Nehemiah 10:28
And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims, and all they that had separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding;
Nehemiah 10:28 · King James Version
Meaning
From this verse in the book of Nehemiah, we see a list of different groups of people who had separated themselves from the people of the lands to follow the law of God. This includes the priests, Levites, porters, singers, Nethinims, and all those who sought to live according to God's commandments. The mention of 'their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding' emphasizes the importance of passing down knowledge and understanding of God's laws to the next generation. It also highlights the inclusive nature of this community, where both men and women, young and old, were actively participating in the pursuit of following God's will. This verse serves as a reminder of the value of education, understanding, and dedication to the teachings of God.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the different categories of people who had separated themselves from the surrounding nations and aligned themselves with the law of God are listed. The priests, Levites, porters, singers, Nethinims, and all others mentioned had deliberately chosen to live according to the teachings and commands of God. This act of separation indicated their commitment to following God's word and living in obedience to Him. Their decision not only affected them but also extended to their families, as their wives, sons, and daughters were also included in this dedication to the law of God. The mention of "everyone having knowledge and understanding" highlights the importance of not only knowing God's laws but also comprehending and applying them in their daily lives. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of intentional separation from the ways of the world and a deliberate commitment to God's commands.
Nehemiah 10:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinim, and all they that had separated themselves from the peoples of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one that had knowledge, and understanding;
World English Bible
The rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinim, and all those who had separated themselves from the peoples of the lands to the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, everyone who had knowledge, and understanding—
Douay-Rheims
And the rest of the people, priests, Levites, porters, and singing men, Nathinites, and all that had separated themselves from the people of the lands to the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the rest of the people, the Priestes, the Leuites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims, and all that were separated from the people of the landes vnto the Lawe of God, their wiues, their sonnes, and their daughters, all that coulde vnderstande.