Nehemiah's response in verse 6, where he expresses great anger, sets the stage for his personal reflection and subsequent confrontation in verse 7, demonstrating that true restoration requires not only physical rebuilding but also moral and social rectitude.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the return from Babylonian exile was one of immense hardship for the Jewish community. They faced economic scarcity, heavy Persian taxation, and the immense labor of rebuilding their city and temple. Within this context, the practice of charging interest (usury) on loans to fellow Israelites was a direct violation of Mosaic Law, explicitly forbidden in passages like [Exodus 22:25](/exodus/22-25 "Exodus 22:25 - The Law on Lending to the Poor") and [Deuteronomy 23:19-20](/deuteronomy/23-19 "Deuteronomy 23:19-20 - Prohibition of Usury"). While interest could be charged to foreigners, it was considered an act of oppression when applied to a "brother" or fellow covenant member, especially the poor, as it could lead to perpetual debt and even debt slavery, undermining the very fabric of Israelite society and the principles of the Mosaic covenant. Nehemiah's actions reflect an understanding of these laws and the devastating social consequences of their violation.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 5:7 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Nehemiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Righteous Leadership and Discernment**, showcasing Nehemiah's personal integrity and his disciplined process of internal reflection and prayer before taking decisive action against injustice. His leadership is not merely administrative but deeply spiritual and ethical, prioritizing the welfare of the community over personal gain or political expediency. Secondly, the verse highlights **Social Justice and Covenant Fidelity**, emphasizing God's unwavering concern for the poor and oppressed. The exploitation of the vulnerable by the powerful is presented as a grave sin, a direct affront to the covenant principles that bound Israel together as God's people. This echoes the prophetic calls for justice found throughout the Old Testament, such as in [Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Let Justice Roll Down"). Finally, the confrontation in this verse reinforces the theme of **Community Unity and Holiness**, demonstrating that internal strife and moral compromise can be as destructive to God's work as external opposition. Nehemiah's public rebuke and assembly aim to restore the community's moral integrity and ensure that the rebuilding efforts are founded on principles of righteousness and mutual support, vital for a people called to be holy unto the Lord, as outlined in [Leviticus 19:2](/leviticus/19-2 "Leviticus 19:2 - Be Holy, for I am Holy").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **consulted with myself (Hebrew, _va'etbonen'_):** This verb, derived from the root `בִּין` (bin), meaning "to understand," "to discern," or "to consider deeply," implies a process of careful, thoughtful, and often prayerful deliberation. It is not a rash or impulsive reaction but a measured, strategic internal processing of the situation, likely involving seeking divine wisdom and understanding the full implications of the injustice. It signifies Nehemiah's spiritual maturity and his commitment to wise leadership.
* **rebuked (Hebrew, _va'arivah'_):** From the root `רִיב` (riv), meaning "to contend," "to strive," "to argue," or "to bring a charge against." This word suggests a formal, confrontational challenge, often with legal or judicial connotations. Nehemiah is not merely expressing displeasure but is bringing a direct accusation, effectively putting the nobles and rulers on trial for their actions, demanding accountability for their violation of God's law and social ethics.
* **usury (Hebrew, _neshek'_):** This term specifically refers to interest charged on a loan, particularly among fellow Israelites. The root `נָשַׁךְ` (nashak) means "to bite" or "to sting," vividly portraying the oppressive and painful nature of such interest, which metaphorically "bites" or "stings" the borrower, gradually consuming their resources and leading to destitution. It underscores the exploitative character of the practice, which Nehemiah so vehemently opposes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then I consulted with myself":** This phrase reveals Nehemiah's internal processing. Before acting, he takes time for deep thought and discernment, likely including prayer. This is a hallmark of wise leadership, indicating that his subsequent actions are not impulsive but the result of careful consideration of the facts, the law, and God's will. It demonstrates personal integrity and a strategic approach to confronting a sensitive issue.
* **"and I rebuked the nobles, and the rulers, and said unto them":** This signifies Nehemiah's courageous and direct confrontation of the most powerful and influential members of the community. He does not shy away from challenging those in authority who are perpetrating injustice. The act of "rebuking" implies a strong, authoritative correction, holding them accountable for their actions and articulating the wrong they have committed.
* **"Ye exact usury, every one of his brother":** This is the precise accusation. Nehemiah identifies the specific sin: charging interest on loans to fellow Israelites. The phrase "every one of his brother" emphasizes the violation of covenantal solidarity and brotherhood, highlighting that this was not merely an economic transaction but a betrayal of community and divine law. It underscores the moral gravity of exploiting one's own people.
* **"And I set a great assembly against them":** This final clause indicates the public and official nature of Nehemiah's response. He doesn't just privately admonish them; he convenes a large public gathering. This public forum serves multiple purposes: it ensures transparency, puts public pressure on the offenders, establishes accountability, and makes a clear statement to the entire community that such practices are unacceptable and will be addressed. It transforms a private grievance into a matter of public justice and communal responsibility.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 5:7 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Direct Discourse**, as Nehemiah's exact words of rebuke ("Ye exact usury, every one of his brother") are quoted, lending immediacy and authenticity to the confrontation. There is a strong sense of **Juxtaposition** between Nehemiah's quiet, internal deliberation ("consulted with myself") and his bold, public action ("rebuked the nobles... and I set a great assembly against them"), highlighting the transition from personal conviction to public courage. The very term "usury" (Hebrew *neshek*) carries an implied **Metaphor** or **Imagery**, evoking the "bite" or "sting" of a serpent, powerfully conveying the painful and destructive impact of exploitative interest on the poor. Finally, the verse presents a clear **Antithesis** between the ideal of covenantal brotherhood and mutual support within Israel and the harsh reality of economic exploitation and oppression by those who should have been protectors.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 5:7 serves as a potent reminder that genuine spiritual revival and national restoration are inextricably linked to social justice and ethical conduct within the community of faith. Nehemiah's righteous indignation and decisive action reflect God's own character, which consistently champions the cause of the poor and condemns the oppression of the vulnerable. The sin of usury, as exposed here, was not merely an economic misstep but a profound violation of the covenant relationship, undermining the very principles of love for neighbor and communal solidarity that God established for Israel. This passage teaches that true worship and faithfulness to God must manifest in practical righteousness and a commitment to equitable dealings among believers, ensuring that no one is exploited for another's gain.

* [Exodus 22:25](/exodus/22-25 "Exodus 22:25 - Prohibition of Usury to the Poor")
* [Leviticus 25:35-37](/leviticus/25-35 "Leviticus 25:35-37 - Lending Without Interest to a Brother")
* [Deuteronomy 23:19-20](/deuteronomy/23-19 "Deuteronomy 23:19-20 - Rules on Interest to Fellow Israelites and Foreigners")
* [Proverbs 28:27](/proverbs/28-27 "Proverbs 28:27 - Giving to the Poor")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 5:7 provides a powerful blueprint for courageous and compassionate leadership in any era. It challenges believers to not only be aware of injustice but to act decisively against it, even when it involves confronting those in positions of power or influence within our own communities. Like Nehemiah, we are called to cultivate a deep sense of discernment and righteous indignation, allowing God's heart for justice to shape our responses. This means moving beyond passive observation to active intervention, whether in addressing economic exploitation, social inequalities, or any form of oppression that undermines the dignity of individuals created in God's image. The passage also reminds us that the health of a spiritual community is measured not just by its outward activities but by the ethical integrity of its internal relationships and its commitment to caring for its most vulnerable members. We are urged to examine our own practices and systems to ensure they reflect biblical principles of fairness, generosity, and compassion, rather than perpetuating cycles of debt or disadvantage.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do we, like Nehemiah, cultivate a spirit of discernment and prayerful consideration before confronting difficult issues or injustices in our lives or communities?**
* **What are contemporary forms of "usury" or economic injustice that the church is called to identify and address within its own ranks or in the broader society?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, courageously speak truth to power, even when it means challenging those in positions of influence or authority within our spiritual or social circles?**
* **How can our local church community better embody the principles of economic justice and care for the poor, ensuring that no "brother" or "sister" is exploited?**

### FAQ
**Why was Nehemiah's internal consultation important before he acted?**

Answer: Nehemiah's act of "consulting with myself" (Hebrew: *va'etbonen*) signifies deep, thoughtful, and perhaps prayerful consideration. This was crucial because he was about to confront powerful individuals—the nobles and rulers—who were exploiting the vulnerable. A rash or emotional reaction could have backfired, leading to greater division or undermining his authority. His deliberate process demonstrates wise leadership, strategic thinking, and a reliance on divine wisdom, ensuring his actions were grounded in conviction and principle rather than impulsivity. It sets an example for leaders to seek discernment before taking on complex and sensitive issues.

**What was wrong with "usury" (charging interest) in ancient Israel, and how does it apply today?**

Answer: In ancient Israel, the Mosaic Law strictly prohibited charging interest on loans to fellow Israelites, especially the poor (e.g., [Exodus 22:25](/exodus/22-25 "Exodus 22:25 - The Law on Lending to the Poor"), [Leviticus 25:36-37](/leviticus/25-36 "Leviticus 25:36-37 - Lending Without Interest"), [Deuteronomy 23:19-20](/deuteronomy/23-19 "Deuteronomy 23:19-20 - Rules on Interest")). This prohibition was rooted in the covenantal understanding of brotherhood and communal solidarity. Charging interest to a "brother" was seen as exploiting their distress, leading to perpetual debt, poverty, and even debt slavery, which undermined the social fabric and God's design for a just society. While modern financial systems are complex and charging interest is common, the underlying principle remains: God condemns exploitative financial practices that oppress the poor and vulnerable. This applies today to predatory lending, exorbitant interest rates that trap people in debt, and any economic system that prioritizes profit over human dignity and justice, particularly within the community of faith.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah's righteous indignation and courageous confrontation of injustice in Nehemiah 5:7 powerfully foreshadow the ministry of Jesus Christ. Just as Nehemiah rebuked those who exploited their "brothers" and violated God's law, Jesus, the ultimate righteous leader, consistently challenged the religious and political establishments of His day for their hypocrisy and oppression. His cleansing of the Temple, where He overturned the tables of money-changers and those selling doves, was a direct act of confronting economic exploitation and perversion of worship, declaring, "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of robbers" ([Matthew 21:13](/matthew/21-13 "Matthew 21:13 - Jesus Cleanses the Temple")). Furthermore, Nehemiah's deep concern for the poor and the oppressed reflects the very heart of God, which is supremely revealed in Christ's ministry. Jesus proclaimed His mission to "preach good news to the poor... to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed" ([Luke 4:18](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18 - Jesus' Mission Statement")). Ultimately, while Nehemiah could only rebuke and set an assembly, Jesus not only confronted sin but bore its full weight on the cross, providing the perfect solution to humanity's brokenness and injustice. Through His atoning sacrifice, He establishes a new covenant community, the Church, called to embody true justice and righteousness, empowered by the Spirit to live out the principles of love and equity that Nehemiah championed, anticipating the full realization of God's just kingdom where all exploitation will cease ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain")).

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

Leviticus 25:36

Take thou no usury of him, or increase: but fear thy God; that thy brother may live with thee.

Deuteronomy 23:19

Thou shalt not lend upon usury to thy brother; usury of money, usury of victuals, usury of any thing that is lent upon usury:

Deuteronomy 23:20

Unto a stranger thou mayest lend upon usury; but unto thy brother thou shalt not lend upon usury: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all that thou settest thine hand to in the land whither thou goest to possess it.

Exodus 22:25

¶ If thou lend money to [any of] my people [that is] poor by thee, thou shalt not be to him as an usurer, neither shalt thou lay upon him usury.

Deuteronomy 24:10

When thou dost lend thy brother any thing, thou shalt not go into his house to fetch his pledge.

Deuteronomy 24:13

In any case thou shalt deliver him the pledge again when the sun goeth down, that he may sleep in his own raiment, and bless thee: and it shall be righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God.

Psalms 15:5

[He that] putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these [things] shall never be moved.