Nehemiah 7:70

KJV

And some of the chief of the fathers gave unto the work. The Tirshatha gave to the treasure a thousand drams of gold, fifty basons, five hundred and thirty priests' garments.

KJV (with Strong's)

And some of {H7117} the chief {H7218} of the fathers {H1} gave {H5414} unto the work {H4399}. The Tirshatha {H8660} gave {H5414} to the treasure {H214} a thousand {H505} drams {H1871} of gold {H2091}, fifty {H2572} basons {H4219}, five {H2568} hundred {H3967} and thirty {H7970} priests {H3548}' garments {H3801}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Some from among the heads of fathers' clans made contributions for the work. The Tirshata contributed to the treasury a thousand gold darkmonim [twentyone pounds], fifty basins and 530 tunics for the cohanim.

Berean Standard Bible

Some of the heads of the families contributed to the project. The governor gave to the treasury 1,000 darics of gold, 50 bowls, and 530 priestly garments.

American Standard Version

And some from among the heads of fathers’ houses gave unto the work. The governor gave to the treasury a thousand darics of gold, fifty basins, five hundred and thirty priests’ garments.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 7:70 records a significant act of generosity from the leaders of the returning exiles, specifically highlighting the immense contribution of "The Tirshatha" (Nehemiah himself) towards the work of rebuilding and re-establishing the community's spiritual life in Jerusalem. This verse, situated within the broader context of the census and the organization of the post-exilic community, underscores the commitment of those in authority to fund the restoration of the Temple's services and the support of the priesthood, setting a powerful example for the people and demonstrating a collective dedication to God's purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 7:70 is part of a larger section (Nehemiah 7:6-73) that lists the names and numbers of those who returned from Babylonian exile, effectively serving as a second census following that in Ezra 2. This detailed register establishes the identity and lineage of the repatriated community, crucial for their re-establishment in the land. Immediately preceding this verse, the text concludes the census list, and the verses that follow (Nehemiah 7:71-72) continue to detail the contributions made by other leaders and the general populace. This placement emphasizes that following the successful rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah 1-6), the next vital step was to organize the community and secure the necessary resources for the ongoing spiritual and civic restoration, particularly for the Temple and its functions. The contributions here directly precede the great assembly and reading of the Law in Nehemiah 8, indicating a renewed focus on worship and covenant fidelity.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events described in Nehemiah occur during the Persian period, specifically in the mid-5th century BCE, roughly a century after the initial return from exile. The "Tirshatha" is a Persian administrative title, often translated as "governor" or "commissioner," and in the book of Nehemiah, it refers to Nehemiah himself, appointed by King Artaxerxes I. This highlights the political authority under which Nehemiah operated, yet his personal contribution transcends mere administrative duty, demonstrating deep religious commitment. The act of giving "drams of gold," "basins," and "priests' garments" reflects the specific needs of a community rebuilding its sacred infrastructure. Gold was a primary medium of exchange and a valuable commodity for temple adornment and vessels. Basins were essential for various ritual purifications and sacrifices in the Temple. Priests' garments were critical for the proper functioning of the Levitical priesthood, enabling them to perform their duties according to Mosaic Law, as detailed in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments") and [Leviticus 8](/leviticus/8 "Leviticus 8 - Consecration of Priests"). This generous giving was a cultural norm for supporting religious institutions in the ancient Near East, but for Israel, it was also an act of covenant faithfulness.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of Nehemiah and the broader post-exilic narrative. Firstly, it exemplifies **generosity and sacrifice** for God's work, showing that the restoration was not merely a matter of physical rebuilding but also of financial and material commitment. The significant contributions, especially from the highest authority, underscore the community's willingness to invest in their spiritual heritage. Secondly, it highlights **leadership by example**. Nehemiah, as the Tirshatha, sets the standard for giving, which likely inspired others to contribute, a theme consistent with his leadership throughout the book, from his initial prayer and petition in [Nehemiah 1](/nehemiah/1 "Nehemiah 1 - Nehemiah's Prayer") to his tireless efforts in rebuilding the wall (e.g., [Nehemiah 4](/nehemiah/4 "Nehemiah 4 - Opposition to the Wall")). Thirdly, the specific items donated emphasize the theme of **support for God's house and priesthood**. The focus on gold, basins, and priestly garments indicates a clear intent to restore proper worship and ensure the functionality of the Temple and its dedicated servants. This echoes earlier support for the Temple, such as the contributions for its initial rebuilding under Zerubbabel as recorded in [Ezra 1:4-6](/ezra/1-4 "Ezra 1:4-6 - Initial Contributions for the Temple"), reinforcing the continuous importance of providing for the spiritual center of the nation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tirshatha (Persian, _tirshātā'_):** This is a Persian loanword, likely meaning "governor" or "commissioner." In the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, it specifically refers to the Persian-appointed governor of Judah. In this context, it unequivocally points to Nehemiah himself, highlighting his official capacity and the significant authority he wielded. His personal contribution, therefore, carries immense weight, demonstrating that even the highest civil authority was personally invested in the spiritual and material restoration of Jerusalem.
* **Drams (Hebrew, _'adarkôn_):** The KJV translation "drams" refers to a unit of weight, specifically a Persian gold coin known as a *daric*. A *daric* was a standard gold coin in the Persian Empire, weighing approximately 8.4 grams (about 0.29 ounces) of pure gold. "A thousand drams of gold" (1,000 darics) would have been an extremely substantial sum, indicating a truly magnificent and sacrificial donation. This amount underscores the immense personal wealth and generosity of the Tirshatha.
* **Basins (Hebrew, _mizrāq_):** These were bowls or large vessels, typically made of precious metals, used in the Temple for various cultic purposes. They were essential for holding the blood of sacrifices, for libations, or for washing during ritual purification. Their inclusion in the donation signifies a direct contribution to the practical necessities of Temple worship and service, ensuring that the restored sanctuary could function according to the prescribed rituals.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And some of the chief of the fathers gave unto the work."**: This opening clause establishes a broader context of generosity within the leadership. "Chief of the fathers" refers to the heads of the ancestral houses or clans, indicating that prominent families and tribal leaders were also making significant contributions. This collective action highlights a widespread commitment among the elite to support the ongoing work of restoration, encompassing both the physical infrastructure and the spiritual life of the community.
* **"The Tirshatha gave to the treasure a thousand drams of gold,"**: This is the focal point of the verse, singling out the governor, Nehemiah, for his extraordinary contribution. The "treasure" refers to the Temple treasury, the repository for donations and resources designated for the sanctuary and its operations. The "thousand drams of gold" (1,000 darics) represents an immense sum, emphasizing the magnitude of Nehemiah's personal sacrifice and his unparalleled commitment to the cause, setting a benchmark for generosity.
* **"fifty basons,"**: In addition to the gold, Nehemiah also contributed fifty basins. As previously noted, these were crucial vessels for Temple service, used in rituals of sacrifice and purification. This specific donation underscores a practical concern for the functionality of the Temple, ensuring that the necessary implements were available for the priests to perform their duties. It reflects a comprehensive understanding of the needs for proper worship.
* **"five hundred and thirty priests' garments."**: The final item in Nehemiah's donation is a substantial number of garments specifically for the priests. These garments were not merely clothing but were prescribed attire for the Levitical priests, essential for their consecration and for performing their sacred duties (cf. [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments")). Providing such a large quantity indicates a deep concern for the proper establishment and support of the priesthood, ensuring that enough priests could be adequately clothed to serve in the restored Temple, thereby facilitating the full resumption of sacrificial and worship practices.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to emphasize its message. **Exemplar** is prominently displayed, as the actions of "the chief of the fathers" and especially "The Tirshatha" serve as a model for the entire community. Nehemiah's specific, large-scale donation highlights his role as a leader who not only commands but also personally invests, providing a tangible example of devotion. There is also an element of **Emphasis** through the detailed enumeration of the costly items donated—gold, basins, and garments. This specific listing underscores the substantial nature of the contributions and the significant resources required for the restoration project. Furthermore, the act of giving itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing the community's renewed commitment to God, their spiritual revival, and their dedication to re-establishing the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem. The gifts are not just material goods; they are expressions of a rebuilt covenant relationship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nehemiah 7:70 speaks profoundly to the theological principle of stewardship and the importance of supporting God's work. It demonstrates that true spiritual revival is often accompanied by tangible acts of generosity and sacrifice. The leaders, particularly Nehemiah, understood that the re-establishment of Jerusalem was not merely a political or architectural endeavor but fundamentally a spiritual one, requiring the restoration of proper worship and the support of those dedicated to serving God. Their giving was an act of worship, a tangible expression of their faith and commitment to the covenant. This act of providing for the Temple and its ministers echoes the Mosaic Law's provisions for tithes and offerings, emphasizing that faithful living includes material support for the community's spiritual infrastructure.

* [Exodus 35:4-9](/exodus/35-4 "Exodus 35:4-9 - Offerings for the Tabernacle")
* [1 Chronicles 29:6-9](/1_chronicles/29-6 "1 Chronicles 29:6-9 - Contributions for the Temple")
* [2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 7:70 offers timeless lessons for believers today regarding our role in supporting the work of God's kingdom. Just as the returning exiles invested their precious resources in rebuilding the physical and spiritual infrastructure of Jerusalem, we are called to contribute to the ongoing mission of the Church and the spread of the Gospel. This verse challenges us to consider our own level of generosity, not just financially, but also in terms of our time, talents, and energy. Leaders, in particular, are given a powerful example in Nehemiah, who modeled sacrificial giving from the highest position of authority. Our contributions, whether large or small, enable ministries to flourish, support those who dedicate their lives to spiritual service, and facilitate the proclamation of God's truth to a world in need. Giving is not merely an obligation but a privilege, an act of worship that reflects a heart devoted to God's purposes and a recognition that all we have ultimately belongs to Him. It reminds us that our investment in God's kingdom has eternal significance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the example of Nehemiah's generosity challenge my own commitment to supporting God's work today?**
* **In what ways can I, as a leader (in my family, church, or community), model sacrificial giving and commitment?**
* **What "treasures" (resources, time, talents) am I currently holding back that God might be calling me to contribute to His kingdom?**
* **How does my giving reflect my belief in the importance of spiritual infrastructure and the support of those who serve God?**

### FAQ
**Was Nehemiah's contribution truly exceptional, or was it just expected of a governor?**

Answer: While it was expected for leaders to contribute, Nehemiah's specific donation of "a thousand drams of gold, fifty basons, five hundred and thirty priests' garments" was exceptionally large and noteworthy. A "dram" was a *daric*, a significant gold coin, making 1,000 darics an immense sum. This was not merely a token contribution but a substantial personal sacrifice that went beyond mere obligation, demonstrating his deep personal investment and setting a powerful example for the entire community. It underscored his commitment not just as a political figure but as a spiritual patron of the restoration.

**What was the purpose of the "basins" and "priests' garments" in the Temple?**

Answer: The "basins" (Hebrew: *mizrāq*) were essential vessels used in the Temple for various ritual purposes, primarily for collecting and sprinkling the blood of sacrifices, for libations, or for ritual washing. They were critical for the proper execution of the sacrificial system as prescribed in the Mosaic Law (e.g., [Exodus 27:3](/exodus/27-3 "Exodus 27:3 - Tabernacle Utensils")). The "priests' garments" were the specific, divinely prescribed attire for the Levitical priests, necessary for their consecration and for performing their sacred duties in the sanctuary. These garments, described in detail in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments"), were not just clothing but were integral to the priests' holy office, signifying their separation and qualification for service. Donating these items ensured that the Temple could function fully and properly, allowing the priests to carry out their duties according to God's commands.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The generosity displayed in Nehemiah 7:70, particularly by the Tirshatha, foreshadows the ultimate and most profound act of giving found in Jesus Christ. While the community gave material wealth to rebuild a physical temple and support its earthly priesthood, Christ, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") and our [Great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), gave Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, establishing a new covenant and building a spiritual temple not made with human hands ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). The gold, basins, and garments in Nehemiah served to facilitate worship under the Old Covenant, but Christ's finished work on the cross provides direct access to God, making every believer a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")). His giving was not of earthly treasures but of His very life, a perfect and complete offering that eternally cleanses from sin ([Hebrews 10:10-14](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Thus, the generosity in Nehemiah points forward to the boundless, self-sacrificial love of Christ, who, though [He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty for Our Riches"), so that through His poverty we might become rich in God's grace and eternal life.

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 8:9

¶ And Nehemiah, which [is] the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day [is] holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.

2 Chronicles 4:8

He made also ten tables, and placed [them] in the temple, five on the right side, and five on the left. And he made an hundred basons of gold.

1 Chronicles 28:17

Also pure gold for the fleshhooks, and the bowls, and the cups: and for the golden basons [he gave gold] by weight for every bason; and [likewise silver] by weight for every bason of silver:

Jeremiah 52:19

And the basons, and the firepans, and the bowls, and the caldrons, and the candlesticks, and the spoons, and the cups; [that] which [was] of gold [in] gold, and [that] which [was] of silver [in] silver, took the captain of the guard away.

Numbers 7:2

That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who [were] the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:

Numbers 7:86

The golden spoons [were] twelve, full of incense, [weighing] ten [shekels] apiece, after the shekel of the sanctuary: all the gold of the spoons [was] an hundred and twenty [shekels].

Exodus 12:22

And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip [it] in the blood that [is] in the bason, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that [is] in the bason; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning.