Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Nehemiah 12:44
And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.
44. at that time ] R.V. on that day. This is not an allusion to the day of rejoicing in the previous verse (‘that day’ Neh 12:43), but a general definition of time which the Compiler uses again in Neh 8:1. It is only a little less indefinite than ‘in those days,’ Neh 13:15; Neh 13:23.
some ] R.V. men.
the chambers ] The Hebrew word here used occurs elsewhere only in Neh 3:30, and Neh 13:7.
for the treasures ] As in Neh 13:13, Nehemiah records his special appointment of ‘treasurers over the treasuries’ whose business it was ‘to distribute unto their brethren.’ The appointments mentioned in this verse are probably of a somewhat different nature. The men ‘appointed over the chambers’ were the regular receivers and custodians of the treasure, i.e. the firstfruits and tithes, &c.; the four appointed by Nehemiah were commissioners for the purpose of securing an honest distribution.
for the treasures ] Either a general term denoting ‘stores’ and ‘provisions,’ of which ‘the heave-offerings’ are items, or a specific term, standing at the head of the list, and denoting special dedications and wealthy gifts. The former is the more probable alternative.
the offerings ] R.V. the heave offerings.
the firstfruits ] The use of this word seems here to include ‘the firstfruits’ and ‘firstlings’ mentioned in Neh 10:35-37.
the tithes ] See on Neh 10:37-38.
It will be observed that there is no reference here to any tithe of cattle. The chambers are only intended for receiving the produce of the field (Neh 13:12). As this passage is clearly based upon Nehemiah’s own Memoirs, it has afforded support to the theory that the cattle tithe was introduced into the text of Lev 27:30; Lev 27:32, after the time of Nehemiah. See note at the end of chap. 10.
out of the fields of the cities ] R.V. according to the fields of the cities.
The point of this clause is rather obscure. It probably refers to the method of storing, rather than to the size of the fields or to the succession in which the offerings were received and the tithe exacted.
An account was taken of the contributions from the fields of each city.
the portions of the law ] R.V. the portions appointed toy the law. Marg. ‘Heb. of the law ’. A unique phrase in the O.T. denoting the special requirements of the Levitical law.
Judah rejoiced &c.] The readiness of the people generally (‘Judah’) to support the priests and Levites according to ‘the law’ was due to their appreciation of their religious services. In proportion to their zeal for the priests and Levites it was necessary to provide officers to receive and regulate the contribution.
that wailed ] R.V. Marg. ‘Heb. stood ’.
In Deuteronomy the phrase ‘to stand before the Lord’ is the technical term for the ministrations of the priests. Here we find it used of the offices of ‘priests and Levites.’ In 1Ch 6:32-33 ‘And they waited on their office according to their order. And these are they that waited,’ it is applied to the Levites.
Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
Judah rejoiced – Judahs satisfaction with the priests and Levites took the shape of increased offerings, more ample tithes, and the like, from where the appointment of treasuries and treasurers became necessary.
Fuente: Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
For the offerings; such as they had lately engaged themselves to give, or other voluntary or prescribed offerings.
The portions of the law, i.e. the foresaid first-fruits, and tithes, and other things which God by his law appointed for them.
Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited; partly for the eminent gifts and graces which they observed in many of them; and partly for the great benefit which they had now received by their ministry; and therefore for the competent provision which hereby was made for them, that so they might wholly wait upon their office to the peoples edification and comfort.
Fuente: English Annotations on the Holy Bible by Matthew Poole
44. portions of the lawthatis, “prescribed by the law.”
for Judah rejoiced for thepriests and . . . Levites that waitedThe cause of this generalsatisfaction was either the full restoration of the temple serviceand the reorganized provision for the permanent support of theministry, or it was the pious character and eminent gifts of theguardians of religion.
Fuente: Jamieson, Fausset and Brown’s Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
And at that time were some appointed over the chamber for the treasuries,…. On the selfsame day the dedication was; while the people were in a good disposition, and a suitable frame for such service, certain persons from among the priests were appointed to be overseers of the chambers fixed upon for treasuries, to lay up safe in them the following things, and take care of them, that they were put to the use for which they were designed:
for the offerings, for the first fruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites; what by the law of God were assigned them for their maintenance, and which the people had lately bound themselves to bring in, Ne 10:35,
for Judah rejoiced for the priests, and for the Levites that waited; at the temple, and performed their services there; they were so pleased with their ministrations that day, that they were determined to take care of them, and provide well for them, and that nothing should be wanting to them, enjoined by the law of God, and that they might not be obliged to dwell in fields and villages for the sake of their living,
Ne 12:28.
Fuente: John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
The joint efforts of Nehemiah and Ezra succeeded both in restoring the enactments of the law for the performance and maintenance of the public worship, and in carrying out the separation of the community from strangers, especially by the dissolution of unlawful marriages (Neh 12:44-13:3). When Nehemiah, however, returned to the king at Babylon, in the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes, and remained there some time, the abuses which had been abolished were again allowed by the people. During Nehemiah’s absence, Eliashib the priest prepared a chamber in the fore-court of the temple, as a dwelling for his son-in-law Tobiah the Ammonite. The delivery of their dues to the Levites (the first-fruits and tenths) was omitted, and the Sabbath desecrated by field-work and by buying and selling in Jerusalem; Jews married Ashdodite, Ammonitish, and Moabitish wives; even a son of the high priest Joiada allying himself by marriage with Sanballat the Horonite. All these illegal acts were energetically opposed by Nehemiah at his return to Jerusalem, when he strove both to purify the congregation from foreigners, and to restore the appointments of the law with respect to divine worship (13:4-31).
The narration of these events and of the proceedings of Nehemiah in the last section of this book, is introduced by a brief summary (in Neh 12:44-13:3) of what was done for the ordering of divine worship, and for the separation of Israel from strangers; and this introduction is so annexed to what precedes, not only by the formula (Neh 12:33 and Neh 13:1), but also by its contents, that it might be regarded as a summary of what Nehemiah had effected during his first stay at Jerusalem. It is not till the connective , “and before this” (Neh 13:4), with which the recital of what occurred during Nehemiah’s absence from Jerusalem, in the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes, beings, that we perceive that this description of the restored legal appointments relates not only to the time before the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes, but applies also to that of Nehemiah’s second stay at Jerusalem, and bears only the appearance of an introduction, being in fact a brief summary of all that Nehemiah effected both before and after the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes. This is a form of statement which, is to be explained by the circumstance that Nehemiah did not compile this narrative of his operations till the evening of his days.
Neh 12:44 The reformations in worship and in social life effected by Nehemiah. – Neh 12:44-47. Appointments concerning divine worship. Neh 12:44. And at that time were certain appointed over the chambers of store-places for the heave-offerings, the first-fruits, and the tenths, to gather into them, according to the fields of the cities, the portions appointed by the law for the priests and Levites. Though the definition of time corresponds with the of Neh 12:43, it is nevertheless used in a more general sense, and does not refer, as in Neh 12:43, to the day of the dedication of the wall, but only declares that what follows belongs chiefly to the time hitherto spoken of. means, not merely a day of twelve or twenty-four hours, but very frequently stands for the time generally speaking at which anything occurs, or certum quoddam temporis spatium ; and it is only from the context that we can perceive whether is used in its narrower or more extended meaning. Hence is often used in the historical and prophetical books, de die , or de tempore modo memorato , in contradistinction to , the time present to the narrator; comp. 1Sa 27:6; 1Sa 30:25, and the discussion in Gesen. Thes. p. 369. That the expression refers in the present verse not to any particular day, but to the time in question generally, is obvious from the whole statement, Neh 12:44-47. are not chambers for the treasures, i.e., treasure-chambers; but both here and Neh 13:12, signify places where stores are kept, magazines; hence: these are chambers for store-places for the heave-offerings, etc.; comp. Neh 10:38-39. With respect to , see rem. on Neh 3:30. , according to the fields of the cities, according to the delivery of the tenth of the crop from the fields of the different cities. These contributions necessitated the appointment of individuals to have the care of the store-chambers; “for Judah rejoiced in the priests and the Levites who were ministering,” and therefore contributed willingly and abundantly “the portions of the law,” i.e., the portions prescribed in the law. The form is exchanged for , Neh 12:47 and Neh 13:10. is a shorter expression for , Deu 10:8: standing before the Lord, i.e., ministering.
Fuente: Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament
| The People’s Attention to Their Duty. | B. C. 444. |
44 And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited. 45 And both the singers and the porters kept the ward of their God, and the ward of the purification, according to the commandment of David, and of Solomon his son. 46 For in the days of David and Asaph of old there were chief of the singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving unto God. 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.
We have here an account of the remaining good effects of the universal joy that was at the dedication of the wall. When the solemnities of a thanksgiving day leave such impressions on ministers and people as that both are more careful and cheerful in doing their duty afterwards, then they are indeed acceptable to God and turn to a good account. So it was here. 1. The ministers were more careful than they had been of their work; the respect the people paid them upon this occasion encouraged them to diligence and watchfulness, v. 45. The singers kept the ward of their God, attending in due time to the duty of their office; the porters, too, kept the ward of the purification, that is, they took care to preserve the purity of the temple by denying admission to those that were ceremonially unclean. When the joy of the Lord thus engages us to our duty, and enlarges us in it, it is then an earnest of that joy which, in concurrence with the perfection of holiness, will be our everlasting bliss. 2. The people were more careful than they had been of the maintenance of their ministers. The people, at the dedication of the wall, among other things which they made matter of their joy, rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited, v. 44. They had a great deal of comfort in their ministers, and were glad of them. When they observed how diligently they waited, and what pains they took in their work, they rejoiced in them. Note, The surest way for ministers to recommend themselves to their people, and gain an interest in their affections, is to wait on their ministry (Rom. xii. 7), to be humble and industrious, and to mind their business. When these did so the people thought nothing too much to do for them, to encourage them. The law had provided then their portions (v. 44), but what the better were they for that provision if what the law appointed them either was not duly collected or not justly paid to them? Now, (1.) Care is here taken for the collecting of their dues. They were modest, and would rather lose their right than call for it themselves. The people were many of them careless and would not bring their dues unless they were called upon; and therefore some were appointed whose office it should be to gather into the treasuries, out of the fields of the cities, the portions of the law for the priests and Levites (v. 44), that their portion might not be lost for want of being demanded. This is a piece of good service both to ministers and people, that the one may not come short of their maintenance nor the other of their duty. (2.) Care is taken that, being gathered in, they might be duly paid out, v. 47. They gave the singers and porters their daily portion, over and above what was due to them as Levites; for we may suppose that when David and Solomon appointed them their work (Neh 12:45; Neh 12:46), above what was required from them as Levites, they settled a fund for their further encouragement. Let those that labour more abundantly in the word and doctrine be counted worthy of this double honour. As for the other Levites, the tithes, here called the holy things, were duly set apart for them, out of which they paid the priests their tithe according to the law. Both are said to be sanctified; when what is contributed, either voluntarily or by law, for the support of religion and the maintenance of the ministry, is given with an eye to God and his honour, it is sanctified, and shall be accepted of him accordingly, and it will cause the blessing to rest on the house and all that is in it, Ezek. xliv. 30.
Fuente: Matthew Henry’s Whole Bible Commentary
Temple Service Restored, Verses 44-47
Although the temple had been rebuilt and its service restored nearly a hundred years earlier some of its added services seem riot to have been made a permanent part of its worship yet. The singers and musicians became a regular part of the worship during the time of David and was extended by Solomon. The porters, or gatekeepers, also became organized during the time of these two great kings of Israel. While there were occasions after the return of the captivity when there was celebration with singing and music, and when the porters were employed, it does not seem to have been permanently restored until this time.
The chambers were rooms provided in the outer walls of the temple enclosure for the storage of tithe and freewill offerings and other treasures belonging to the temple and its service. From these the priests and ministering Levites at the temple received their subsistence. There were times when there was not sufficient for them and the service was discontinued. The purpose of Nehemiah at this time, therefore, seems to assure that this condition would not recur.
Men from among the Levites were appointed to oversee the raising of the tithes from the outlying towns and their environs and caring for its storage in the chambers. Accordingly these, with the singers and porters, resumed the service as it had been carried out during the time of David and Solomon. This part of the temple worship as instituted in connection with the building of the first temple had been revived in the time of Zerubbabel, and now it is re-instituted by Nehemiah. Once again singers, porters, everyone got his portion of the holy things as it was intended. The business was performed by Levites sanctified, or set apart, for that purpose, 1Co 9:13-14.
Some thoughts for meditation: 1) the Israelites maintained a pure lineage from Abraham, traceable generation by generation; 2) it is well to celebrate great accomplishments in service of the Lord; 3) joy of the Lord’s servants should be observable by people around (1Th 1:8); 4) neglected deeds of Christian service should be restored when they fall into disuse.
Fuente: Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary
7. Concern is expressed over the support of the Levites.
TEXT, Neh. 12:44-47
44
On that day men were also appointed over the chambers for the stores, the contributions, the first fruits, and the tithes, to gather into them from the fields of the cities the portions required by the law for the priests and Levites; for Judah rejoiced over the priests and Levites who served.
45
For they performed the worship of their God and the service of purification, together with the singers and the gatekeepers in accordance with the command of David and of his son Solomon.
46
For in the days of David and Asaph, in ancient times, there were leaders of the singers, songs of praise and hymns of thanksgiving to God.
47
And so all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah gave the portions due the singers and the gatekeepers as each day required, and set apart the consecrated portion for the Levites, and the Levites set apart the consecrated portion for the sons of Aaron.
COMMENT
There was a very practical outcome to all of this, as there should be to great spiritual feasts. Perhaps the ceremonies themselves had pinpointed the inadequate support which the priests and Levites had been receiving though this is not mentioned. Perhaps their soul-stirring contribution of their talents had moved the great audience to gratitude; Neh. 12:44 implies as much, for it speaks of the peoples joy at their service. At any rate, arrangements were made to obtain a great offering for them. How that reminds us of dedication services today!
Neh. 12:45-46 speak further of the action of these servants of God, reminding us of the hand which David and Solomon had taken in organizing and directing these orders (1Ch. 25:1; 2Ch. 8:14).
In Neh. 12:47 the names of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah are linked together, perhaps to stress the continuity as the two fulfilled the same office and conducted the Lords work well.
WORD STUDIES
PURIFY (Neh. 12:27): the basic idea of the Hebrew word is brightness or splendor; i.e. it causes something to shine or be bright. It signifies to be or become clean or pure: to cleanse or purify. It can be done for three reasons. (1) Of physical purity: Eze. 39:12 describes the cleansing of the land from corpses. Num. 8:6-7 speaks of washing and completely shaving the Levites to prepare them for Gods service. (2) Of ceremonial purity: Eze. 43:26 speaks of cleansing the altar for the new Temple of which Ezekiel had a vision, A leper who had been healed would be purified in a ceremony administered by a priest: Lev. 14:11. (3) Of moral purity: Mal. 3:3 uses the figure of purifying metal from dross as a parallel of a persons moral cleansing. Jer. 33:8 speaks of cleansing through Gods forgiveness.
DEDICATION (Neh. 12:30 : Hanukkah): Sometimes a study of word derivations leads one down some strange and unexpected paths. There are three words formed from the same base, all of which have one common meaning: to choke. Apparently from this come the ideas of being narrow or of closing. A collar is placed around the neck of an animal and it is strangled down so that it can be initiated into mans service and trained for usefulness: thus it becomes dedicated, or consecrated to certain purposes. Each of the italicized words is a translation of one of the forms of this word. Our English word, neck, is derived from this same base (note the N and K, also in Hanukkah). So a wall was collared for mans service.
SUMMARY
This chapter records the names of families of priests and Levites who returned from captivity with Zerubbabel the governor and Jeshua the high priest; then the names of successive high priests covering about two centuries; then a list of Levite families, about a generation after the return.
Then follows a description of the service of dedication for the rebuilt wall surrounding Jerusalem: the assembling of Levites from many communities; the purification of the priests, people, gates, and wall; the two columns of Levite choirs, dignitaries, priests, trumpeters, and more singers; with Ezra and Nehemiah serving as parade marshals for the two columns; the converging at the Temple for numerous sacrifices and a service rendered by the priests and Levites. Everything was done according to patterns established long ago by David and Solomon. The people continued to give the prescribed portions to the Levites on the specified days, and the Levites gave their portion to the priests when Nehemiah was governor, as they had when Zerubbabel had been their governor.
Fuente: College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
(44) For Judah rejoiced.Not only was the Temple service restored to something like the completeness of the Davidical period, the people also everywhere took pleasure in the ministrations of the Temple, and provided amply for them. Hence the need of men to take charge of the treasuries of the firstfruits and tithes.
Fuente: Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers (Old and New Testaments)
(44-47) Economical arrangements.
Fuente: Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers (Old and New Testaments)
SECTION THIRD.
NEHEMIAH’S LATER REFORMS. Neh 12:44 to Neh 13:31.
LEVITICAL APPOINTMENTS, Neh 12:44-47.
44. At that time This seems certainly to refer to the time of the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem, and hence some have very naturally supposed that the wall was not dedicated till after the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes, when Nehemiah came the second time to Jerusalem. See introductory note before Neh 12:27.
Chambers for the treasures Store chambers; rooms in the temple for the storing of such things as offerings firstfruits, tithes, which were gathered in for the support of the sacred services. It was necessary for certain responsible persons to have charge of these important chambers and their stores.
Fields of the cities The suburbs or outlying fields that were attached to the different cities of Israel. The Israelites lived not on their lands, but in cities, from which they went forth at seed-time and harvest to sow and reap. So the fields of Boaz were in the vicinity of Bethlehem, but he abode in the city.
Portions of the law That is, portions prescribed by law for the priests and Levites. See Num 18:20-24; Deu 18:1-8.
Judah rejoiced for the priests That is, had great joy and comfort in their ministry and service, and gave willingly for their support.
That waited Literally, the ones standing; that is, standing to minister before the Lord. Compare Deu 10:8.
Fuente: Whedon’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments
Men Appointed Over The Storage Chambers In The Temple And Arrangements Are Made For The Gathering Of The Offerings And Tithes For The Sustenance Of The God-ordained Priests And Levites ( Neh 12:44-47 ).
In recognition of the new status of Jerusalem, and as a continuation of their expressions of thanksgiving towards God, a new impetus was given to the gathering of offerings and tithes for the priests and Levites. This is not to be seen as just an idea that was tacked on. It was central to the expectancy of the renewal of the Kingdom. It was seen as vitally important that in the holy city, where YHWH reigned in splendour, (whilst very much not being limited to that city, for it was recognised that ‘even the heaven of heavens could not contain Him’ (Psalms 93-99; 1Ki 8:27)), those set apart to God’s holy purposes and service should be fully provided for in accordance with the Law of Moses, so that they could give their full time to His service. And we should note that significantly there is here a deliberate reference back to the times of David, thereby emphasising that this was all to be seen as an important part of the reconstitution of the Davidic Kingdom, with David’s city at its head.
The connection with the previous celebrations is clearly brought out by the opening words, ‘on that day, at that time’ (beyom). The emphasis is on the fact that what is now to be described was to be seen as springing directly out of the loyalty and dedication to God revealed in those celebrations (compare also Neh 13:1).
This emphasis on the tithes and offerings as an important evidence of loyalty to God, and as a precursor to future blessing from God, is heavily underlined in the nearly contemporary prophecy of Malachi, which may even have been written at this time. There the prophet, in expectation of great things to come, calls on God’s people to renew their loyalty to God and pay Him His dues. Indeed he makes clear that without this there could be no glorious future (Mal 3:7-12). One of the signs of God’s evident working is that His people become generous with their material things, all of which belong to God. Thus this establishment of tithes and offerings was all a part of the expression of their loyalty, and an ensuring of the ministry of the priests and Levites chosen by God for that purpose, thus ensuring the continual holiness of the city and its eschatological future.
Analysis Of Neh 12:44-47 .
Men appointed over the Temple store-chambers in order to gather the heave offerings and tithes (44a).
Judah rejoiced for the priest and the Levites who stood (before YHWH), and kept the charge of God, and the charge of purification, and the charge of the singers and gatekeepers according to the commandment of David and Solomon (45)
For in the days of David and Asaph there were chief singers and songs of praise and thanksgiving to God (46).
The portions for the singers and gatekeeper, and the tithes for the Levites and priests, were set apart as required (47).
Neh 12:44
‘And at that time (or ‘on that day’) were men appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the heave-offerings, for the first-fruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them, according to the fields of the cities, the portions appointed by the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites who stood (before YHWH).’
Beyom (on that day, at that time’) is not necessarily intended to be seen as precise. ‘Yom’ could equally mean ‘day’ or ‘duration of time’, although it may be that the celebrations immediately precipitated the actions described. But it is unlikely that they commenced at the end of that very busy day. Rather they would take time to implement. Compare also Neh 13:1. Indeed the later beyamim ‘in those days’ suggests that these time frames are vague and approximate. The aim of these connecting phrases is in order to demonstrate what follows as an essential part of the purifying of the renewed Jerusalem.
So it was as a consequence of the initial religious purifying of Jerusalem that men were appointed (by the people of Judah) to oversee the Temple treasury, and to watch over the gathering of the heave-offerings, the firstfruits and the tithes. The idea is that what was God’s should be gathered efficiently and should be kept holy. For men to be over the treasury and the store-chambers was not new. Consider for example those described in Ezr 8:33. See also Neh 10:38. But this would appear to have in mind a new initiative taken in order to ensure efficiency in the service of God.
‘To gather into them, according to the fields of the cities, the portions appointed–.’ It is apparent from this that they were given the responsibility of gathering in the tithes in a systematic manner, for these were the portions appointed by the Law for the priests and Levites. We have no indication anywhere of how systematically his had been done in the past, but at times when tithing was practised it must have required a great deal of expended time for the Levites to gather in the tithes from every farm, and ensure that they received the correct proportion, and as Neh 10:38 indicates this was overseen by the priests. Thus it was a regular procedure. But now this was done happily because the whole of Judah were rejoicing in their God-chosen representatives before YHWH. There was renewed hope for the future, and the contribution of the Levites was seen as being of great importance.
Thus one of the firstfruits of the revival was a renewed activity of setting apart of the chambers in the Temple for their holy purpose. But sadly, as spirituality waned, and when Nehemiah’s eagle eye was not present, those very chambers would be taken over and utilised for another, quite unholy purpose (Neh 13:4-5), something which a returning Nehemiah had to remedy. The purity of Jerusalem had to be maintained, and it was this that Nehemiah saw as his main accomplishment (Neh 13:30-31).
The heave-offerings, the firstfruits and the tithes were the portions appointed by the Law for the maintenance of the God-chosen priests and Levites. It was as a direct result of these that they were able to carry on their full-time ministry, and they were essential for that purpose. That is why they were so important in maintaining the holiness of the holy city.
The ‘heave-offerings’ were that part of the offerings which was ‘heaved’ or ‘waved’ before YHWH as His portion, and thus available only to be partaken of by the priests. The ‘firstfruits’ were that portion of produce set apart as YHWH’s in recognition that they held the land from Him. That too was partaken of by the priests. ‘The tithes’ were one tenth of all produce (both of animals and of grain) which was to be set apart, both for the Levites, and for the poor, with a tenth of a tenth being made available to the priests.
‘For Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites who stood (before YHWH).’ It is significant that the same word (‘rejoiced’) is used of Judah’s attitude towards the priests and Levites as was used of their celebrating the completion of the wall (compare Neh 12:43). Both were occasions of great joy. They were exultant that the holy city had been established with a holy priesthood. For the phrase ‘stood before YHWH’ see Deu 10:8; Deu 18:7; Eze 44:15; 2Ch 29:11.
Neh 12:45
‘And they kept the charge of their God, and the charge of the purification, and (the charge of) the singers and the gatekeepers, according to the commandment of David, and of Solomon his son.’
The ‘they’ here possibly refers to those appointed over the store-chambers, who would of course be priests and Levites, or it may refer to the priests and Levites generally. They gladly kept God’s charge, faithfully fulfilling their responsibilities in order to fulfil God’s Law, including His charge concerning offerings and sacrifices and other methods of purification, and His charge concerning the singers and gatekeepers in accordance with the requirements laid down by David, and his son Solomon, for which see 1 Chronicles 23-26. This is especially significant in that, once Nehemiah was absent at the court of the Persian king, the people failed to completely fulfil this responsibility (Neh 13:10), and had to be called into line. In 1Ch 23:28 the ‘purifying of holy things’ was seen very much as an important part of the service of ‘the sons of Levi’.
Many would translate as ‘as did the singers and the gatekeepers’, including them as fulfilling their responsibility with regard to ‘the charge of God’.
Neh 12:46
‘For in the days of David and Asaph of old there was a chief of the singers, and a song of praise and thanksgiving unto God.’
Here the writer stresses that there were indeed in David’s day, and in the days of Asaph his choirmaster, a chief of singers and ‘a song or praise and thanksgiving’ that is there was a choir that sang praises to God. There being a ‘song of praise’ after mention of a chief singer, is demonstrative of this latter fact. The song of praise would arise from his choir. The double emphasis on David suggests that very much in mind was the fact that they were continuing on with the ministry of the kingdom. Now that Jerusalem was once more the holy city they were hoping for a new David to arise, to lift God’s people to new heights.
Neh 12:47
‘And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days of Nehemiah, gave the portions of the singers and the gatekeepers, 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.’
He then stresses that from the very moment of the return from captivity to the present time, even if only spasmodically when a leader with impetus arose (in the days of Zerubbabel and in the days of Nehemiah), the due portions were given to the singers/musicians and the gatekeepers, in accordance with their requirements, and tithes were set apart for the Levites, who in their turn set aside a tenth of the tithes for the priests. There is a deliberate portrayal of the ideal prior to our learning what happened when the people were left unsupervised by a godly leader. But as no credit for this could specifically be given to Nehemiah there is no prayer from Nehemiah that God will remember what he has done.
Fuente: Commentary Series on the Bible by Peter Pett
The Establishment Of The Temple Treasury, And The Chambers To Contain The Heave-offerings, Firstfruits and Tithes That Were Offered To YHWH, Their Restoration, And The Exclusion Of All Who Religiously Defiled Jerusalem ( Neh 12:44 to Neh 13:14 ).
Equally of importance with the celebrations over the completion of the wall, were the arrangements made to ensure that Jerusalem continued to be the holy city, set apart to YHWH, purified from all that religiously defiled, and fulfilling its function as the YHWH’s earthy dwellingplace, and as the store-city of all that specifically belonged to YHWH (that which had been set apart for Him and given to Him in accordance with the Law). To the mundane mind the building of the wall of Jerusalem had made it a defensible city suitable to be the capital of Judah, and thus an achievement in itself, but to the religious mind what the wall indicated was a new beginning of Jerusalem as ‘the holy city’ which was the centre of true Yahwism.
This portion (Neh 12:44 to Neh 13:14) is distinguished by being fashioned on a clear chiastic pattern, as follows:
A Appointment of men over the treasure and store chambers (Neh 12:44 a).
B The store chambers were for the treasures, heave-offerings, firstfruits and tithes (Neh 12:44 b).
C All Judah rejoiced over the priests, and over the Levites who waited (before God) and gave them their portions as every day required (Neh 12:44 c-47).
D In accordance with the Law of YHWH concerning the Moabites and Ammonites all who were religiously tainted were separated from Israel (Neh 13:1-3).
E Eliashib who was the priest who was appointed over the chambers, provided a chamber for Tobiah the Ammonite, a chamber which had previously been used for the storage of those things which had been given to God (Neh 13:4-5).
F All this happened when Nehemiah was away from Jerusalem, having returned to the king’s court, probably at this stage stationed at Babylon (Neh 13:6).
E Nehemiah learns what Eliashib had done in providing Tobiah with a chamber in the courts of the house of God (Neh 13:7).
D Tobiah the Ammonite was cast out of the Temple chambers which were cleansed and restored to their proper use (Neh 13:8-9).
C The portions of the Levites had not been given to them with the result that the house of God was forsaken by its servants who no longer waited before God (Neh 13:10-11),
B All Judah brought the tithes to the treasuries (Neh 13:12).
A Appointment of men over the treasuries (Neh 13:13-14).
Note that in A men were appointed over the treasure and store chambers, and in the parallel men were appointed over the treasury. In B the store chambers were for various things including the tithes, and in the parallel all Judah brought tithes to the treasury. In C the portions were given to the priests and Levites as every day required, and in the parallel their portions were not given to the Levites. In D all who were religiously tainted, including the Ammonites, were separated from Israel, and in the parallel Tobiah the Ammonite was cast out of the Temple chambers which had to be cleansed. In E Eliashib provided a chamber for Tobiah, ad in the parallel Nehemiah learned of it. Centrally all this happened whilst Nehemiah was away from Jerusalem
Fuente: Commentary Series on the Bible by Peter Pett
Certain officers Appointed
v. 44. And at that time, v. 45. And both the singers and the porters kept the ward of their God, v. 46. For in the days of David and Asaph of old there were chief of the singers, v. 47. And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel and in the days of Nehemiah gave the portions of the singers and the porters,
Fuente: The Popular Commentary on the Bible by Kretzmann
I pass over every inferior consideration in those verses, to call the Reader’s attention to what appears to me infinitely surpassing every other: I mean, that the holy songs of Nehemiah were evidently corresponding, if not in the very words with David’s Psalms; for so it is here remarked; and let the Reader recollect that all these treated of Jesus. Of the incarnate Jehovah Nehemiah therefore sung. What a blessed testimony that the same gospel views as we now have, and the same gospel songs as we now sing, were in the days of Nehemiah. The only difference lies here: they sung of him that was to come – one of his well-known titles. We sing of him that hath come, and accomplished all things. But one and the same subject occupied the minds of both, namely, Redemption. Blessed be God, may the church say, in all ages, for Jesus Christ, the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace. Eph 1:7 .
Fuente: Hawker’s Poor Man’s Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
Neh 12:44 And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.
Ver. 44. For Judah rejoiced ] Heb. For the joy of Judah, the oil of spiritual gladness had so dilated their hearts, that they were most ready and willing to provide for the sacred ministers; and to pay them that which was appointed, as they had also newly covenanted to do.
For the priests and the Levites that waited
Fuente: John Trapp’s Complete Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: Neh 12:44-47
44On that day men were also appointed over the chambers for the stores, the contributions, the first fruits and the tithes, to gather into them from the fields of the cities the portions required by the law for the priests and Levites; for Judah rejoiced over the priests and Levites who served. 45For they performed the worship of their God and the service of purification, together with the singers and the gatekeepers in accordance with the command of David and of his son Solomon. 46For in the days of David and Asaph, in ancient times, there were leaders of the singers, songs of praise and hymns of thanksgiving to God. 47So all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah gave the portions due the singers and the gatekeepers as each day required, and set apart the consecrated portion for the Levites, and the Levites set apart the consecrated portion for the sons of Aaron.
Neh 12:44-47 This seems to be a parenthesis giving further information and not part of Nehemiah’s first person account.
Neh 12:45 in accordance with the command of David and Solomon See 1 Chronicles 23-26 and 2Ch 8:14.
Neh 12:47 The order of tithes is seen in Num 18:21-32 (cf. Neh 10:38).
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.
1. How are the lists here and 1 Chronicles 9 related?
2. Why are the lists of the cities in Neh 11:25-36; Neh 11:3 :lff different?
3. How are the lists of Nehemiah 12, 7 related?
4. Were Ezra and Nehemiah contemporaries?
5. How were the priests supported?
Fuente: You Can Understand the Bible: Study Guide Commentary Series by Bob Utley
some = men. Hebrew. ‘enosh. App-14.
offerings = heave offerings.
into them = by them: i.e. these officers; not into the chambers, for “chambers” is fem, and “them” is masculine
of the law. So in Cod. Hillel; but some codices, with one early printed edition, read “portions for thanksgiving”.
Fuente: Companion Bible Notes, Appendices and Graphics
Neh 12:44-47
Neh 12:44-47
REGULATIONS REGARDING RELIGIOUS DUTIES OF THE PEOPLE
“On that day, men were appointed over the chambers for the stores, the contributions, the first-fruits, and the tithes, to gather into them the portions required by the law for the priests and for the Levites according to the fields of the towns; for Judah rejoiced over the priests and the Levites who ministered. And they performed the service of their God and the service of purification, as did the singers and gatekeepers according to the command of David and his son Solomon. For as in the days of David and Asaph of old there was a chief of the singers, and there were songs of praise and thanksgiving to God. And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel and in the days of Nehemiah gave the daily portions for the singers and the gatekeepers; and they set apart that which was for the Levites; and the Levites set apart that which was for the sons of Aaron.”
“Men were appointed over the chambers for the stores … the tithes … to gather them” (Neh 12:44). Bringing tithes into Jerusalem was no doubt an arduous and constant work; and it is no wonder the duty was neglected. Here we learn that men were appointed to collect them from outlying areas and to deliver them to the storehouses in the temple. This no doubt pleased the vast majority of the people.
Nehemiah, in this paragraph, used the third person; but that does not mean another author nor that mythical chronicler. “The solemnity was terminated with the offering of great sacrifices and a general festival of rejoicing. In all that sacrificing, Nehemiah, the governor, was naturally superceded as the man in charge by Ezra the priest; and therefore Nehemiah related the close of the proceedings objectively, using the third person, as he had done in describing the preparations (Neh 12:27), only using the first person when speaking of what was appointed by himself or his position.”[15] Biblical authors (and other ancient historians) very often used the third person in their writings; even Paul did so (2Co 12:2-4).
This last paragraph emphasizes the widespread cooperation of the people with the priests and the Levites. Israel considered their national safety as dependent upon the faithful observance of all the religious ceremonies and ordinances by the priests and Levites. By stressing that fact that this was being done, “The author,” according to Cook, “Is comparing the religious activity and strictness of Nehemiah’s time with that which had prevailed under Zerubbabel (described in Ezr 6:16-22), with the implication that the intermediate period had been a time of laxity.”
E.M. Zerr:
Neh 12:44. The service mentioned in this verse has been referred to in previous passages, so nothing new is noted. It is well, however, to observe that some order and system had been arranged. That waited means the Levites who “stood by” to be in readiness when called upon to serve.
Neh 12:45-46. Ward means duty or obligation; the singers and porters (janitors) both did theirs, which was according to the order that had been given by David.
Neh 12:47. All Israel means the congregation in general. They were required to support the service of God with their contributions. That is what is meant by gave the portions. The period that was being especially considered by the writer was that in the days of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah. A glance at the chart will show that to have comprised almost 100 years.
Fuente: Old and New Testaments Restoration Commentary
Neglect of Religious Duties
Neh 12:44-47; Neh 13:1-14
In Neh 12:44-47 we have recorded the care that was manifested for the worthy maintenance of those who ministered in sacred things. As a result there were glad outbursts of minstrelsy and holy joy. Make room in your life for songs and praises, Psa 33:1. In the opening of Neh 13:1-31 we see how the Word of God cuts like a two-edged sword against evil. Happy are they who attend to its solemn warnings. The law referred to here was Deu 23:3-5. Tobiah was an Ammonite, and it was a scandalous thing that the high priest was not only allied to him by marriage, but had cast out the stores of the Temple in order to make room for him in the sacred edifice. Tobiahs influence was so great that the rest shrank from putting the law of separation into operation against him. When Nehemiah returned from a long sojourn in Persia he cast out all of Tobiahs goods, and restored the chamber to its proper use. If we have given up a chamber in our heart to any Tobiah, we must be prepared to do likewise.
Fuente: F.B. Meyer’s Through the Bible Commentary
some: Neh 10:37-39, Neh 13:5, Neh 13:12, Neh 13:13, 2Ch 13:11, 2Ch 13:12, 2Ch 31:11-13
chambers: 1Ch 9:26, 1Ch 26:21-26
of the law: that is, appointed by the law
Judah rejoiced: Heb. the joy of Judah. Levites. Num 3:10, Num 8:24, Num 8:25, 1Ch 23:28, 2Ch 5:11, 2Ch 5:12, Pro 8:34, Isa 40:31, Rom 12:7
waited: Heb. stood
Reciprocal: Gen 18:8 – stood Lev 27:30 – General Num 16:9 – separated Num 18:21 – the tenth Deu 18:4 – firstfruit Deu 18:8 – like portions Deu 26:2 – That thou shalt 1Ki 6:5 – built 1Ch 9:22 – in their 1Ch 9:28 – the charge 2Ch 31:5 – came abroad Neh 13:4 – having the oversight of Mal 3:10 – the storehouse
Fuente: The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Neh 12:44. For the offerings Such as they had lately engaged themselves to give, or other voluntary or prescribed offerings. To gather out of the fields the portions of the law That is, the aforesaid first-fruits and tithes, and other things, which God, by his law, appointed for them. For Judah rejoiced for the priests, &c. For the eminent gifts and graces which they observed in many of them; for the great benefit which they had now received by their ministry; and for the competent provision which hereby was made for them, that so they might wholly wait upon their office. The sure way for ministers to gain an interest in the affections of their people is, to wait on their ministry, to spend their whole time, and thought, and strength therein.
Fuente: Joseph Bensons Commentary on the Old and New Testaments
Neh 12:44-47. Provision for the Priests and Levites.Probably an insertion by the Chronicler.
Neh 12:44. on that day: better, with AV, at that time, which is, in accordance with the Heb., more indefinite (cf. Neh 13:1).the chambers for the treasures: cf. Neh 13:13; provisions would be less ambiguous than treasures.the Levites that waited: better that served, i.e. the Temple.
Neh 12:45. kept the ward: i.e. performed the service.and so did: i.e. according to what their special duties were.according . . . son: this was in accordance with the Chroniclers ideas, so also Nem 12:46.
Neh 12:47. This insertion shows that Zerubbabel and Nehemiah were the two outstanding personalities during the period so far as the civil government was concerned.and they sanctified . . . : this is difficult to understand, but see Neh 10:38 f.
Fuente: Peake’s Commentary on the Bible
12:44 And at that time were some appointed {m} over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.
(m) Which were chambers appointed by Hezekiah to put in the tither, and such things, 2Ch 31:11 and now were repaired again for the same use.