Nehemiah 6:6
Nehemiah 6:6 in Multiple Translations
that read: “It is reported among the nations—and Geshem agrees—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and this is why you are building the wall. According to these reports, you are to become their king,
Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words.
wherein was written, It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel; for which cause thou art building the wall: and thou wouldest be their king, according to these words.
And in it these words were recorded: It is said among the nations, and Geshem says so, that you and the Jews are hoping to make yourselves free from the king's authority; and that this is why you are building the wall: and they say that it is your purpose to be their king;
The letter read: “People around are saying, and Geshem confirms it, that you and the Jews are planning a rebellion, and that's why you're building the wall. You also plan to become their king, so they say,
Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu hath sayd it, that thou and the Iewes thinke to rebel, for the which cause thou buildest the wall and thou wilt bee their King according to these wordes.
it is written in it, 'Among the nations it hath been heard, and Gashmu is saying: Thou and the Jews are thinking to rebel, therefore thou art building the wall, and thou hast been to them for a king — according to these words!
in which was written, “It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu says it, that you and the Jews intend to rebel. Because of that, you are building the wall. You would be their king, according to these words.
In which was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it , that thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall that thou mayest be their king, according to these words.
It is reported amongst the Gentiles, and Gossem hath said it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel, and therefore thou buildest the wall, and hast a mind to set thyself king over them: for which end
This is what was written in the message: “Some people in the nearby countries have heard a report that you and the other Jews are rebuilding the wall in order to be able to resist attacks, because you are planning to revolt against the king of Babylon. And the report also says that you are planning to become the king of the Israelis. Geshem says that what they have reported is true.
Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 6:6
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 6:6 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
כָּת֣וּב
בָּ֗/הּ
בַּ/גּוֹיִ֤ם
נִשְׁמָע֙
וְ/גַשְׁמ֣וּ
אֹמֵ֔ר
אַתָּ֤ה
וְ/הַ/יְּהוּדִים֙
חֹשְׁבִ֣ים
לִ/מְר֔וֹד
עַל
כֵּ֛ן
אַתָּ֥ה
בוֹנֶ֖ה
הַ/חוֹמָ֑ה
וְ/אַתָּ֗ה
הֹוֶ֤ה
לָ/הֶם֙
לְ/מֶ֔לֶךְ
כַּ/דְּבָרִ֖ים
הָ/אֵֽלֶּה
כָּת֣וּב
kâthab
H3789
to write
V-Qal-Inf-c
בָּ֗/הּ
Prep | Suff
בַּ/גּוֹיִ֤ם
gôwy
H1471
Gentile
Prep | N-mp
נִשְׁמָע֙
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
V-Niphal-Perf-3ms
וְ/גַשְׁמ֣וּ
Geshem
H1654
Geshem
Conj | N-proper
אֹמֵ֔ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
V-Qal
אַתָּ֤ה
ʼattâh
H859
you(m.s.)
Pron
וְ/הַ/יְּהוּדִים֙
Yᵉhûwdîy
H3064
of Judah
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
חֹשְׁבִ֣ים
châshab
H2803
to devise
V-Qal
לִ/מְר֔וֹד
mârad
H4775
to rebel
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
כֵּ֛ן
kên
H3651
right
Part
אַתָּ֥ה
ʼattâh
H859
you(m.s.)
Pron
בוֹנֶ֖ה
bânâh
H1129
to build
V-Qal
הַ/חוֹמָ֑ה
chôwmâh
H2346
wall
Art | N-fs
וְ/אַתָּ֗ה
ʼattâh
H859
you(m.s.)
Conj | Pron
הֹוֶ֤ה
hâvâʼ
H1933
to fall
V-Qal
לָ/הֶם֙
Prep | Suff
לְ/מֶ֔לֶךְ
melek
H4428
King's
Prep | N-ms
כַּ/דְּבָרִ֖ים
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
Prep | N-mp
הָ/אֵֽלֶּה
ʼêl-leh
H428
these
Art | Pron
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 6:6
כָּת֣וּב
kâthab
H3789
"to write"
V-Qal-Inf-c
To write or record something, including inscribing or engraving. It is used in various contexts, such as writing down a decree or subscribing to an agreement. This word is about putting thoughts or ideas into written form.
Definition: 1) to write, record, enrol 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to write, inscribe, engrave, write in, write on 1a2) to write down, describe in writing 1a3) to register, enrol, record 1a4) to decree 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be written 1b2) to be written down, be recorded, be enrolled 1c) (Piel) to continue writing Aramaic equivalent: ke.tav (כְּתַב "to write" H3790)
Usage: Occurs in 212 OT verses. KJV: describe, record, prescribe, subscribe, write(-ing, -ten). See also: Exodus 17:14; 1 Chronicles 9:1; Psalms 40:8.
בָּ֗/הּ
""
Prep | Suff
בַּ/גּוֹיִ֤ם
gôwy
H1471
"Gentile"
Prep | N-mp
This word refers to a Gentile, someone who is not Hebrew or Israeli. It can also describe a large group of animals or a nation of people, emphasizing their unity and shared identity.
Definition: 1) nation, people 1a) nation, people 1a1) usually of non-Hebrew people 1a2) of descendants of Abraham 1a3) of Israel 1b) of swarm of locusts, other animals (fig.) 1c) Goyim? = "nations" Also named: ethnos (ἔθνος "Gentiles" G1484)
Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: Gentile, heathen, nation, people. See also: Genesis 10:5; Judges 4:16; Psalms 2:1.
נִשְׁמָע֙
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
V-Niphal-Perf-3ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
וְ/גַשְׁמ֣וּ
Geshem
H1654
"Geshem"
Conj | N-proper
Geshem was a man who lived during the time of the Israelites' return from exile, mentioned in Nehemiah 2:19. His name means rain in Hebrew. He was an Arabian who opposed Nehemiah.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Neh.2.19 § Geshem or Gashmu = "rain" an Arabian foe of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: Geshem, Gashmu. See also: Nehemiah 2:19; Nehemiah 6:2; Nehemiah 6:6.
אֹמֵ֔ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
V-Qal
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.
אַתָּ֤ה
ʼattâh
H859
"you(m.s.)"
Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
וְ/הַ/יְּהוּדִים֙
Yᵉhûwdîy
H3064
"of Judah"
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
This term refers to people from the tribe of Judah, including Judah himself, who was the son of Israel and Leah. It is used to describe the descendants of Judah, who are also known as Jews.
Definition: People descended from Judah, living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.35; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); married to Bath-shua (H1323I) and Tamar (H8559); father of: Er (H6147), Onan (H0209), Shelah (H7956), Perez (H6557) and Zerah (H2226I) Group of ye.hu.dah (יְהוּדָה "Judah" H3063) § Jew
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: Jew. See also: 2 Kings 16:6; Esther 8:17; Jeremiah 32:12.
חֹשְׁבִ֣ים
châshab
H2803
"to devise"
V-Qal
To devise means to think or plan something, often in a clever way. In the Bible, it can mean to plot or contrive, as seen in the story of David and Goliath.
Definition: : count/regard_as 1) to think, plan, esteem, calculate, invent, make a judgment, imagine, count 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to think, account 1a2) to plan, devise, mean 1a3) to charge, impute, reckon 1a4) to esteem, value, regard 1a5) to invent 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be accounted, be thought, be esteemed 1b2) to be computed, be reckoned 1b3) to be imputed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to think upon, consider, be mindful of 1c2) to think to do, devise, plan 1c3) to count, reckon 1d) (Hithpael) to be considered
Usage: Occurs in 122 OT verses. KJV: (make) account (of), conceive, consider, count, cunning (man, work, workman), devise, esteem, find out, forecast, hold, imagine, impute, invent, be like, mean, purpose, reckon(-ing be made), regard, think. See also: Genesis 15:6; Psalms 35:4; Psalms 10:2.
לִ/מְר֔וֹד
mârad
H4775
"to rebel"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
To rebel means to resist or defy authority, like the Israelites who rebelled against God in the wilderness. This Hebrew word is used to describe rebellion against human leaders, like kings, or against God Himself. It appears in stories like Exodus and Numbers.
Definition: 1) to rebel, revolt, be rebellious 1a) (Qal) to rebel, revolt 1a1) against human king 1a2) against God 1a3) against light (poetic)
Usage: Occurs in 23 OT verses. KJV: rebel(-lious). See also: Genesis 14:4; 2 Chronicles 36:13; Isaiah 36:5.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
כֵּ֛ן
kên
H3651
"right"
Part
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'so' or 'thus', often used to show agreement or confirmation, like in the book of Genesis. It can also mean 'rightly' or 'justly', as in doing something the correct way. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: adv adj 1) right, just, honest, true, veritable 1a) right, just, honest 1b) correct 1c) true, veritable
Usage: Occurs in 737 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after that (this, -ward, -wards), as... as, [phrase] (for-) asmuch as yet, [phrase] be (for which) cause, [phrase] following, howbeit, in (the) like (manner, -wise), [idiom] the more, right, (even) so, state, straightway, such (thing), surely, [phrase] there (where) -fore, this, thus, true, well, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:7; Exodus 37:19; Judges 7:17.
אַתָּ֥ה
ʼattâh
H859
"you(m.s.)"
Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
בוֹנֶ֖ה
bânâh
H1129
"to build"
V-Qal
The Hebrew word bânâh means to build something, like a house or a family. It can also mean to establish or repair something, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: 1) to build, rebuild, establish, cause to continue 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to build, rebuild 1a2) to build a house (ie, establish a family) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be built 1b2) to be rebuilt 1b3) established (of restored exiles) (fig.) 1b4) established (made permanent) 1b5) to be built up (of childless wife becoming the mother of a family through the children of a concubine) Aramaic equivalent: be.nah (בְּנָה "to build" H1124)
Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: (begin to) build(-er), obtain children, make, repair, set (up), [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 2:22; 1 Kings 8:48; 2 Chronicles 20:8.
הַ/חוֹמָ֑ה
chôwmâh
H2346
"wall"
Art | N-fs
A wall of protection, like the walls of Jerusalem, provided safety and security for the people. It appears in the Bible as a physical barrier. The Israelites built walls around their cities for defense.
Definition: wall
Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: wall, walled. See also: Exodus 14:22; Nehemiah 6:15; Psalms 51:20.
וְ/אַתָּ֗ה
ʼattâh
H859
"you(m.s.)"
Conj | Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
הֹוֶ֤ה
hâvâʼ
H1933
"to fall"
V-Qal
This verb means 'to be' or 'to exist', used in the sense of something happening or coming into being, like in Genesis 1:2. It's about something being present or real.
Definition: 1) Qal) 1a) to fall
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: be, [idiom] have. See also: Genesis 27:29; Ecclesiastes 2:22; Isaiah 16:4.
לָ/הֶם֙
""
Prep | Suff
לְ/מֶ֔לֶךְ
melek
H4428
"King's"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.
Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)
Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.
כַּ/דְּבָרִ֖ים
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
Prep | N-mp
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.
הָ/אֵֽלֶּה
ʼêl-leh
H428
"these"
Art | Pron
This Hebrew word is used to point out specific people or things, like saying 'these' or 'those'. It appears in the book of Genesis, where God says 'let there be light' and separates the light from the darkness.
Definition: 1) these 1a) used before antecedent 1b) used following antecedent Aramaic equivalent: el.leh (אֵלֶּה "these" H0429)
Usage: Occurs in 697 OT verses. KJV: an-(the) other; one sort, so, some, such, them, these (same), they, this, those, thus, which, who(-m). See also: Genesis 2:4; Exodus 35:1; Deuteronomy 1:35.
Study Notes — Nehemiah 6:6
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- Nehemiah 6:6 Summary
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Context — Sanballat’s Conspiracy
4Four times they sent me the same message, and each time I gave the same reply.
5The fifth time, Sanballat sent me this same message by his young servant, who had in his hand an unsealed letter
6that read: “It is reported among the nations—and Geshem agrees—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and this is why you are building the wall. According to these reports, you are to become their king,
7and you have even appointed prophets in Jerusalem to proclaim on your behalf: ‘There is a king in Judah.’ Soon these rumors will reach the ears of the king. So come, let us confer together.” 8Then I sent him this reply: “There is nothing to these rumors you are spreading; you are inventing them in your own mind.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nehemiah 2:19 | But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about this, they mocked us and ridiculed us, saying, “What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” |
| 2 | Ezra 4:12 | Let it be known to the king that the Jews who came from you to us have returned to Jerusalem. And they are rebuilding that rebellious and wicked city, restoring its walls, and repairing its foundations. |
| 3 | Romans 3:8 | Why not say, as some slanderously claim that we say, “Let us do evil that good may result”? Their condemnation is deserved! |
| 4 | 1 Peter 3:16 | keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ. |
| 5 | Ezra 4:15 | that a search should be made of the record books of your fathers. In these books you will discover and verify that the city is a rebellious city, harmful to kings and provinces, inciting sedition from ancient times. That is why this city was destroyed. |
| 6 | Luke 23:2 | And they began to accuse Him, saying, “We found this man subverting our nation, forbidding payment of taxes to Caesar, and proclaiming Himself to be Christ, a King.” |
| 7 | Jeremiah 9:3–6 | “They bend their tongues like bows; lies prevail over truth in the land. For they proceed from evil to evil, and they do not take Me into account,” declares the LORD. “Let everyone guard against his neighbor; do not trust any brother, for every brother deals craftily, and every friend spreads slander. Each one betrays his friend; no one tells the truth. They have taught their tongues to lie; they wear themselves out committing iniquity. You dwell in the midst of deception; in their deceit they refuse to know Me,” declares the LORD. |
| 8 | Matthew 5:11 | Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. |
| 9 | Nehemiah 6:1–2 | When Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall and not a gap was left—though to that time I had not yet installed the doors in the gates— Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: “Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.” But they were planning to harm me. |
| 10 | Jeremiah 20:10 | For I have heard the whispering of many: “Terror is on every side! Report him; let us report him!” All my trusted friends watch for my fall: “Perhaps he will be deceived so that we may prevail against him and take our vengeance upon him.” |
Nehemiah 6:6 Summary
[Nehemiah 6:6 tells us that Nehemiah's enemies were spreading false rumors about him, saying that he was trying to become king and that he was building the wall for that purpose. This was not true, and Nehemiah stood firm in his faith and trust in God, just like Daniel did when he was faced with opposition in Daniel 6:1-28. We can learn from Nehemiah's example to always trust in God and not be swayed by false accusations or rumors. By doing so, we can stay focused on our mission and purpose, just as Nehemiah did, and fulfill the plans that God has for us, as described in Jeremiah 29:11.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main accusation being made against Nehemiah in Nehemiah 6:6?
The main accusation is that Nehemiah and the Jews are plotting to revolt and that he is building the wall to become their king, as reported among the nations and agreed upon by Geshem, which is a similar tactic used by enemies of God's people in other parts of the Bible, such as in Esther 3:8-9.
Who is Geshem and why is he significant in this verse?
Geshem is an ally of Sanballat, and his agreement with the accusations adds weight to the false reports being spread, much like how the enemies of God's people often join forces against them, as seen in Psalm 83:1-8.
What is the purpose of the letter sent to Nehemiah in Nehemiah 6:6?
The purpose of the letter is to intimidate and deceive Nehemiah, making him believe that his actions are being reported to the king and that he should meet with Sanballat to discuss the matter, which is a tactic similar to the one used by Satan to deceive Eve in Genesis 3:1-5.
How does this verse relate to the overall theme of Nehemiah's story?
This verse shows the opposition and challenges that Nehemiah faced as he worked to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, which is a testament to the spiritual battle that believers often face when trying to accomplish God's work, as described in Ephesians 6:12.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can apply Nehemiah's courage and perseverance in the face of opposition to my own life and spiritual journey?
- How can I discern when I am being deceived by false reports or accusations, and what are some biblical principles that can guide me in such situations?
- In what ways can I be a source of encouragement and support to others who are facing opposition or challenges in their own lives, just as Nehemiah was a source of strength to the Jewish people?
- What are some spiritual lessons that I can learn from Nehemiah's response to the accusations made against him, and how can I apply those lessons to my own relationships and interactions with others?
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 6:6
Wherein was written, it is reported among, the Heathen,.... Among the several neighbouring nations; it was an affair that was not whispered about among a few only; it was common talk, it was in every
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 6:6
Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 6:6
Among the heathen; the neighbouring people, whom you proudly and disdainfully call heathens or Gentiles. Gashmu, called Geshem, ; who affirmed it and would prove it. According to these words, i.e. according to these reports; or, that thou mayst justify and verify these rumours. Others, according to these things, i.e. when these things which thou art now doing shall be finished. But the first sense seems most agreeable to the use of the same words in the next verse.
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 6:6
Nehemiah 6:6 Wherein [was] written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith [it, that] thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words.Ver. 6. It is reported among the heathen] And must, therefore, needs be true, like as the common sort of Turks think that whatsoever is written in their tongue must of necessity be believed for truth. But who knows not that rumour is a loud liar; and that every public person needeth carry a spare handkerchief to wipe off dirt cast upon him by disaffected persons, that seek to soil their reputation, and to deprave their best actions. And Gashmu saith so] Geshmu, alias Geshem, the Arabian, Nehemiah 6:1-2, a worthy wight, a credible witness. Nehemiah might well have replied, as Seneca did in like case, Male de me loquuntur, sed mali. Gashmu’ s tongue was no slander; for he was known to be mendaeiorum artifex, one that had taught his tongue the art of lying, Jeremiah 9:3; Jeremiah 9:5, and had taken fast hold of deceit, Jeremiah 8:5. Such of late time were those loud and lewd liars, Genebrard, Scioppus, Baldwin, and Bolsecus, who, being requested by the Popish side to write the lives of Calvin and Beza, is in all their writings alleged as canonical, though they know him to be (according to the old proverb) a friar, a liar. That thou and the Jews think to rebel] A likely matter; but that matters not. Any author serves Sanballat’ s turn, who for a need could have sucked such an accusation as this out of his own fingers. See Ezra 4:13.
For which cause thou buildest the wall] This was calumniari audacter, slander boldly, to as Machiavel taught, aliquid saltem adhaerebit. But if dirt will stick to a mud wall, yet to marble it will not. Nehemiah hath the Euge good of a clear conscience, and no wise man will believe this black-mouthed Blabberer. N. D., author of the three conversions, hath made Sir John Oldcastle, the martyr, a ruffian, a robber, and a rebel. His authority is taken from the stage-players, of like conscience for lies, as all men know. That thou mayest be their king] King of the Jews, as they called our Saviour, John 19:12. And as some think the ground of this report, if any there were, concerning Nehemiah’ s practising to be king, were the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah concerning the near approach of Christ’ s kingdom. Nihil est, quin male narrando possit depravarier (Terent.). According to these words] According to this report, or somewhat to the same sense.
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 6:6
(6) It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it.—Nehemiah can quote the very letter, with its dialectical change of Geshem into Gashmu. Sanballat sends Tobiah in his own name, and represents Geshem as circulating a report which, reaching the distant king, would be interpreted as rebellion. It is hinted that the heathen, or the nations, would take the part of the king. And the words of the prophets concerning the future King are referred to as likely to be attributed to Nehemiah’s ambition. Finally, the letter suggests the desirableness of friendly counsel to avert the danger.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 6:6
Verse 6. And Gashmu saith it] You are accused of crimes against the state, and Geshem, the Arabian, is your accuser.
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 6:6
6. among the heathen] R.V. among the nations, i.e. among the nations who surrounded the Jews, and were at this time combined against the Jews under Sanballat’s leadership. and Gashmu saith it] i.e. it is no mere vague rumour. It is asserted by individuals of position and influence. ‘Gashmu’ is generally assumed to be identical with Geshem (ch. Nehemiah 2:19, Nehemiah 6:1-2). It is very probable that the difference of pronunciation preserves a variation of the Arabian dialect. Compare the interchange of ‘Jether’ (Exodus 4:18) with ‘Jethro’ (Exodus 3:1). think to rebel] Cf. the charge in Ezra 4:12-16. ‘Think,’ cf. Nehemiah 6:2. This is the substance of the first rumour reported ‘among the nations.’ thou buildest the wall] This is the first indication of rebellion; and it is to be noted the blame is credited to Nehemiah alone (‘thou buildest,’ &c.), not to the people. that thou mayest be their king] R.V. and thou wouldest be king. The words might be rendered ‘and thou art becoming their king.’ The A.V. is wrong in making the words depend upon the previous clause. They represent the second rumour reported ‘among the nations,’ that Nehemiah, if not actually king, was on the point of becoming so. according to these words] A peculiar and unexpected termination to the sentence which recurs in the following verse. According to Rashi the expression refers back to the opening words of the letter, ‘It is reported;’ and the majority of commentators take the same view, considering it equivalent to ‘according to the tenour of these reports.’ Another explanation, which is more probable, regards it as a technical expression equivalent to ‘and so forth,’ ‘&c. &c.’, inserted to abbreviate the extract from the letter.
If so, it should be compared with the phrase ‘and so forth’ in Ezra 4:10-11; Ezra 4:17. Accepting this explanation, the phrase may be Nehemiah’s, to save himself the transcript of a long letter. But it may also have been inserted by Sanballat himself in the original letter. A general ‘&c. &c.’ would suggest that there were other similar reports in the background, which he did not at present choose to particularize.
Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 6:6
6. Gashmu saith it — He was one of the most malignant of the enemies. See on Nehemiah 2:19. The Jews think to rebel — A wicked slander, but based ostensibly on the fact that they were fortifying their ancient capital.
Sermons on Nehemiah 6:6
| Sermon | Description | |
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Six Paces and a Shout of Glory by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the divine order in our lives. He encourages believers to find contentment and joy in the plac |
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Nehemiah, Esther by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Nehemiah and the importance of having a burden for God's work. He emphasizes the need for one person who is not discouraged by o |
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The Sword and the Trowel by Paris Reidhead | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Nehemiah in the Bible, specifically Nehemiah 4:12-18. The Jews living near Nehemiah warned him multiple times that their enemie |
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With Nothing but God by B.B. Caldwell | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Job and how God stripped him of his wealth and health to deliver him from the pitfalls of Phariseeism. The preacher emphasizes t |
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Christ in Us - Part 3 by Norman Grubb | This sermon emphasizes the concept of being a whole person in Christ, highlighting the idea that God has made each individual whole and good, but they may have been misled by exter |
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Chosen Vessel - Surviving Opposition From Within by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not acting out of anger. He shares a story about Plato and his servant to illustrate the need for self-reflection and wise |
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Gethsemane - Ii: Blood Drawn, but No Atonement! by S. Lewis Johnson | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the Gethsemane agony of Jesus Christ. He begins by reading Mark 14:32-42, which describes Jesus' deep sorrow and distress in the garden. The |