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Nehemiah 7:70

And some of the chief of the fathers gave unto the work. The Tirshatha gave to the treasure a thousand drams of gold, fifty basins, five hundred and thirty priests' garments.

Nehemiah 7:70 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, we see the leaders of the people, referred to as "the chief of the fathers," contributing to the work of the temple. The Tirshatha, who was the governor appointed by the king of Persia, sets an example by generously giving a thousand drams of gold, fifty basins, and five hundred and thirty priests' garments for the treasury of the temple. This act signifies the importance of leaders actively participating in and supporting the work of the temple’s reconstruction. By contributing their resources, the leaders not only set an example for the rest of the people but also show their dedication to the worship of God and the restoration of the temple. Their contributions would have been instrumental in funding the necessary materials and resources needed to complete the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem after the exile. This verse highlights the spirit of unity and cooperation among the leaders and the people as they work together towards a common goal of restoring the temple to its former glory.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Ezra, we see a glimpse of the generosity and dedication of the leaders of the Israelite community towards the work of rebuilding the temple. The reference to "The Tirshatha" is believed to be referring to the Persian governor or ruler overseeing the region at that time. His contribution of a thousand drams of gold, fifty basins, and five hundred and thirty priests' garments showcases his support for the restoration of the temple. This act of giving by the chief of the fathers highlights the importance of communal support and collaboration in carrying out God's work. The use of specific items like gold, basins, and priestly garments also symbolizes the importance of worship and service in the religious life of the Israelites. Through their offerings, these leaders express their commitment to the spiritual and material well-being of their community, demonstrating the unity and faithfulness of the people towards the reconstruction of the temple.

Nehemiah 7:70 in other translations

American Standard Version

And some from among the heads of fathers' [houses] gave unto the work. The governor gave to the treasury a thousand darics of gold, fifty basins, five hundred and thirty priests' garments.

World English Bible

Some from among the heads of fathers’ households gave to the work. The governor gave to the treasury one thousand darics of gold, fifty basins, and five hundred thirty priests’ garments.

Douay-Rheims

And some of the heads of the families gave unto the work. Athersatha gave into the treasure a thousand drams of gold, fifty bowls, and five hundred and thirty garments for priests.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And certaine of the chiefe fathers gaue vnto the worke. The Tirshatha gaue to the treasure, a thousand drammes of golde, fiftie basins, fiue hundreth and thirtie Priests garments.