Nehemiah 12:47

And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days of Nehemiah, gave the portions of the singers and the porters, every day his portion: and they sanctified [holy things] unto the Levites; and the Levites sanctified [them] unto the children of Aaron.

And all Israel {H3478} in the days {H3117} of Zerubbabel {H2216}, and in the days {H3117} of Nehemiah {H5166}, gave {H5414} the portions {H4521} of the singers {H7891} and the porters {H7778}, every day {H3117} his portion {H1697}: and they sanctified {H6942} holy things unto the Levites {H3881}; and the Levites {H3881} sanctified {H6942} them unto the children {H1121} of Aaron {H175}.

So in the days of Z'rubavel and in the days of Nechemyah, all Isra'el gave portions to the singers and gatekeepers as required daily. They set aside a portion for the L'vi'im, who, in turn set aside a portion for the descendants of Aharon.

So in the days of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah, all Israel contributed the daily portions for the singers and gatekeepers. They also set aside daily portions for the Levites, and the Levites set aside daily portions for the descendants of Aaron.

And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days of Nehemiah, gave the portions of the singers and the porters, as every day required: and they set apart that which was for the Levites; and the Levites set apart that which was for the sons of Aaron.

Commentary

Nehemiah 12:47 provides a vital summary of the sustained support for those dedicated to the temple service in post-exilic Jerusalem. It highlights the continuity of provision for the spiritual leaders and workers, spanning from the initial return under Zerubbabel to the reforms enacted by Nehemiah.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse concludes a section in Nehemiah detailing the dedication of Jerusalem's rebuilt wall and the re-establishment of organized worship. It bridges two significant periods: the "days of Zerubbabel," who led the first wave of exiles back to Jerusalem and oversaw the rebuilding of the Second Temple, and the "days of Nehemiah," who championed the rebuilding of the city walls and further religious reforms. The verse emphasizes that throughout these generations, the people of Israel maintained their commitment to financially supporting the temple staff.

The "singers" (Levites appointed for musical worship) and "porters" (Levites guarding the temple gates) were crucial for the orderly functioning of the sanctuary, alongside the broader body of Levites and the descendants of Aaron, who served as priests. Their roles were essential for the spiritual life of the community.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Sustained Support for Ministry: The verse underscores the consistent and daily provision for those serving in the Lord's house. This wasn't a one-time gift but a regular, organized system of sustenance, ensuring that the temple workers could devote themselves fully to their duties without concern for livelihood.
  • Order and Accountability: There was a clear structure for distribution: the people of Israel gave portions, which were then consecrated ("sanctified") to the Levites. In turn, the Levites consecrated a portion of what they received to the priests ("the children of Aaron"), as prescribed by Mosaic Law (e.g., Numbers 18:21, Numbers 18:28). This demonstrates an organized system of giving and distribution.
  • Community Responsibility: The phrase "all Israel... gave the portions" highlights the collective responsibility of the entire community to uphold and maintain the temple service. Their active participation was vital for the spiritual health and worship life of the nation.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "sanctified" here is qadash, meaning "to make holy" or "to set apart." When the people "sanctified" portions to the Levites, it means they set apart these gifts as holy, dedicated for sacred use and for those consecrated to God's service. This act elevated the giving beyond mere sustenance, recognizing it as an offering to God through His servants.

Practical Application

Nehemiah 12:47 offers timeless principles for believers today. It emphasizes the importance of consistent and generous support for those who devote their lives to ministry, whether pastors, missionaries, or other church workers. Just as Israel provided for the temple staff, Christian communities are called to ensure that those who teach and serve the church are adequately cared for, allowing them to focus on their spiritual calling. This verse encourages organized, faithful giving as a vital part of communal worship and responsibility, reflecting the principle found in the New Testament to share all good things with those who teach God's word.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Numbers 18:21 (2 votes)

    And, behold, I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they serve, [even] the service of the tabernacle of the congregation.

  • Numbers 18:29 (2 votes)

    Out of all your gifts ye shall offer every heave offering of the LORD, of all the best thereof, [even] the hallowed part thereof out of it.

  • 2 Chronicles 31:5 (2 votes)

    And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all [things] brought they in abundantly.

  • 2 Chronicles 31:6 (2 votes)

    And [concerning] the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things which were consecrated unto the LORD their God, and laid [them] by heaps.

  • Galatians 6:6 (2 votes)

    Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

  • Nehemiah 11:23 (2 votes)

    For [it was] the king's commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for every day.

  • Nehemiah 12:12 (2 votes)

    And in the days of Joiakim were priests, the chief of the fathers: of Seraiah, Meraiah; of Jeremiah, Hananiah;