Nehemiah 5:14
Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
وَعُيِّنْتُ مِنْ ذَلِكَ اليَوْمِ وَالِيًا عَلَى أرْضِ يَهُوذَا، مِنَ السَّنَةِ العِشْرِينَ حَتَّى الثَّانِيَةِ وَالثَّلَاثِينَ مِنْ حُكْمِ المَلِكِ أرْتَحْشَسْتَا، أيْ اثْنَتَيْ عَشْرَةَ سَنَةً. وَلَمْ نَكُنْ أنَا وَأقَارِبِي نَأكُلُ مِنَ الطَّعَامِ المُخَصَّصِ لِلوَالِي.
What Does This Mean?
Nehemiah explains that during his time as governor of Judah, which lasted twelve years, he and his family did not take advantage of the benefits other governors typically received. This shows Nehemiah's integrity and selflessness.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your teacher said they wouldn't eat the extra cookies meant for teachers. Nehemiah did something like that, showing he cared more about others than about himself.
Historical Background
Nehemiah wrote this part of the Bible while he was in charge of rebuilding Jerusalem. The text was written around 445-432 BCE, and it reflects the life of the Jewish community returning from exile in Babylon.
Living It Out Today
A modern scenario could be a CEO refusing bonuses while ensuring employees get their fair share. This mirrors Nehemiah's selflessness and integrity in leadership.
Topics
leadershipintegrityserviceselflessnessfaithfulnesscommunity
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't Nehemiah take the benefits he was entitled to?
Nehemiah chose not to take the benefits to set an example of integrity and to ensure the resources benefited the community he was leading.
How long did Nehemiah serve as governor?
Nehemiah served as governor for twelve years, from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes' reign.
What does this verse teach about leadership?
This verse teaches that true leadership involves putting the needs of others before personal gain, demonstrating honesty and integrity.
How can we apply Nehemiah's example in our daily lives?
We can apply Nehemiah's example by being honest, showing selflessness in our roles, and making choices that benefit others, not just ourselves.