One verse. Three ways to understand.
In the month of Nisan, during the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes' reign, wine was served before him. I picked up the wine and gave it to the king. I had never been sad in front of him before.
Nehemiah is serving wine to the Persian king as part of his job, and he mentions that he had never shown sadness in the king's presence before this moment.
These are AI-assisted adaptations, not separate Bible editions. Compare them with the KJV source and read our methodology. How these readings are made →
Read the KJV source
King James Version · EnglishAnd it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence.Ask the AI Assistant
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📚 Historical Context
In the 5th century BC, Nehemiah served as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I of Persia, a trusted position that gave him direct access to the king and required him to ensure the ruler's safety during meals. This verse sets the stage for Nehemiah's bold request to return to Jerusalem, as he had recently learned of the city's broken walls and had been concealing his sadness to maintain his professional demeanor. The timing in the month of Nisan, which was the first month of the Jewish religious calendar, highlights a period of renewal and preparation for God's work.