Nehemiah 8:15

Nehemiah 8:15 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

So they proclaimed this message and spread it throughout their towns and in Jerusalem, saying, “Go out to the hill country and bring back branches of olive, wild olive, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees, to make booths, as it is written.”

King James Version KJV

And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written.

American Standard Version ASV

and that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and branches of wild olive, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And that they were to give out an order, and make it public in all their towns and in Jerusalem, saying, Go out to the mountain and get olive branches and branches of field olives and of myrtle, and palm branches and branches of thick trees, to make tents, as it says in the book.

Free Bible Version FBV

They were to make an announcement in all their towns and in Jerusalem, saying, “Go into the hills and bring back branches of olive, wild olive, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees, to make shelters to live in, as the Law requires.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And that they shoulde cause it to bee declared and proclaimed in all their cities, and in Ierusalem, saying, Go forth vnto the mount, and bring oliue branches, and pine branches, and branches of myrtus, and palme branches, and branches of thicke trees, to make boothes, as it is written.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

and that they proclaim and cause to pass over all their cities, (and in Jerusalem,) saying, 'Go ye out to the mount, and bring leaves of the olive, and leaves of the oil tree, and leaves of the myrtle, and leaves of the palms, and leaves of thick trees, to make booths as it is written.'

World English Bible WEB

and that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities and in Jerusalem, saying, “Go out to the mountain, and get olive branches, branches of wild olive, myrtle branches, palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make temporary shelters, as it is written.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth to the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as it is written.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And that they should proclaim and publish the word in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying: Go forth to the mount, and fetch branches of olive, and branches of beautiful wood, branches of myrtle, and branches of palm, and branches of thick trees, to make tabernacles, as it is written.

Translation for Translators T4T

They also learned that they should proclaim in Jerusalem and in all the towns that the people should go to the hills and cut branches from olive trees that they have planted and from wild olive trees and from myrtle trees and palm trees and fig trees. They should make shelters from these branches, and live in those shelters during the festival, just as Moses wrote that they should do.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 8:15

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 8:15 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר יַשְׁמִ֗יעוּ וְ/יַעֲבִ֨ירוּ ק֥וֹל בְּ/כָל עָרֵי/הֶם֮ וּ/בִ/ירוּשָׁלִַ֣ם לֵ/אמֹר֒ צְא֣וּ הָ/הָ֗ר וְ/הָבִ֨יאוּ֙ עֲלֵי זַ֨יִת֙ וַ/עֲלֵי עֵ֣ץ שֶׁ֔מֶן וַ/עֲלֵ֤י הֲדַס֙ וַ/עֲלֵ֣י תְמָרִ֔ים וַ/עֲלֵ֖י עֵ֣ץ עָבֹ֑ת לַ/עֲשֹׂ֥ת סֻכֹּ֖ת כַּ/כָּתֽוּב

וַ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Conj | Rel

יַשְׁמִ֗יעוּ shâmaʻ H8085 to hear V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp

וְ/יַעֲבִ֨ירוּ ʻâbar H5674 to pass Conj | V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp

ק֥וֹל qôwl H6963 voice N-ms

בְּ/כָל kôl H3605 all Prep | N-ms

עָרֵי/הֶם֮ ʻîyr H5892 excitement N-fp | Suff

וּ/בִ/ירוּשָׁלִַ֣ם Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 Jerusalem Conj | Prep | N-proper

לֵ/אמֹר֒ ʼâmar H559 to say Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

צְא֣וּ yâtsâʼ H3318 to come out V-Qal-Impv-2mp

הָ/הָ֗ר har H2022 mountain Art | N-ms

וְ/הָבִ֨יאוּ֙ bôwʼ H935 Lebo Conj | V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp

עֲלֵי ʻâleh H5929 leaf N-mp

זַ֨יִת֙ zayith H2132 olive N-ms

וַ/עֲלֵי ʻâleh H5929 leaf Conj | N-mp

עֵ֣ץ ʻêts H6086 tree N-ms

שֶׁ֔מֶן shemen H8081 oil N-ms

וַ/עֲלֵ֤י ʻâleh H5929 leaf Conj | N-mp

הֲדַס֙ hădaç H1918 myrtle N-ms

וַ/עֲלֵ֣י ʻâleh H5929 leaf Conj | N-mp

תְמָרִ֔ים tâmâr H8558 palm N-mp

וַ/עֲלֵ֖י ʻâleh H5929 leaf Conj | N-mp

עֵ֣ץ ʻêts H6086 tree N-ms

עָבֹ֑ת ʻâbôth H5687 leafy Adj

לַ/עֲשֹׂ֥ת ʻâsâh H6213 to make Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

סֻכֹּ֖ת çukkâh H5521 booth N-fp

כַּ/כָּתֽוּב kâthab H3789 to write Prep | V-Qal-Inf-c

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 8:15

וַ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Conj | 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.

יַשְׁמִ֗יעוּ shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp

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/יַעֲבִ֨ירוּ ʻâbar H5674 "to pass" Conj | V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp

This verb can mean to cross over or transition from one thing to another, and is sometimes used to describe being arrogant or crossing a boundary.

Definition: 1) to pass over or by or through, alienate, bring, carry, do away, take, take away, transgress 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, overflow, go over 1a2) to pass beyond 1a3) to pass through, traverse 1a3a) passers-through (participle) 1a3b) to pass through (the parts of victim in covenant) 1a4) to pass along, pass by, overtake and pass, sweep by 1a4a) passer-by (participle) 1a4b) to be past, be over 1a5) to pass on, go on, pass on before, go in advance of, pass along, travel, advance 1a6) to pass away 1a6a) to emigrate, leave (one's territory) 1a6b) to vanish 1a6c) to perish, cease to exist 1a6d) to become invalid, become obsolete (of law, decree) 1a6e) to be alienated, pass into other hands 1b) (Niphal) to be crossed 1c) (Piel) to impregnate, cause to cross 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to pass over, cause to bring over, cause to cross over, make over to, dedicate, devote 1d2) to cause to pass through 1d3) to cause to pass by or beyond or under, let pass by 1d4) to cause to pass away, cause to take away 1e) (Hithpael) to pass over

Usage: Occurs in 493 OT verses. KJV: alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath. See also: Genesis 8:1; Deuteronomy 27:2; 1 Samuel 25:19.

ק֥וֹל qôwl H6963 "voice" N-ms

A voice or sound, it can refer to the sound of a person speaking, an animal, or a musical instrument. In the Bible, it is often used to describe God's voice or the sound of praise and worship.

Definition: : sound/noise 1) voice, sound, noise 1a) voice 1b) sound (of instrument)

Usage: Occurs in 436 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, bleating, crackling, cry ([phrase] out), fame, lightness, lowing, noise, [phrase] hold peace, (pro-) claim, proclamation, [phrase] sing, sound, [phrase] spark, thunder(-ing), voice, [phrase] yell. See also: Genesis 3:8; Judges 5:11; Job 4:10.

בְּ/כָל kôl H3605 "all" Prep | 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.

עָרֵי/הֶם֮ ʻîyr H5892 "excitement" N-fp | Suff

In the Bible, this word refers to a city or town, often a place with a wall or a watchman. It is used to describe a settlement or encampment, like the city of Ai, which is mentioned in the book of Joshua. The word is used to identify specific locations in the Bible.

Definition: 1) excitement, anguish 1a) of terror

Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: Ai (from margin), city, court (from margin), town. See also: Genesis 4:17; Deuteronomy 3:6; Joshua 14:12.

וּ/בִ/ירוּשָׁלִַ֣ם Yᵉrûwshâlaim H3389 "Jerusalem" Conj | Prep | N-proper

Jerusalem is the capital city of Palestine, also known as the city of peace. It was the chief city of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split.

Definition: § Jerusalem = "teaching of peace" the chief city of Palestine and capital of the united kingdom and the nation of Judah after the split

Usage: Occurs in 600 OT verses. KJV: Jerusalem. See also: Joshua 10:1; 2 Kings 22:14; 2 Chronicles 24:6.

לֵ/אמֹר֒ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

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.

צְא֣וּ yâtsâʼ H3318 "to come out" V-Qal-Impv-2mp

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.

Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth

Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.

הָ/הָ֗ר har H2022 "mountain" Art | N-ms

A mountain or hill, sometimes used to describe a spiritual high point. In the Bible, it can refer to a real mountain or a figurative one. The word is often translated as hill or mount.

Definition: : mount/hill hill, mountain, hill country, mount

Usage: Occurs in 486 OT verses. KJV: hill (country), mount(-ain), [idiom] promotion. See also: Genesis 7:19; Deuteronomy 3:12; Judges 18:13.

וְ/הָבִ֨יאוּ֙ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" Conj | V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

עֲלֵי ʻâleh H5929 "leaf" N-mp

This Hebrew word means a leaf on a tree, often referring to foliage. It appears in the Bible when describing trees and plants, like in Genesis. The KJV translates it as branch or leaf.

Definition: leaf, leafage

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: branch, leaf. See also: Genesis 3:7; Proverbs 11:28; Psalms 1:3.

זַ֨יִת֙ zayith H2132 "olive" N-ms

The Hebrew word for olive tree or olive berry, often associated with oil and light. In Deuteronomy 8:8, the olive tree is listed as one of the blessings of the Promised Land, and in Matthew 24:3, Jesus teaches on the Mount of Olives.

Definition: 1) olive, olive tree 1a) olive tree 1b) olives 2) mountain facing Jerusalem on the east side

Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: olive (tree, -yard), Olivet. See also: Genesis 8:11; Nehemiah 5:11; Psalms 52:10.

וַ/עֲלֵי ʻâleh H5929 "leaf" Conj | N-mp

This Hebrew word means a leaf on a tree, often referring to foliage. It appears in the Bible when describing trees and plants, like in Genesis. The KJV translates it as branch or leaf.

Definition: leaf, leafage

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: branch, leaf. See also: Genesis 3:7; Proverbs 11:28; Psalms 1:3.

עֵ֣ץ ʻêts H6086 "tree" N-ms

This Hebrew word for tree or wood refers to a strong and firm object, like a tree or a wooden plank, as seen in the carpentry work of Jesus' earthly father Joseph in Matthew 13:55.

Definition: : wood 1) tree, wood, timber, stock, plank, stalk, stick, gallows 1a) tree, trees 1b) wood, pieces of wood, gallows, firewood, cedar-wood, woody flax

Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carpenter, gallows, helve, [phrase] pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick, stock, timber, tree, wood. See also: Genesis 1:11; Joshua 9:23; Psalms 1:3.

שֶׁ֔מֶן shemen H8081 "oil" N-ms

The Hebrew word for oil, often referring to olive oil, which was highly valued in ancient times. It symbolizes richness, anointing, and healing, and is used in various biblical contexts, including rituals and medicinal practices.

Definition: 1) fat, oil 1a) fat, fatness 1b) oil, olive oil 1b1) as staple, medicament or unguent 1b2) for anointing 1c) fat (of fruitful land, valleys) (metaph)

Usage: Occurs in 176 OT verses. KJV: anointing, [idiom] fat (things), [idiom] fruitful, oil(-ed), ointment, olive, [phrase] pine. See also: Genesis 28:18; Deuteronomy 8:8; Psalms 23:5.

וַ/עֲלֵ֤י ʻâleh H5929 "leaf" Conj | N-mp

This Hebrew word means a leaf on a tree, often referring to foliage. It appears in the Bible when describing trees and plants, like in Genesis. The KJV translates it as branch or leaf.

Definition: leaf, leafage

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: branch, leaf. See also: Genesis 3:7; Proverbs 11:28; Psalms 1:3.

הֲדַס֙ hădaç H1918 "myrtle" N-ms

Myrtle is a type of tree, often used to make perfume or as an ornament in the Bible, like in Nehemiah 8:15.

Definition: myrtle (tree)

Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: myrtle (tree). See also: Nehemiah 8:15; Zechariah 1:8; Isaiah 41:19.

וַ/עֲלֵ֣י ʻâleh H5929 "leaf" Conj | N-mp

This Hebrew word means a leaf on a tree, often referring to foliage. It appears in the Bible when describing trees and plants, like in Genesis. The KJV translates it as branch or leaf.

Definition: leaf, leafage

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: branch, leaf. See also: Genesis 3:7; Proverbs 11:28; Psalms 1:3.

תְמָרִ֔ים tâmâr H8558 "palm" N-mp

In the Bible, this word refers to a palm tree or a date palm. It is often used to describe a specific type of tree in the Old Testament, like in Exodus 15:27

Definition: palm tree, date palm

Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: palm (tree). See also: Exodus 15:27; 2 Chronicles 28:15; Psalms 92:13.

וַ/עֲלֵ֖י ʻâleh H5929 "leaf" Conj | N-mp

This Hebrew word means a leaf on a tree, often referring to foliage. It appears in the Bible when describing trees and plants, like in Genesis. The KJV translates it as branch or leaf.

Definition: leaf, leafage

Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: branch, leaf. See also: Genesis 3:7; Proverbs 11:28; Psalms 1:3.

עֵ֣ץ ʻêts H6086 "tree" N-ms

This Hebrew word for tree or wood refers to a strong and firm object, like a tree or a wooden plank, as seen in the carpentry work of Jesus' earthly father Joseph in Matthew 13:55.

Definition: : wood 1) tree, wood, timber, stock, plank, stalk, stick, gallows 1a) tree, trees 1b) wood, pieces of wood, gallows, firewood, cedar-wood, woody flax

Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carpenter, gallows, helve, [phrase] pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick, stock, timber, tree, wood. See also: Genesis 1:11; Joshua 9:23; Psalms 1:3.

עָבֹ֑ת ʻâbôth H5687 "leafy" Adj

Describing something as leafy or dense with foliage, like a thick forest. In the Bible, it is used to describe the garden of Eden in Genesis 2:9.

Definition: having interwoven foliage, leafy, dense with foliage

Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: thick. See also: Leviticus 23:40; Ezekiel 6:13; Ezekiel 20:28.

לַ/עֲשֹׂ֥ת ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

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.

סֻכֹּ֖ת çukkâh H5521 "booth" N-fp

This word describes a small, temporary shelter or booth. It is used to describe a thicket or covert, as seen in the KJV translations. In the Bible, it is used to describe the tabernacles or tents of the Israelites.

Definition: 1) thicket, covert, booth 1a) thicket 1b) booth (rude or temporary shelter)

Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: booth, cottage, covert, pavilion, tabernacle, tent. See also: Genesis 33:17; Nehemiah 8:15; Psalms 18:12.

כַּ/כָּתֽוּב kâthab H3789 "to write" Prep | 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.

Study Notes — Nehemiah 8:15

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Nehemiah 8:15 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 8:15
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 8:15
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 8:15
Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 8:15
Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15
Sermons on Nehemiah 8:15

Context — The Feast of Tabernacles

13On the second day of the month, the heads of all the families, along with the priests and Levites, gathered around Ezra the scribe to study the words of the Law. 14And they found written in the Law, which the LORD had commanded through Moses, that the Israelites were to dwell in booths during the feast of the seventh month,

15and that they should proclaim this message and spread it throughout their towns and in Jerusalem, saying, “Go out to the hill country and bring back branches of olive, wild olive, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees, to make booths, as it is written.”

16And the people went out, brought back branches, and made booths on their own rooftops, in their courtyards, in the courts of the house of God, and in the squares by the Water Gate and by the Gate of Ephraim. 17The whole assembly that had returned from exile made booths and lived in them. From the days of Joshua son of Nun until that day, the Israelites had not celebrated like this. And there was great rejoicing.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Leviticus 23:40	On the first day you are to gather the fruit of majestic trees, the branches of palm trees, and the boughs of leafy trees and of willows of the brook. And you are to rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days.
2	Deuteronomy 16:16	Three times a year all your men are to appear before the LORD your God in the place He will choose: at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles. No one should appear before the LORD empty-handed.
3	Leviticus 23:4	These are the LORD’s appointed feasts, the sacred assemblies you are to proclaim at their appointed times.
4	Genesis 8:11	And behold, the dove returned to him in the evening with a freshly plucked olive leaf in her beak. So Noah knew that the waters had receded from the earth.
5	Revelation 7:9	After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hands.
6	John 12:13	They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, shouting: “Hosanna!” “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the King of Israel!”
7	Judges 9:48–49	he and all his men went up to Mount Zalmon. Abimelech took his axe in his hand and cut a branch from the trees, which he lifted to his shoulder, saying to his men, “Hurry and do what you have seen me do.” So each man also cut his own branch and followed Abimelech. Then they piled the branches against the inner chamber and set it on fire above them, killing everyone in the tower of Shechem, about a thousand men and women.
8	Matthew 21:1	As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent out two disciples,

Nehemiah 8:15 Summary

[Nehemiah 8:15 is about the Israelites being reminded to build booths, or temporary shelters, to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles, as commanded in Leviticus 23:40-43. This was a way for them to remember God's care and provision for them, just like He cared for them in the wilderness, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:2-5. By building these booths, the Israelites were obeying God's commands and showing their gratitude for His blessings, which is an important part of our faith, as emphasized in 1 Thessalonians 5:18.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the specific types of trees mentioned in Nehemiah 8:15?

The trees mentioned, such as olive, wild olive, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees, were likely chosen for their abundance and symbolic meaning, as seen in Leviticus 23:40, where the Israelites are commanded to take branches of these trees to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles.

Why did the Israelites need to be reminded to build booths, as instructed in Nehemiah 8:15?

The Israelites had not celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles in this way since the days of Joshua, as mentioned in Nehemiah 8:17, so they needed to be reminded of this important commandment, which is also found in Leviticus 23:42-43.

What is the purpose of building booths, as mentioned in Nehemiah 8:15?

The booths were a reminder of the Israelites' time in the wilderness, as described in Leviticus 23:43, and were meant to help them remember God's provision and care for them, as seen in Deuteronomy 8:2-5.

How does Nehemiah 8:15 relate to the overall theme of the book of Nehemiah?

Nehemiah 8:15 is part of the larger story of the Israelites' return to Jerusalem and their efforts to rebuild and restore their city and their faith, as seen in Nehemiah 1:3 and Ezra 1:1-4, and it highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, as emphasized in Deuteronomy 6:1-3.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I can remember God's provision and care for me, just like the Israelites were reminded through the Feast of Tabernacles?
How can I apply the principle of obedience to God's commands, as seen in Nehemiah 8:15, to my own life and circumstances?
What are some things that I can do to celebrate and give thanks for God's blessings in my life, just like the Israelites did in Nehemiah 8:17?
How can I balance the need for reminders and traditions, like the Feast of Tabernacles, with the need for personal and spiritual growth, as seen in 2 Peter 3:18?

Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 8:15

And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem,.... That is, as Jarchi interprets it, by supplying it thus, and they commanded that they should publish, c.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 8:15

And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches,

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15

And that they should publish, i.e. and they found this also written, which is to be supplied out of the former verse, that they should, &c., which, though it be not particularly required, so as is expressed in the words here following, yet in the general is required by virtue of that precept, . And according to this translation, it must be understood in the close of this verse, that they did accordingly publish and proclaim, &c. But these words may be rendered, which (as this Hebrew word is rendered here, , and most commonly) also they did publish, &c. For so they did, as is evident and acknowledged; and it seems fit that so much should be expressed; and these words being particular and proper to this special occasion, seem to intimate that this is rather an historical relation of what they now did, than a declaration of that which the law required them to do, which was but in very general terms, and not so exact and particular as this following precept is said to be. Unto the mount; the Mount of Olives, which was next Jerusalem, and stored with olive branches, and probably with the rest here mentioned; for these trees may seem to have been planted hereabouts principally for the use of this capital city in this very feast, which, though long neglected, should have been celebrated once every year. And therefore this place seems to be here designed as the most eminent place, but with a usual synecdoche, this place being put for any place nearest to the several cities of Judah, where these branches were to be procured. Branches of thick trees; of which See Poole ""; See Poole "".

Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15

Nehemiah 8:15 And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick trees, to make booths, as [it is] written.Ver. 15. And that they should publish and proclaim] Heb. Make a voice to pass, viz. for better preparation and greater solemnity. God will not take up with a careless and slubbered service; he is a great King, and stands greatly upon his seniority, Malachi 1:14. Go forth unto the mount] Which is covered with all sorts of trees; and nothing like the country Axylus, which is so called, because no trees grow in it, no, not so much as thorns, or any kind of fuel. Through this country marched Manlius, the Roman general, when he went against the Gallograeci (Liv. lib. 38). And fetch olive branches, and pine branches, &c.] Fit for shelter and shadow against the weather. That is very strange that yet is reported by authors of good note, concerning certain trees in Brazil of that size that whole families live in an arm of one of them, every tree being as populous as many of our villages. And branches of thick trees] Tied together with willows of the brook, Leviticus 23:40.

Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15

(15) Saying.—There is no such command in Leviticus; the Septuagint inserts, “And Ezra spake.” But it is better to adopt Houbigant’s slight emendation of the text, which thus runs: “And when they heard it, they proclaimed,” &c. The command, then, is to go out to the Mount of Olives, and gather, not precisely the branches which the ancient law required, but such as circumstances allowed.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15

Verse 15. Fetch olive branches] For every thing concerning this feast of tabernacles, see the notes on Lev. xxiii., and the other places there referred to.

Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 8:15

15. and that they should publish and proclaim … saying] In Leviticus 23:1; Leviticus 23:4 the children of Israel are commanded to ‘proclaim the set feasts of the Lord.’ The actual words of this verse are nowhere to be found in the Pentateuch. But there is no reason on that account to suppose a corruption in the text, and to read as Houbigant, whom Rawlinson follows, ‘And when they heard it, they proclaimed &c.,’ a text for which only a slight emendation is necessary. The LXX. puts a full stop at ‘Jerusalem,’ and begins a new sentence, ‘And Ezra said, Go forth.’ The fact is that the writer only refers in a general way to the substance of the passage in Leviticus 23 relating to ‘the feast of tabernacles.’ The mention of ‘Jerusalem’ is alone sufficient to show the spirit of free adaptation in which the reference to ‘the law’ is made. Possibly Jerusalem is mentioned as embodying the Deuteronomic phrase ‘the place which the Lord shall choose’ in Deuteronomy 16:15. the mount] i.e. the mountain region or hill country of Judah. Not to be restricted to the Mt of Olives. pine branches] R.V. branches of wild olive. Cf. Isaiah 41:19, ‘the oil tree’ (Marg. Or, oleaster). Both the olive (ἐλαία) and the wild olive (ἀγριέλαιος) were conspicuous for their thick foliage; cf. Romans 11:17. For ‘palms’ near Jerusalem cf. Mark 11:8, and Jericho ‘the city of palms’ (Judges 1:16; Judges 3:13; 2 Chronicles 28:15). as it is written] The reference is evidently to Leviticus 23:40, ‘And ye shall take you on the first day the fruit of goodly trees, branches of palm trees, and boughs of thick trees, and willows of the brook.’ But the quotation only agrees in the general sense. The only words which are found in both passages are ‘palm’ and ‘thick trees’ (Ezekiel 20:28). The ‘goodly trees’ (‘ec̣ ? hadar) possibly include ‘the branches of myrtle’ (‘eley hιdas). The myrtle (cf. Isaiah 55:13; Zechariah 1:8; Zechariah 1:10-11) is mentioned with ‘the wild olive’ in Isaiah 41:19.

Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 8:15

The mount - The “mount of Olives” is probably intended. Pine branches - Rather, “branches of the wild olive.” The actual trees named by the Law may have become scarce.

Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:15

15. Unto the mount — Where the branches of trees would be naturally sought. Olive… pine… myrtle… palm… thick trees — Leviticus xxiii, 40, mentions only palms, thick trees, and willows.

Sermons on Nehemiah 8:15

	Sermon	Description
	The Breaking of Bread by Stephen Kaung	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of announcing and remembering the death of the Lord Jesus. The act of breaking bread and drinking the cup is a testimony to th
	Exodus 23;14 Missionary Conf. by J.M. Davies	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the prophetic and commemorative nature of the death and resurrection of Christ. These events are foundational to Christian teaching and serve
	Worship - Notes of a Reading John 4 by John Nelson Darby	John Nelson Darby emphasizes that true worship is distinct from preaching and requires a relationship with God through salvation. He explains that worship can only occur in the pre
	The Vocation of the Church by T. Austin-Sparks	T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the church's vocation as a prophetic instrument representing God's mind and purpose, highlighting the need for believers to see the fullness of God's re
	Blessed From the World by John Ker	John Ker preaches about the journey of faith, comparing it to the flight of a field-lark rising above its nest to see the beauty of God's creation and the return of a dove to its a
	A Whole New World Is Coming by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having joy and confidence in one's Christian life. He encourages those who may be doubting their readiness for heaven to c
	Man’s Hour of Darkness Is God’s Hour of Power by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding feast in Cana. He emphasizes that Jesus never acted without significance and that th