### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun כֵּרָה (kêrâh, `{{H3740}}`) is derived from the verbal root כָּרָה (kārâh, `{{H3738}}`). While kārâh primarily means "to dig" (as in digging a well), it also carries the sense of "to buy" or "to purchase." Consequently, kêrâh as a noun signifies "a purchase" or "something bought." The extended meaning of "provision" naturally flows from this, referring to something acquired specifically for sustenance, support, or a particular purpose. It implies an act of transaction or acquisition, often involving an exchange or payment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word kêrâh (`{{H3740}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the book of Nehemiah.
* **[[Nehemiah 5:15]]**: "But the former governors who were before me laid burdens on the people and took from them bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver; even their servants lorded it over the people. But I did not do so, because of the fear of God. Moreover, I devoted myself to the work on this wall, and we acquired no land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work. And there were at my table 150 Jews and officials, besides those who came to us from the surrounding nations. Now what was prepared for each day was one ox, six choice sheep, and fowls; and every ten days skins of wine in abundance. Yet for all this I did not demand the bread of the governor, *because the service was heavy on this people*."
In this context, kêrâh refers to the "provision" or daily allowance that previous governors had *taken* from the people. It was a burdensome tax or levy, consisting of "bread and wine" and "forty shekels of silver," that the people were compelled to provide for the governor's household and staff. Nehemiah explicitly contrasts his own conduct with that of his predecessors, stating that he did *not* demand this kêrâh, highlighting his selfless leadership and his deep reverence for God. The context emphasizes economic oppression and Nehemiah's commitment to alleviating the people's burden rather than adding to it.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **כָּרָה (kārâh, `{{H3738}}`)**: The root verb from which kêrâh is derived. Its dual meaning of "to dig" and "to buy/purchase" underscores the concept of acquisition, whether by excavation or transaction.
* **לֶחֶם (lechem, `{{H3899}}`)**: "Bread," frequently used as a general term for food or sustenance. In [[Nehemiah 5:15]], kêrâh is specifically associated with "bread and wine" (לֶחֶם וָיַיִן), clarifying the nature of the provision.
* **מַס (mas, `{{H4522}}`)**: "Forced labor," "tribute," or "levy." This concept is closely related to the oppressive nature of the "provision" exacted by the former governors, which functioned as a type of burdensome tax.
* **מִקְרָה (miqrâh, `{{H4745}}`)**: A noun also from kārâh, meaning "a digging" or "a pit," emphasizing the "digging" aspect of the root.
* **Economic Justice**: Concepts of fair taxation, equitable distribution, and protection of the poor, which are pervasive themes throughout the Law and Prophets. The kêrâh in Nehemiah's account stands in opposition to these principles when it becomes an instrument of oppression.
### Theological Significance
Though kêrâh (`{{H3740}}`) appears but once, its singular occurrence in [[Nehemiah 5:15]] is profoundly significant for understanding biblical principles of leadership and justice. The "provision" (kêrâh) demanded by previous governors represents an abuse of power, a burden unjustly laid upon the people for the leader's personal gain. This stands in stark contrast to God's design for righteous governance, which emphasizes care for the vulnerable and equitable treatment.
Nehemiah's refusal to demand this kêrâh is explicitly attributed to his "fear of God" (מִפְּנֵי יִרְאַת אֱלֹהִים). This highlights that true leadership, from a biblical perspective, is not about personal enrichment or exploitation, but about selfless service and integrity rooted in reverence for the Almighty. His actions embody the spirit of the Mosaic Law, which condemned usury and the oppression of the poor, and align with the prophetic critique against those who exploit their position for material advantage (e.g., [[Isaiah 3:14-15]], [[Amos 2:6-7]]). The kêrâh in this context thus becomes a powerful symbol of the ethical choices leaders must make, demonstrating that godly leadership prioritizes the well-being of the community over personal privilege.
### Summary
The Hebrew noun kêrâh (`{{H3740}}`), derived from the verb kārâh (`{{H3738}}`), signifies "a purchase" or "provision." Its singular appearance in [[Nehemiah 5:15]] is pivotal, referring to the burdensome daily "provision" that prior governors unjustly extracted from the people. Nehemiah's principled refusal to demand this kêrâh, motivated by his "fear of God," serves as a profound theological statement. It powerfully illustrates the biblical standard for righteous leadership: a selfless commitment to economic justice and the welfare of the community, contrasting sharply with exploitative practices. The word, though rare, thus encapsulates a critical aspect of ethical governance and the practical outworking of godliness in positions of authority.
TRV