Nehemiah 2:17
Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.
Nehemiah 2:17 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Nehemiah speaks to the importance of rebuilding and restoring what has been destroyed. In this context, Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burnt down, leaving its inhabitants vulnerable and exposed. The speaker acknowledges the distress they are in and calls upon the people to come together and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem to protect themselves from further harm and humiliation. The act of rebuilding the walls is not just about physical reconstruction but also about reclaiming their dignity and standing as a community. By taking action to repair the walls, they hope to no longer be seen as a reproach or a disgrace but rather as a strong and united people. This verse serves as a rallying cry for unity, resilience, and the power of collective action in times of adversity.
Theological Overview
As we examine this verse from Nehemiah 2:17, we see a call to action from Nehemiah himself. In response to the distress he witnesses in Jerusalem, Nehemiah urges his people to come together and rebuild the walls of the city. This act of rebuilding not only serves a practical purpose in terms of safety and security but also carries a deeper theological significance. The city of Jerusalem, in biblical times, represented the dwelling place of God and the spiritual center of the Jewish people. By rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, the people were not just restoring a physical structure but also renewing their commitment to God and their identity as His chosen people. The phrase "that we be no more a reproach" highlights the importance of upholding their faith and reputation in the eyes of the world. Through this verse, we are reminded of the importance of unity, faith, and perseverance in times of adversity, and the need to actively participate in the work of God's kingdom.
Nehemiah 2:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
Then said I unto them, Ye see the evil case that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.
World English Bible
Then I said to them, “You see the evil case that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come, let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we won’t be disgraced.”
Douay-Rheims
Then I said to them: You know the affliction wherein we are, because Jerusalem is desolate, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire: come, and let us build up the walls of Jerusalem, and let us be no longer a reproach.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Afterward I said vnto them, Ye see the miserie that we are in, how Ierusalem lyeth waste, and the gates thereof are burnt with fire: come and let vs buylde the wall of Ierusalem, that we be no more a reproche.