Nehemiah 13:23

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

وفي تِلكَ الأَيَّامِ أَيضًا، رَأَيتُ يَهودًا قد تَزَوَّجوا نِساءً أَشْدودِيَّاتٍ وعَمُّونِيَّاتٍ ومُوآبِيَّات،

What Does This Mean?

Nehemiah observes that some Jews have married women from Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab. Nehemiah is speaking and the key message is the concern about intermarriage with people from other nations.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a special group of friends, and your friend Nehemiah notices some of your friends are playing with kids from other groups. Nehemiah thinks this might cause problems and wants to make sure everyone stays in their own group.

Historical Background

Nehemiah wrote this part of the book in the 5th century BCE. He was a leader in Jerusalem, working to rebuild the city and its walls after the Babylonian exile. The cultural setting was one of rebuilding and trying to maintain Jewish traditions.

Living It Out Today

Consider a scenario where a company tries to maintain its culture but notices employees are collaborating closely with competitors. This might lead to a loss of identity and values. The verse reminds us of the importance of maintaining our core values and community.

Topics

• identity
• marriage
• community
• traditions
• leadership
• restoration

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 7:3
• Ezra 9:12
• Ezra 10:10
• Malachi 2:11
• 1 Corinthians 7:39

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was intermarriage a concern?

Intermarriage was a concern because it could lead to the loss of Jewish identity and values. Nehemiah wanted to maintain the purity of the community.

What was Nehemiah's role at the time?

Nehemiah was a leader and governor of Jerusalem, responsible for rebuilding the city and its walls after the Babylonian exile.

How does this relate to modern community issues?

This verse can be related to modern issues where communities try to maintain their cultural identity and values in the face of outside influences.

What was the outcome of Nehemiah's concern?

Nehemiah addressed the issue and worked to separate the Jews who had married foreigners, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Jewish traditions.