Nehemiah 5:7

Commentary on Nehemiah 5:7 (KJV)

Nehemiah 5:7 reveals Nehemiah’s decisive leadership and commitment to justice amidst the challenging task of rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls. This verse marks a pivotal moment where Nehemiah addresses internal corruption among the Jewish elite that threatened the unity and well-being of the community.

Context

The book of Nehemiah chronicles the return of Jewish exiles from Babylon and their efforts to rebuild Jerusalem under the leadership of Nehemiah, the cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. While the people faced external threats from surrounding enemies, an equally pressing problem emerged from within: economic exploitation. The poorer Jews, burdened by taxes and the need to rebuild, were forced to borrow money from their wealthier countrymen, the nobles and rulers, often mortgaging their fields, vineyards, and even their children. The practice of charging excessive interest, or usury, was strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law among fellow Israelites, yet it was rampant. Nehemiah 5:7 shows Nehemiah’s personal processing of this injustice and his subsequent confrontation with the perpetrators.

Key Themes

• Righteous Indignation and Leadership: Nehemiah’s initial "consulted with myself" (literally, "my heart took counsel within me") signifies his deep personal reflection, prayer, and strategic thinking before confronting the powerful. This was not a rash decision but a measured response to a clear violation of God's law and social justice. His courage in rebuking the powerful nobles and rulers demonstrates true spiritual leadership, much like Moses confronting Pharaoh or the prophets speaking truth to power.
• Social Justice and Economic Ethics: The core issue is the exploitation of the poor by the rich. The nobles were exacting usury, which was a direct violation of the covenant commands (e.g., Leviticus 25:36-37, Deuteronomy 23:19-20). This highlights God’s concern for the vulnerable and the importance of ethical economic practices within the community of faith, ensuring that prosperity does not come at the expense of the less fortunate.
• Accountability and Public Confrontation: Nehemiah didn't just privately admonish the wrongdoers; he "set a great assembly against them." This public forum ensured accountability and underscored the seriousness of the offense, making it clear that such practices were unacceptable and harmful to the entire community’s well-being and the work of God. This public exposure was critical for restoring justice and deterring future abuses.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "consulted with myself" translates the Hebrew va'eetbonen (וְאֶתְבּוֹנֵן), which implies deep thought, consideration, and understanding. It suggests Nehemiah took time to ponder the situation, perhaps seeking divine wisdom, before acting. The term "usury" (Hebrew neshek, נֶשֶׁךְ) specifically refers to interest charged on loans, often associated with a "bite" or "sting," highlighting its exploitative nature and the pain it inflicted upon the borrower.

Practical Application

Nehemiah 5:7 remains highly relevant today, urging believers to:

• Address Injustice Courageously: Like Nehemiah, we are called to confront injustice, especially when it harms the vulnerable, even if it means challenging those in positions of power or influence. This requires moral courage and a commitment to righteousness, echoing the call to do justly and love mercy.
• Practice Ethical Economics: The verse reminds us of biblical principles regarding fair dealings and the care for the poor, cautioning against exploitative financial practices. It encourages generosity and an economic system that uplifts rather than oppresses.
• Seek Wisdom Before Action: Nehemiah's example of "consulting with myself" encourages thoughtful consideration and prayer before acting on difficult issues, demonstrating a blend of spiritual discernment and practical wisdom. This is a characteristic of effective leadership, much like the wisdom sought by King Solomon in 1 Kings 3:9.