Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that is, twelve years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor.
From the time I was appointed as governor of Judah, from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of King Artaxerxes' reign, which was twelve years, neither I nor my associates took the food allowance that governors were entitled to receive.
Nehemiah is explaining that during his entire twelve-year term as governor, he chose not to take the salary and benefits that came with his position.
📚 Historical Context
Nehemiah was a Jewish leader appointed as governor of Judah by the Persian King Artaxerxes around 445 BC, during a time when the Jewish people were rebuilding Jerusalem after their exile. For twelve years, he refused to accept the customary provisions or "bread of the governor" that officials typically took from the people, which helped ease the economic burdens on the struggling community. This act of self-denial was set against a backdrop of social reforms and resistance to oppression, showcasing his commitment to fair leadership.
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