Nehemiah 8:9
Nehemiah 8:9 in Multiple Translations
Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to all of them, “This day is holy to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping as they heard the words of the Law.
¶ And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.
And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto Jehovah your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.
And Nehemiah, who was the Tirshatha, and Ezra, the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were the teachers of the people, said to all the people, This day is holy to the Lord your God; let there be no sorrow or weeping; for all the people were weeping on hearing the words of the law.
Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were teaching the people told them all, “This is a holy day to the Lord your God. Don't mourn or cry,” for everyone was crying as they heard the Law being read.
Then Nehemiah (which is Tirshatha) and Ezra the Priest and scribe, and the Leuites that instructed the people, saide vnto all the people, This day is holie vnto ye Lord your God: mourne not, neither weepe: for all the people wept, whe they heard the words of the Lawe.
And Nehemiah — he [is] the Tirshatha — saith (and Ezra the priest, the scribe, and the Levites who are instructing the people) to all the people, 'To-day is holy to Jehovah your God, do not mourn, nor weep:' for all the people are weeping at their hearing the words of the law.
Nehemiah, who was the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “Today is holy to the LORD your God. Don’t mourn, nor weep.” For all the people wept when they heard the words of the law.
And Nehemiah, who is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest, the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said to all the people, This day is holy to the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.
And Nehemias (he is Athersatha) and Esdras the priest and scribe, and the Levites who interpreted to all the people, said: This is a holy day to the Lord our God: do not mourn, nor weep: for all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.
Then I, Nehemiah the governor, and Ezra, and the Levites who were interpreting what was being read to the people, said to them, “Yahweh your God considers that this day is very holy/sacred. So do not be sad or cry!” They said that because all the people were crying as they were listening to the laws of Moses.
Berean Amplified Bible — Nehemiah 8:9
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 8:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
נְחֶמְיָ֣ה
ה֣וּא
הַ/תִּרְשָׁ֡תָא
וְ/עֶזְרָ֣א
הַ/כֹּהֵ֣ן
הַ/סֹּפֵ֡ר
וְ/הַ/לְוִיִּם֩
הַ/מְּבִינִ֨ים
אֶת
הָ/עָ֜ם
לְ/כָל
הָ/עָ֗ם
הַ/יּ֤וֹם
קָדֹֽשׁ
הוּא֙
לַ/יהוָ֣ה
אֱלֹהֵי/כֶ֔ם
אַל
תִּֽתְאַבְּל֖וּ
וְ/אַל
תִּבְכּ֑וּ
כִּ֤י
בוֹכִים֙
כָּל
הָ/עָ֔ם
כְּ/שָׁמְעָ֖/ם
אֶת
דִּבְרֵ֥י
הַ/תּוֹרָֽה
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
נְחֶמְיָ֣ה
Nᵉchemyâh
H5166
Nehemiah
N-proper
ה֣וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Pron
הַ/תִּרְשָׁ֡תָא
Tirshâthâʼ
H8660
governor
Art | N-ms
וְ/עֶזְרָ֣א
ʻEzrâʼ
H5830
Ezra
Conj | N-proper
הַ/כֹּהֵ֣ן
kôhên
H3548
priest
Art | N-ms
הַ/סֹּפֵ֡ר
çâphar
H5608
to recount
Art | N-ms
וְ/הַ/לְוִיִּם֩
Lêvîyîy
H3881
Levi
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
הַ/מְּבִינִ֨ים
bîyn
H995
to understand
Art | V-Hiphil
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הָ/עָ֜ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
לְ/כָל
kôl
H3605
all
Prep | N-ms
הָ/עָ֗ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
הַ/יּ֤וֹם
yôwm
H3117
day
Art | N-ms
קָדֹֽשׁ
qâdôwsh
H6918
holy
Adj
הוּא֙
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Pron
לַ/יהוָ֣ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
Prep | N-proper
אֱלֹהֵי/כֶ֔ם
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
God
N-mp | Suff
אַל
ʼal
H408
not
Part
תִּֽתְאַבְּל֖וּ
ʼâbal
H56
to mourn
V-Hithpael-Juss-2mp
וְ/אַל
ʼal
H408
not
Conj | Part
תִּבְכּ֑וּ
bâkâh
H1058
to weep
V-Qal-Juss-2mp
כִּ֤י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
בוֹכִים֙
bâkâh
H1058
to weep
V-Qal
כָּל
kôl
H3605
all
N-ms
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
כְּ/שָׁמְעָ֖/ם
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
דִּבְרֵ֥י
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
N-mp
הַ/תּוֹרָֽה
tôwrâh
H8451
instruction
Art | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Nehemiah 8:9
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
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.
נְחֶמְיָ֣ה
Nᵉchemyâh
H5166
"Nehemiah"
N-proper
Nehemiah was a leader who helped the Israelites return from exile, becoming governor of Judah. His name means Jehovah comforts, and he played a key role in rebuilding Jerusalem.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.3.16; son of: Azbuk (H5802) § Nehemiah = "Jehovah comforts" 1) the son of Hachaliah, cupbearer to king Artaxerxes, who became governor of Judah after the return from exile 2) one of the 12 heads of the people who returned from exile with Zerubbabel 3) son of Azbuk and ruler of the half part of Beth-zur, who helped to repair the wall of Jerusalem
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Nehemiah. See also: Ezra 2:2; Nehemiah 8:9; Nehemiah 12:47.
ה֣וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
הַ/תִּרְשָׁ֡תָא
Tirshâthâʼ
H8660
"governor"
Art | N-ms
Tirshatha was a title used by Persian governors in Judea, like Nehemiah. It refers to a high-ranking official. This title appears in the book of Nehemiah.
Definition: 1) Tirshatha-governor 1a) a title used by the Persian governor in Judea 1a1) Nehemiah used this title
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: Tirshatha. See also: Ezra 2:63; Nehemiah 7:69; Nehemiah 10:2.
וְ/עֶזְרָ֣א
ʻEzrâʼ
H5830
"Ezra"
Conj | N-proper
Ezra was an Israelite priest and scribe who led reforms in Jerusalem after the Exile, working with Nehemiah. His name means 'help'.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Neh.12.1 § Ezra = "help" 1) the priest and scribe who led the reforms of the returned exiles in Jerusalem; co-worker with Nehemiah 2) a priest with Zerubbabel 3) another post-exilic Jew
Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: Ezra. See also: Ezra 7:1; Nehemiah 8:2; Nehemiah 12:36.
הַ/כֹּהֵ֣ן
kôhên
H3548
"priest"
Art | N-ms
In the Bible, a priest is a person who serves God and leads others in worship, like the Levitical priests in Exodus. They were responsible for making sacrifices and following God's laws. This term is also used to describe Jesus as a priest-king.
Definition: 1) priest, principal officer or chief ruler 1a) priest-king (Melchizedek, Messiah) 1b) pagan priests 1c) priests of Jehovah 1d) Levitical priests 1e) Zadokite priests 1f) Aaronic priests 1g) the high priest Aramaic equivalent: ka.hen (כָּהֵן "priest" H3549)
Usage: Occurs in 653 OT verses. KJV: chief ruler, [idiom] own, priest, prince, principal officer. See also: Genesis 14:18; Leviticus 13:33; Numbers 17:2.
הַ/סֹּפֵ֡ר
çâphar
H5608
"to recount"
Art | N-ms
This word refers to a scribe or secretary who records or inscribes information. It is used in the Bible to describe someone who counts or enumerates things. The KJV translates it as 'scribe, tell, writer'.
Definition: v 1) to count, recount, relate 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to count (things) 1a2) to number, take account of, reckon 1b) (Niphal) to be counted, be numbered 1c) (Piel) to recount, rehearse, declare 1c1) to recount (something), rehearse 1c2) to talk 1c3) to count exactly or accurately 1d) (Pual) to be recounted, be rehearsed, be related
Usage: Occurs in 154 OT verses. KJV: commune, (ac-) count; declare, number, [phrase] penknife, reckon, scribe, shew forth, speak, talk, tell (out), writer. See also: Genesis 15:5; Esther 8:9; Psalms 2:7.
וְ/הַ/לְוִיִּם֩
Lêvîyîy
H3881
"Levi"
Conj | Art | Ngmpa
A Levite is a descendant of Levi, one of Jacob's 12 sons, mentioned in Genesis 29:34. Levi's brothers include Reuben, Simeon, and Judah. His descendants played a key role in Israel's spiritual life.
Definition: Someone from the tribe of Levi living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.29.34; son of: Israel (H3478) and Leah (H3812); brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Judah (H3063), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); half-brother of: Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); father of: Gershon (H1648), Kohath (H6955), Merari (H4847) and Jochebed (H3115) Another name of le.vi (לֵוִי "Levi" H3878) § Levite, of Levi "joined to" 1) the descendants of Levi, the 3rd son of Jacob by Leah 1a) the tribe descended from Levi specially set aside by God for His service
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: Leviite. See also: Exodus 4:14; 1 Chronicles 6:33; Ezra 6:20.
הַ/מְּבִינִ֨ים
bîyn
H995
"to understand"
Art | V-Hiphil
To understand or discern, this verb means to separate mentally and know something with your mind, as seen in Proverbs where it talks about gaining insight.
Definition: 1) to discern, understand, consider 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to perceive, discern 1a2) to understand, know (with the mind) 1a3) to observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider 1a4) to have discernment, insight, understanding 1b) (Niphal) to be discerning, intelligent, discreet, have understanding 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to understand 1c2) to cause to understand, give understanding, teach 1d) (Hithpolel) to show oneself discerning or attentive, consider diligently 1e) (Polel) to teach, instruct 2) (TWOT) prudent, regard
Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: attend, consider, be cunning, diligently, direct, discern, eloquent, feel, inform, instruct, have intelligence, know, look well to, mark, perceive, be prudent, regard, (can) skill(-full), teach, think, (cause, make to, get, give, have) understand(-ing), view, (deal) wise(-ly, man). See also: Genesis 41:33; Psalms 139:2; Psalms 5:2.
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.
הָ/עָ֜ם
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.
לְ/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.
הָ/עָ֗ם
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.
הַ/יּ֤וֹם
yôwm
H3117
"day"
Art | N-ms
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
קָדֹֽשׁ
qâdôwsh
H6918
"holy"
Adj
Holy means set apart or sacred, used to describe God, angels, and saints. In the Bible, it is often used to describe things or people dedicated to God's service, like the Temple in Jerusalem or the prophets who spoke on God's behalf.
Definition: : holy sacred, holy, Holy One, saint, set apart
Usage: Occurs in 108 OT verses. KJV: holy (One), saint. See also: Exodus 19:6; Psalms 89:19; Psalms 16:3.
הוּא֙
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
לַ/יהוָ֣ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
Prep | 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.
אֱלֹהֵי/כֶ֔ם
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
"God"
N-mp | Suff
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.
אַל
ʼal
H408
"not"
Part
Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.
Definition: 1) not, no, nor, neither, nothing (as wish or preference) 1a) do not, let not (with a verb) 1b) let there not be (with a verb understood) 1c) not, no (with substantive) 1d) nothing (as substantive) Aramaic equivalent: al (אַל "not" H0409)
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.
תִּֽתְאַבְּל֖וּ
ʼâbal
H56
"to mourn"
V-Hithpael-Juss-2mp
To mourn or lament, as seen in human and inanimate objects, like gates or land, and used in various forms in the Bible.
Definition: 1) to mourn, lament 1a) (Qal) to mourn, lament 1a1) of humans 1a2) of inanimate objects (fig.) 1a2a) of gates 1a2b) of land 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to mourn, cause to mourn (fig.) 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to mourn 1c2) play the mourner
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: lament, mourn. See also: Genesis 37:34; Isaiah 33:9; Isaiah 3:26.
וְ/אַל
ʼal
H408
"not"
Conj | Part
Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.
Definition: 1) not, no, nor, neither, nothing (as wish or preference) 1a) do not, let not (with a verb) 1b) let there not be (with a verb understood) 1c) not, no (with substantive) 1d) nothing (as substantive) Aramaic equivalent: al (אַל "not" H0409)
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.
תִּבְכּ֑וּ
bâkâh
H1058
"to weep"
V-Qal-Juss-2mp
To weep means to cry or shed tears, often in grief or sadness. In the Bible, weeping is a common expression of emotion, as seen in the stories of David and Jeremiah, who both wept bitterly in times of sorrow and repentance.
Definition: 1) to weep, bewail, cry, shed tears 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to weep (in grief, humiliation, or joy) 1a2) to weep bitterly (with cognate acc.) 1a3) to weep upon (embrace and weep) 1a4) to bewail 1b) (Piel) participle 1b1) lamenting 1b2) bewailing
Usage: Occurs in 100 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, bewail, complain, make lamentation, [idiom] more, mourn, [idiom] sore, [idiom] with tears, weep. See also: Genesis 21:16; 2 Samuel 12:21; Psalms 69:11.
כִּ֤י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
בוֹכִים֙
bâkâh
H1058
"to weep"
V-Qal
To weep means to cry or shed tears, often in grief or sadness. In the Bible, weeping is a common expression of emotion, as seen in the stories of David and Jeremiah, who both wept bitterly in times of sorrow and repentance.
Definition: 1) to weep, bewail, cry, shed tears 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to weep (in grief, humiliation, or joy) 1a2) to weep bitterly (with cognate acc.) 1a3) to weep upon (embrace and weep) 1a4) to bewail 1b) (Piel) participle 1b1) lamenting 1b2) bewailing
Usage: Occurs in 100 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, bewail, complain, make lamentation, [idiom] more, mourn, [idiom] sore, [idiom] with tears, weep. See also: Genesis 21:16; 2 Samuel 12:21; Psalms 69:11.
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/עָ֔ם
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.
כְּ/שָׁמְעָ֖/ם
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
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.
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.
דִּבְרֵ֥י
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
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.
הַ/תּוֹרָֽה
tôwrâh
H8451
"instruction"
Art | N-fs
The Hebrew word for instruction or law, referring to the Ten Commandments or the first five books of the Bible, guiding human behavior and moral code.
Definition: 1) law, direction, instruction 1a) instruction, direction (human or divine) 1a1) body of prophetic teaching 1a2) instruction in Messianic age 1a3) body of priestly direction or instruction 1a4) body of legal directives 1b) law 1b1) law of the burnt offering 1b2) of special law, codes of law 1c) custom, manner 1d) the Deuteronomic or Mosaic Law
Usage: Occurs in 213 OT verses. KJV: law. See also: Genesis 26:5; Nehemiah 8:7; Psalms 1:2.
Study Notes — Nehemiah 8:9
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Nehemiah 8:9 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 8:9
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 8:9
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
- Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
- Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
- Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 8:9
- Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 8:9
- Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
- Sermons on Nehemiah 8:9
Context — Ezra Reads the Law
7The Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, and Pelaiah—instructed the people in the Law as they stood in their places.
8So they read from the Book of the Law of God, explaining it and giving insight, so that the people could understand what was being read.
9Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to all of them, “This day is holy to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping as they heard the words of the Law.
10Then Nehemiah told them, “Go and eat what is rich, drink what is sweet, and send out portions to those who have nothing prepared, since today is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” 11And the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, since today is holy. Do not grieve.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nehemiah 7:65 | The governor ordered them not to eat the most holy things until there was a priest to consult the Urim and Thummim. |
| 2 | Nehemiah 7:70 | Some of the heads of the families contributed to the project. The governor gave to the treasury 1,000 darics of gold, 50 bowls, and 530 priestly garments. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 12:12 | And you shall rejoice before the LORD your God—you, your sons and daughters, your menservants and maidservants, and the Levite within your gates, since he has no portion or inheritance among you. |
| 4 | Nehemiah 8:2 | On the first day of the seventh month, Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of men and women and all who could listen and understand. |
| 5 | Deuteronomy 16:11 | and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God in the place He will choose as a dwelling for His Name—you, your sons and daughters, your menservants and maidservants, and the Levite within your gates, as well as the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widows among you. |
| 6 | Ezra 2:63 | The governor ordered them not to eat the most holy things until there was a priest to consult the Urim and Thummim. |
| 7 | Isaiah 61:3 | to console the mourners in Zion— to give them a crown of beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for a spirit of despair. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified. |
| 8 | Leviticus 23:24 | “Speak to the Israelites and say, ‘On the first day of the seventh month you are to have a day of rest, a sacred assembly announced by trumpet blasts. |
| 9 | Ecclesiastes 3:4 | a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, |
| 10 | Deuteronomy 16:14–15 | And you shall rejoice in your feast—you, your sons and daughters, your menservants and maidservants, and the Levite, as well as the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widows among you. For seven days you shall celebrate a feast to the LORD your God in the place He will choose, because the LORD your God will bless you in all your produce and in all the work of your hands, so that your joy will be complete. |
Nehemiah 8:9 Summary
This verse shows us that the people were deeply moved by the words of the Law and were weeping because of their sins. But Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites encouraged them not to mourn or weep, because the day was holy to the Lord and a time for joy (as we see in Deuteronomy 16:14-15). We can learn from this that even when we are sorrowful for our sins, we can find joy in the Lord's forgiveness and love (as seen in Psalm 103:12). By focusing on God's love and forgiveness, we can find strength and joy, even in difficult times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the people weeping in Nehemiah 8:9?
The people were weeping because they were convicted of their sins as they heard the words of the Law, similar to the response of the people in Ezra 10:1 when they realized their disobedience to God's commands.
What does it mean that the day was 'holy to the LORD your God'?
This phrase means that the day was set apart for the Lord, a time for the people to focus on their relationship with God and to worship Him, as seen in Leviticus 23:2-4 where the Lord commands the Israelites to observe holy convocations.
How can we balance sorrow for sin with the joy of the Lord?
According to Nehemiah 8:10, the joy of the Lord is our strength, and we can find this joy by focusing on God's love and forgiveness, as seen in Psalm 32:1-2 where David finds joy in the forgiveness of his sins.
What role did the Levites play in this scene?
The Levites were instructing the people in the Law, explaining it and giving insight so that the people could understand what was being read, as seen in Nehemiah 8:7-8, and they also helped to calm the people and encourage them to rejoice in the Lord.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can set aside time to focus on my relationship with God and to worship Him?
- How do I respond when I am convicted of my sins, and what steps can I take to repent and seek forgiveness?
- In what ways can I find joy in the Lord, even in the midst of sorrow or difficult circumstances?
- How can I balance my sorrow for sin with the joy of the Lord, and what role does forgiveness play in this process?
Gill's Exposition on Nehemiah 8:9
And Nehemiah which is the Tirshatha,.... Or governor, as Zerubbabel had been, and now Nehemiah, see Ezra 2:63 and Ezra the priest and scribe; see Ne 8:1, and the Levites that taught the people; see
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Nehemiah 8:9
And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
This day is holy unto the Lord your God, to wit, as a day of feasting and thanksgiving to God, and rejoicing in his mercies; for otherwise even fasting days were holy to God in the general, though not in the sense here meant. All the people wept, out of a deep sense of their great guilt, and of their extreme danger by reason of it.
Trapp's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
Nehemiah 8:9 And Nehemiah, which [is] the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day [is] holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law.Ver. 9. And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha] Or governor. See Ezra 2:63. He had Jovianus, the emperor’ s, wished happiness, which was, that he might govern wise men, and that wise men might govern him. And Ezra the priest and scribe] See Nehemiah 8:3. And the Levites that taught the people] That numerus nominum, id est, hominum, of names that is of men, mentioned Nehemiah 8:7, men most happy in such melting hearers. We in this day do prevail as little as Bede did when he preached to a heap of stones. This day is holy unto the Lord your God] Your mourning, therefore, now is as much out of season as Samson’ s wife’ s weeping was at her wedding. All God’ s worships were to be celebrated with joy, Deuteronomy 12:7, and sacrifices offered in mourning were abomination, Hosea 9:4.
See Malachi 2:13. Mourn not, nor weep] sc. Under sense of sin, and fear of wrath. This they were called to at another time, Isaiah 22:12 James 4:9-10; but everything is beautiful in its season, Ecclesiastes 3:11. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law] For like cause as Josiah did, 2 Kings 22:11; 2 Kings 22:19. His tender heart was troubled and terrified by the menaces of God’ s mouth uttered against his and the people’ s sins. Hence some infer that it was the decalogue, together with the malediction, that was now read and applied; and that made them weep so fast. Get thee God’ s law, saith holy Bradford, as a glass to look in, so shall you see your face foul arrayed, and so shameful, mangy, pockey, and scabbed, that you cannot but be sorry at the contemplation thereof, especially if you look to the tag tied to God’ s law; which is such as cannot but make us cast our currish tails between our legs if we believe it. But O faithless hard hearts! O Jezebel’ s guests, rocked and laid asleep in her bed! &c.
(Serm. of Rep.).
Ellicott's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
(9) Mourn not, nor weep.—The days of high festival were unsuitable for public and, as it were, objective sorrow. The Day of Atonement was coming for that; as also the special day of fasting and covenant, which was already in the plan of Nehemiah and Ezra.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
Verse 9. Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha] This puts it out of doubt that, when the Tirshatha is mentioned, Nehemiah himself is intended, Tirshatha being the name of his office. Mourn not, nor weep.] This is a holy day to God: a day appointed for general rejoicing in Him who has turned our captivity, restored to us his law, and again established among us his ordinances.
Cambridge Bible on Nehemiah 8:9
9. Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha] R.V. N. which was &c. On the title here used see note on Ezra 2:63. Nehemiah in his own ‘Memoirs’ speaks of himself as ‘Pekhah’ (cf. Nehemiah 5:14-15; Nehemiah 5:18); and in consequence some (e.g. Smend) suggest that the title applied here and in Nehemiah 10:2 to Nehemiah, is a gloss. Others also (see note on Nehemiah 8:1) who refer the events described in this chapter to the year 457, consider Nehemiah’s name to be an interpolation. But the occurrence of the title is only evidence that we are no longer dealing with the writings of Nehemiah, who would have styled himself ‘Pekhah.’ The LXX. omits the title: the Vulg. gives Athersatha. The supposition that Nehemiah purposely eschews the honorific title ‘Tirshatha,’ and prefers a more lowly term ‘pekhah’ is based on an imaginary distinction between the words.
This day is holy] Both as a new-moon day and as the day on which the Law was read. See note on Nehemiah 8:2. It may be doubted whether Ezra could here be referring to ‘the Holy Convocation’ prescribed for the 1st of Tisri in Leviticus 23:24. There is no mention in this context either of the Feast of Trumpets on the 1st, or of the Day of Atonement on the 9th of Tisri. mourn not, nor weep] The people had broken out into demonstrations of grief. As they listened to the words of the Law, they perceived in how many ways they had violated it. Compare the effect of hearing ‘the words of the book of the law’ upon Josiah, 2 Kings 22:11. It is clear the people generally were ignorant of the requirements of the Law. May we not infer that the priests had kept to themselves the contents of the collections of laws?
Barnes' Notes on Nehemiah 8:9
Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha - Hereto, Nehemiah has called himself פחה pechâh Nehemiah 5:14-15, Nehemiah 5:18, which is the ordinary word for “governor.” Now for the first time he is called ‘the
Whedon's Commentary on Nehemiah 8:9
THE FEAST OF THE NEW MOON, Nehemiah 8:9-12.The reading of the law made a profound impression on the minds of the people, and they were moved to weeping.
Sermons on Nehemiah 8:9
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A Call to Anguish by David Wilkerson | This sermon is a powerful call to anguish, urging listeners to move beyond concern to a deep sense of inner pain and distress for the state of the church and society. It emphasizes |
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A Booth on the Roof by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the danger of becoming too attached to worldly possessions and material wealth. He warns that the more blessed we are, the more we tend to d |
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A Time to Weep and a Time to Laugh by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of false laughing revivals and the need for genuine spiritual hunger. He emphasizes the importance of following Bible principles and |
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The Basics of Expository Preaching by Alistair Begg | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the foundation of the preaching of the word of God. He acknowledges that sometimes preachers focus so much on |
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Getting Back to the Bible by David Legge | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of getting back to the Bible. The sermon is based on Nehemiah chapter 8, where the people of Israel gather together to hear t |
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Nehemiah #3: Chapter 7-12 by Stephen Kaung | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ. He describes a gathering in a large tent where people from different backgrounds come together to worship a |
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God Is Merciful; Ready to Pardon by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman emphasizes God's mercy and readiness to pardon, drawing from Nehemiah's leadership in Jerusalem. He highlights the importance of faithfulness and reverence for God, a |