Nehemiah 6

1 upon the gates. Heb., “in the gates” (R.V.). 2 the villages. R.V. reads, “in one of the villages.”

Ono, in the Plain of Sharon, north of Lydda. 5 an open letter. Letters sent by Orientals to superiors, and even to equals, are carefully sealed, and enclosed in silken bags. By sending the letter open, contrary to the universal practice, Sanballat doubtless intended both to insult Nehemiah and to excite the fears and discontent of the people by making the accusations generally known.

9 made us afraid. Rather, as R.V., “would have made us afraid.”

10 within the Temple. The environs of the Temple were secured by walls and gates, while the gates of the city were not yet set up.

11. Should such a man as I flee? In such circumstances, even the preservation of life formed but a subordinate consideration, compared with the importance of setting an example of courageous confidence in God. It is worthy of notice that Nehemiah, whilst he took every reasonable precaution, never allowed fear to hinder his work.

13 and sin. Not only by culpable timidity and distrust, but by seeking refuge in the Holy Place, which was forbidden to all but priests.

14 the rest of the prophets. These pretended prophets having sold their services to the enemies of religion, Nehemiah prays for their confusion and disappointment.

15 fifty and two days. From the third day of Ab, the fifth month (July, August), to the twenty-fifth of Elul, the sixth (August, September). The solemn assembly of the people was held six days later, on the first of Tishri (viii. 3).

17 the nobles. The part which Nehemiah had taken in the defence of the poor (ch. v.) would arouse the enmity of the rich.

18 because he was the son-in-law of Shechaniah. The serious mischiefs resulting from these connexions with the enemies of their country, show that the strong measures which Ezra adopted to prevent them (Ezra x.) were really necessary.