Nehemiah 5:13

Nehemiah 5:13 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

I also shook out the folds of my robe and said, “May God likewise shake out of His house and possession every man who does not keep this promise. May such a man be shaken out and have nothing!” The whole assembly said, “Amen,” and they praised the LORD. And the people did as they had promised.

King James Version KJV

Also I shook my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labour, that performeth not this promise, even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. And all the congregation said, Amen, and praised the LORD. And the people did according to this promise.

American Standard Version ASV

Also I shook out my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labor, that performeth not this promise; even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. And all the assembly said, Amen, and praised Jehovah. And the people did according to this promise.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And shaking out the folds of my robe, I said, So may God send out from his house and his work every man who does not keep this agreement; even so let him be sent out and made as nothing. And all the meeting of the people said, So be it, and gave praise to the Lord. And the people did as they had said.

Free Bible Version FBV

I shook out the folds of my robe and said, “This is how my God will shake you out of your homes and out of your possessions if you don't keep your promise! If you don't, you'll be shaken out and end up with nothing!” Everyone there said, “Amen,” and praised the Lord. The people did what they'd promised.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

So I shooke my lappe, and said, So let God shake out euery man that wil not perfourme this promise from his house, and from his labour: euen thus let him be shaken out, and emptied. And all the Cogregation said, Amen, and praised the Lord: and the people did according to this promise.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

also, my lap I have shaken, and I say, 'Thus doth God shake out every man, who doth not perform this thing, from his house, and from his labour; yea, thus is he shaken out and empty;' and all the assembly say, 'Amen,' and praise Jehovah; and the people do according to this thing.

World English Bible WEB

Also I shook out my lap, and said, “So may God shake out every man from his house, and from his labor, that doesn’t perform this promise; even may he be shaken out and emptied like this.” All the assembly said, “Amen,” and praised the LORD. The people did according to this promise.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Also I shook my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labor, that performeth not this promise, even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. And all the congregation said, Amen, and praised the LORD. And the people did according to this promise.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Moreover I shook my lap, and said: So may God shake every man that shall not accomplish this word, out of his house, and out of his labours, thus may he be shaken out, and become empty. And all the multitude said: Amen. And they praised God. And the people did according to what was said.

Translation for Translators T4T

I shook out the folds of my robe and said to them, “If you do not do what you have just now promised to do, I hope/desire that God will shake you like I am shaking my robe. He will take away your homes and everything else that you own.” They all replied, “Amen/May it be so!” And they praised Yahweh. Then they did what they had promised to do.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 5:13

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Nehemiah 5:13 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB גַּם חָצְנִ֣/י נָעַ֗רְתִּי וָֽ/אֹמְרָ֡/ה כָּ֣כָה יְנַעֵ֪ר הָֽ/אֱלֹהִ֟ים אֶת כָּל הָ/אִישׁ֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר לֹֽא יָקִ֜ים אֶת הַ/דָּבָ֣ר הַ/זֶּ֗ה מִ/בֵּית/וֹ֙ וּ/מִ֣/יגִיע֔/וֹ וְ/כָ֛כָה יִהְיֶ֥ה נָע֖וּר וָ/רֵ֑ק וַ/יֹּאמְר֨וּ כָֽל הַ/קָּהָ֜ל אָמֵ֗ן וַֽ/יְהַלְלוּ֙ אֶת יְהוָ֔ה וַ/יַּ֥עַשׂ הָ/עָ֖ם כַּ/דָּבָ֥ר הַ/זֶּֽה

גַּם gam H1571 also DirObjM

חָצְנִ֣/י chôtsen H2684 bosom N-ms | Suff

נָעַ֗רְתִּי nâʻar H5287 to shake V-Qal-Perf-1cs

וָֽ/אֹמְרָ֡/ה ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs | Suff

כָּ֣כָה kâkâh H3602 thus Adv

יְנַעֵ֪ר nâʻar H5287 to shake V-Piel-Imperf-3ms

הָֽ/אֱלֹהִ֟ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God Art | N-mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

כָּל kôl H3605 all N-ms

הָ/אִישׁ֩ ʼîysh H376 man Art | N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Part

יָקִ֜ים qûwm H6965 -kamai V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

הַ/דָּבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 Chronicles Art | N-ms

הַ/זֶּ֗ה zeh H2088 this Art | Pron

מִ/בֵּית/וֹ֙ bayith H1004 place Prep | N-ms | Suff

וּ/מִ֣/יגִיע֔/וֹ yᵉgîyaʻ H3018 toil Conj | Prep | N-ms | Suff

וְ/כָ֛כָה kâkâh H3602 thus Conj | Adv

יִהְיֶ֥ה hâyâh H1961 to be V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

נָע֖וּר nâʻar H5287 to shake V-Qal-Inf-c

וָ/רֵ֑ק rêyq H7386 worthless Conj | Adj

וַ/יֹּאמְר֨וּ ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

כָֽל kôl H3605 all N-ms

הַ/קָּהָ֜ל qâhâl H6951 assembly Art | N-ms

אָמֵ֗ן ʼâmên H543 amen Adv

וַֽ/יְהַלְלוּ֙ hâlal H1984 to shine Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

יְהוָ֔ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

וַ/יַּ֥עַשׂ ʻâsâh H6213 to make Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

הָ/עָ֖ם ʻam H5971 Amaw Art | N-ms

כַּ/דָּבָ֥ר dâbâr H1697 Chronicles Prep | N-ms

הַ/זֶּֽה zeh H2088 this Art | Pron

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 5:13

גַּם gam H1571 "also" DirObjM

Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.

Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike

Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.

חָצְנִ֣/י chôtsen H2684 "bosom" N-ms | Suff

The Hebrew word for bosom refers to the area between the arms, like a lap. In the Bible, it is used to describe a place of closeness and intimacy, such as in Psalm 35:13. It symbolizes a sense of warmth and protection.

Definition: bosom, lap

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: arm, lap. See also: Nehemiah 5:13; Isaiah 49:22.

נָעַ֗רְתִּי nâʻar H5287 "to shake" V-Qal-Perf-1cs

To shake or tremble is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which is used in various forms throughout the Old Testament. It can describe physical shaking, like an earthquake, or emotional turmoil. The prophet Isaiah used this word to describe God's judgment.

Definition: 1) to shake, shake out or off 1a) (Qal) to shake out, show emptiness 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be shaken 1b2) to shake oneself 1c) (Piel) to shake off or out 1d) (Hithpael) to shake oneself

Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: shake (off, out, self), overthrow, toss up and down. See also: Exodus 14:27; Psalms 109:23; Psalms 136:15.

וָֽ/אֹמְרָ֡/ה ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs | Suff

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

כָּ֣כָה kâkâh H3602 "thus" Adv

This Hebrew word means 'thus' or 'in this way', often used to compare or explain something, like in 2 Samuel 18:30, where a messenger describes a scene in a particular manner. It helps clarify the context of a story or situation.

Definition: like this, thus

Usage: Occurs in 35 OT verses. KJV: after that (this) manner, this matter, (even) so, in such a case, thus. See also: Exodus 12:11; 2 Chronicles 7:21; Psalms 144:15.

יְנַעֵ֪ר nâʻar H5287 "to shake" V-Piel-Imperf-3ms

Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: shake (off, out, self), overthrow, toss up and down. See also: Exodus 14:27; Psalms 109:23; Psalms 136:15.

הָֽ/אֱלֹהִ֟ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" Art | N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

כָּל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

הָ/אִישׁ֩ ʼîysh H376 "man" Art | N-ms

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

יָקִ֜ים qûwm H6965 "-kamai" V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms

Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.

Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai

Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

הַ/דָּבָ֣ר dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" Art | N-ms

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

הַ/זֶּ֗ה zeh H2088 "this" Art | Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning this or that, used to point out a specific person or thing. It appears in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms, to indicate something specific. The KJV translates it as he, here, or it.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, another, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 1061 OT verses. KJV: he, [idiom] hence, [idiom] here, it(-self), [idiom] now, [idiom] of him, the one...the other, [idiom] than the other, ([idiom] out of) the (self) same, such (a one) that, these, this (hath, man), on this side...on that side, [idiom] thus, very, which. Compare H2063 (זֹאת), H2090 (זֹה), H2097 (זוֹ), H2098 (זוּ). See also: Genesis 5:1; Exodus 10:17; Numbers 14:16.

מִ/בֵּית/וֹ֙ bayith H1004 "place" Prep | N-ms | Suff

The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.

Definition: nm place, origin, between

Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.

וּ/מִ֣/יגִיע֔/וֹ yᵉgîyaʻ H3018 "toil" Conj | Prep | N-ms | Suff

This word refers to hard work or labor, and the things we produce as a result of our efforts. It can also mean the property or wealth we acquire through our work. The KJV translates it as 'labour' or 'work'.

Definition: 1) toil, work 2) product, produce, acquired property (as a result of work)

Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: labour, work. See also: Genesis 31:42; Psalms 128:2; Psalms 78:46.

וְ/כָ֛כָה kâkâh H3602 "thus" Conj | Adv

Definition: like this, thus

Usage: Occurs in 35 OT verses. KJV: after that (this) manner, this matter, (even) so, in such a case, thus. See also: Exodus 12:11; 2 Chronicles 7:21; Psalms 144:15.

יִהְיֶ֥ה hâyâh H1961 "to be" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

נָע֖וּר nâʻar H5287 "to shake" V-Qal-Inf-c

Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: shake (off, out, self), overthrow, toss up and down. See also: Exodus 14:27; Psalms 109:23; Psalms 136:15.

וָ/רֵ֑ק rêyq H7386 "worthless" Conj | Adj

In the Bible, this word describes something that is empty or worthless, like an empty vessel or a person without value. It is used to emphasize the importance of being filled with purpose or meaning.

Definition: 1) empty, vain 1a) empty (of vessels) 1b) empty, idle, worthless (ethically)

Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: emptied(-ty), vain (fellow, man). See also: Genesis 37:24; 2 Kings 4:3; Proverbs 12:11.

וַ/יֹּאמְר֨וּ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

כָֽל kôl H3605 "all" N-ms

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

הַ/קָּהָ֜ל qâhâl H6951 "assembly" Art | N-ms

A group of people gathered together, like the congregation in Solomon's temple or a crowd in the streets of Jerusalem.

Definition: 1) assembly, company, congregation, convocation 1a) assembly 1a1) for evil counsel, war or invasion, religious purposes 1b) company (of returning exiles) 1c) congregation 1c1) as organised body

Usage: Occurs in 116 OT verses. KJV: assembly, company, congregation, multitude. See also: Genesis 28:3; 2 Chronicles 28:14; Psalms 22:23.

אָמֵ֗ן ʼâmên H543 "amen" Adv

Amen means something is true or faithful, like a promise or a statement of fact. Jesus often used it to begin his teachings, as in Matthew 5:18. It expresses certainty or agreement.

Definition: verily, truly, amen, so be it

Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: Amen, so be it, truth. See also: Numbers 5:22; Deuteronomy 27:26; Psalms 41:14.

וַֽ/יְהַלְלוּ֙ hâlal H1984 "to shine" Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3mp

To be foolish means to act wildly or make a show, like the prophets of Baal in 1 Kings 18:29. It can also mean to celebrate or boast, as in Psalm 38:5.

Definition: 1) to shine 1a) (Qal) to shine (fig. of God's favour) 1b) (Hiphil) to flash forth light

Usage: Occurs in 140 OT verses. KJV: (make) boast (self), celebrate, commend, (deal, make), fool(-ish, -ly), glory, give (light), be (make, feign self) mad (against), give in marriage, (sing, be worthy of) praise, rage, renowned, shine. See also: Genesis 12:15; Psalms 113:1; Psalms 5:6.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

יְהוָ֔ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper

Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)

Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.

וַ/יַּ֥עַשׂ ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

הָ/עָ֖ם ʻam H5971 "Amaw" Art | N-ms

A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

כַּ/דָּבָ֥ר dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" Prep | N-ms

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

הַ/זֶּֽה zeh H2088 "this" Art | Pron

Study Notes — Nehemiah 5:13

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Nehemiah 5:13 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 5:13
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 5:13
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 5:13
Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 5:13
Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13
Sermons on Nehemiah 5:13

Context — Nehemiah Defends the Oppressed

11Please restore to them immediately their fields, vineyards, olive groves, and houses, along with the percentage of the money, grain, new wine, and oil that you have been assessing them.” 12“We will restore it,” they replied, “and will require nothing more from them. We will do as you say.” So I summoned the priests and required of the nobles and officials an oath that they would do what they had promised.

13I also shook out the folds of my robe and said, “May God likewise shake out of his house and possessions every man who does not keep this promise. May such a man be shaken out and have nothing!” The whole assembly said, “Amen,” and they praised the LORD. And the people did as they had promised.

14Furthermore, from the day King Artaxerxes appointed me to be their governor in the land of Judah, from his twentieth year until his thirty-second year (twelve years total), neither I nor my brothers ate the food allotted to the governor. 15The governors before me had heavily burdened the people, taking from them bread and wine plus forty shekels of silver. Their servants also oppressed the people. But I did not do this, because of my fear of God.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Acts 18:6	But when they opposed and insulted him, he shook out his garments and told them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”
2	1 Chronicles 16:36	Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.” Then all the people said, “Amen!” and “Praise the LORD!”
3	Matthew 10:14	And if anyone will not welcome you or heed your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town.
4	Zechariah 5:3–4	Then he told me, “This is the curse that is going out over the face of all the land, for according to one side of the scroll, every thief will be removed; and according to the other side, every perjurer will be removed. I will send it out, declares the LORD of Hosts, and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of him who swears falsely by My name. It will remain inside his house and destroy it, down to its timbers and stones.”
5	Nehemiah 8:6	Then Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God, and with their hands uplifted, all the people said, “Amen, Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground.
6	Psalms 76:11	Make and fulfill your vows to the LORD your God; let all the neighboring lands bring tribute to Him who is to be feared.
7	Deuteronomy 27:14–26	Then the Levites shall proclaim in a loud voice to every Israelite: ‘Cursed is the man who makes a carved idol or molten image—an abomination to the LORD, the work of the hands of a craftsman—and sets it up in secret.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who dishonors his father or mother.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who moves his neighbor’s boundary stone.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who lets a blind man wander in the road.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who withholds justice from the foreigner, the fatherless, or the widow.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who sleeps with his father’s wife, for he has violated his father’s marriage bed.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who lies with any animal.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who sleeps with his sister, the daughter of his father or the daughter of his mother.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who sleeps with his mother-in-law.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who strikes down his neighbor in secret.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who accepts a bribe to kill an innocent person.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ ‘Cursed is he who does not put the words of this law into practice.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’
8	Acts 13:51	So they shook the dust off their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium.
9	Ecclesiastes 5:5	It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.
10	1 Samuel 15:28	So Samuel said to him, “The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to your neighbor who is better than you.

Nehemiah 5:13 Summary

[Nehemiah 5:13 shows us that keeping our promises is very important to God. When we make a promise, we should try our best to keep it, just like the people in this verse. This is similar to what we see in Psalm 15:4, where it says that people who keep their promises, even when it's hard, are the ones who will live with God forever. By keeping our promises, we can build trust with others and with God, and we can live with integrity, as taught in Proverbs 10:9.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Nehemiah shaking out the folds of his robe in Nehemiah 5:13?

Nehemiah shaking out the folds of his robe is a symbolic act, calling down God's judgment on those who do not keep their promises, as seen in Deuteronomy 29:20 and Matthew 10:15.

Why did the whole assembly say 'Amen' and praise the LORD in Nehemiah 5:13?

The assembly agreed with Nehemiah's declaration, acknowledging God's authority and justice, similar to the response in Psalm 106:48 and 1 Chronicles 16:36.

How does Nehemiah 5:13 relate to the concept of oaths and vows in the Bible?

This verse highlights the importance of keeping promises and oaths, as emphasized in Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 and Matthew 5:33-37, demonstrating the gravity of making commitments to God and others.

What is the result of the people's decision to keep their promise in Nehemiah 5:13?

The people's decision to keep their promise leads to a positive outcome, as they are able to restore the fields, vineyards, and houses to their rightful owners, reflecting the biblical principle of sowing and reaping in Galatians 6:7-8.

Reflection Questions

What promises have I made to God or others that I need to keep, and how can I ensure I fulfill them?
In what ways can I, like Nehemiah, demonstrate my commitment to God's justice and righteousness in my daily life?
How can I balance the need for accountability and consequences for broken promises with the importance of showing grace and mercy, as seen in Matthew 18:21-35?
What are some areas in my life where I need to be more mindful of the power of my words and the importance of keeping my commitments, as taught in James 1:26-27?

Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 5:13

Also I shook my lap,.... The fore skirts of his garment, shaking the dust out of them, as a symbol of what follows; a like rite was used in the case of peace and war, the choice of either, by the

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 5:13

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13

I shook my lap, i.e. the lap or extreme parts of my garment, which I first folded together, and then shook it, and scattered it asunder. This was a form of swearing then in use. From his labour, i.e. from enjoying what he hath got by his labour.

Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13

Nehemiah 5:13 Also I shook my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labour, that performeth not this promise, even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. And all the congregation said, Amen, and praised the LORD. And the people did according to this promise.Ver. 13. Also I shook my lap] By this rite (running into their senses) this holy man runs with terrors into the eyes and hearts of all that should perfidiously forswear themselves, by a direful denunciation of divine vengeance, in all lawful oaths there is an imprecation, though it be not always expressed, Genesis 14:23; Heb. iii. So God cast out every man from his house] See Zechariah 5:4-5, with the note. And from his labour] i.e. From his laying up (the fruit of his labour), his lands and estate, got by a diligent hand. The Hebrew word signifieth labour even to lassitude and fainting. And all the congregation said, Amen] In token of hearty assent and assurance. And praised the Lord] There was a general joy, and many a humble, cheerful, and thankful heart lifted up to God for sin so redressed, and poor people relieved. And the people did according to this promise] This was real thankfulness. It is not the fumbling out of a few good words (as, God, I thank thee, praised be God, &c.) that will pass. Thanksdoing is the proof of thanksgiving; and the good life of the thankful is the life of thankfulness. "Offer unto God thanksgiving, and pay thy vows unto the Most High," Psalms 50:14.

Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13

(13) Shook my lap.—This symbolical act imprecated on every man who broke this covenant an appropriate penalty: that he be emptied of all his possessions, even as the fold of Nehemiah’s garment was emptied. And it is observable that the iniquity thus stopped is not referred to in the subsequent covenant (Nehemiah 10), nor is it one of the offences which the governor found on his second return (Nehemiah 13).

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13

Verse 13. Also I shook my lap] This was a significant action frequent among the Hebrews; and something of the same nature was practised among other nations. "When the Roman ambassadors entered the senate of Carthage, they had their toga gathered up in their bosom. They said, We carry here peace and war; you may have which you will. The senate answered, You may give which you please. They then shook their toga, and said, We bring you war. To which all the senate answered, We cheerfully accept it." See Livy. lib. xxi., cap. 18; and see Calmet.

Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 5:13

13. Also I shook my lap] R.V. Also I shook out my lap. (LXX. ἀναβολήν. Vulg. ‘sinum’.) The word here rendered ‘lap’ only occurs elsewhere in the O. T. in Isaiah 49:22, R.V. ‘bosom,’ A.V. ‘arms.’ Nehemiah here employs a symbolical gesture, suiting his action to his metaphor. He pressed tightly to his body the loose fold of his mantle, so that it hung like a bag or wallet against him; then with a vehement motion of both hands he suddenly stretched it out and shook it in the sight of all the people, so that anything which it might have before concealed would have been jerked violently from him. Even so, he says, may God cast forth from His protection and love, in home and work, the man who fails to abide by the compact. Cf. Job 38:13, ‘That it might take hold of the ends of the earth, and the wicked be shaken out of it.’ Isaiah 24:1. The gesture was rhetorical. It would impress itself upon the audience, and emphasize the speaker’s words. For instances of symbolical action comp. 1 Kings 11:30; 1 Kings 20:35-43; 1 Kings 22:11; Jeremiah 13:1-14; Jeremiah 18:1-12; Jeremiah 19:1-13; Matthew 27:24; Acts 18:6. that performeth not this promise] Lit. ‘that fulfilleth or establisheth not this word.’ The same phrase in the original as Deuteronomy 27:26, ‘Cursed be he that confirmeth not the words of this law to do them.’ from his house, and from his labour] This conjunction of words sounds proverbial, but does not occur elsewhere in the O. T. ‘His labour’ does not mean so much ‘his means of occupation’—the modern idea—as ‘the exercise and even the fruits of his industry.’ The word used is that found in the expression ‘the labour of the hands,’ Genesis 31:42; Job 10:3; Psalms 128:2; Haggai 1:11. Cf. Deuteronomy 28:33, ‘The fruit of thy ground, and all thy labours, shall a nation which thou knowest not eat up.’ promise, even thus] R.V. promise; even thus.all the congregation said, Amen, and praised the Lord] The people said ‘Amen,’ ratifying the curse of Nehemiah and the condition of the contract: they praised the Lord, because the poor had been succoured and the division of the people healed. The ‘Amen,’ as the people’s assent to the ruler’s proposition, occurs again Nehemiah 8:6. Cf. 1 Kings 1:36; 1 Chronicles 16:36, and Deuteronomy 27:15. And the people did, &c.] If we may press the distinction between the two words employed, ‘the people’ in the mass carried into execution the resolutions of ‘the congregation,’ that had approved Nehemiah’s measures.

Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 5:13

I shook my lap - Compare the marginal references. By “lap” is meant a fold in the bosom of the dress, capable of serving as a pocket. Compare Isaiah 49:22 margin.

Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 5:13

13. Shook my lap — Or, shook my bosom; that is, the bosom of my garment. This was a symbolical act to designate, as Nehemiah immediately explains, the casting out from the covenant people those who performeth not this promise.

Sermons on Nehemiah 5:13

	Sermon	Description
	Why God Says No by Bill McLeod	In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes and stories to emphasize the importance of sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others. He highlights the regret of not sh
	Matthew 7:1-6. Christ Forbids Hypocritical Judgment. by Favell Lee Mortimer	Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the sinful nature of passing judgment in a spirit of hatred, similar to the Pharisees who maliciously watched Christ for faults. Christians are c
	Homily 39 on the Acts of the Apostles by St. John Chrysostom	John Chrysostom preaches about Paul's experiences in Athens and Corinth, highlighting how some mocked the resurrection of the dead while others believed, such as Dionysius the Areo
	K-253 Latent Anti-Semitism (1 of 2) by Art Katz	In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of a conversation with a man who had a profound impact on him. The man suggests that what the world needs is for people to
	Sudden Death by Rolfe Barnard	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the unpredictability of death and the importance of being prepared for it. He uses examples of individuals who met sudden death without havin
	The Most Controversial Subject in the Bible by Greg Locke	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and the consequences of rejecting God's message. He shares a personal experience of being shown the Bible and l
	Shake the Dust From Your Feet - Part 1 by Derek Melton	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of spreading the gospel to the nations. He criticizes the comfort and self-centeredness of American Christians, who are obliviou