And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.
When evening came on the day before the Sabbath and the gates of Jerusalem were growing dark, I ordered the gates to be closed. I commanded that they should not be opened again until after the Sabbath was over. I stationed some of my own servants at the gates to make sure no goods or merchandise would be brought into the city on the Sabbath day.
Nehemiah is taking strong action to protect the Sabbath by closing Jerusalem's gates and posting guards to prevent any business or trade from happening on God's holy day.
📚 Historical Context
Nehemiah had returned from a trip to find that the people of Jerusalem were breaking the Sabbath by conducting business and trade. This violated God's commandment to keep the Sabbath holy as a day of rest. As governor, Nehemiah took decisive action to enforce proper Sabbath observance and protect the spiritual integrity of the restored Jewish community.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.