Nehemiah 8:9

Arabic SAB (الكتاب الشريف)

فَبَكَى كُلُّ الشَّعْبِ لَمَّا سَمِعُوا كَلَامَ التَّوْرَاةِ، فَقَالَ لَهُمْ الْوَالِي نَحَمْيَا وَالْحَبْرُ الْفَقِيهُ عَزْرَا وَاللَّاوِيُّونَ الَّذِينَ كَانُوا يُفَهِّمُونَ الشَّعْبَ: ”هَذَا الْيَوْمُ مُقَدَّسٌ لِلْمَوْلَى إِلَهِكُمْ، فَلَا تَنُوحُوا وَلَا تَبْكُوا!“

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites tell the people that the day is holy and they should not be sad. The people were crying because they heard the words of the law, but the leaders wanted them to understand the importance of the day.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're at a big, important party, and you start to feel sad because you're thinking about something serious. Your parents would remind you that it's a special day and you should be happy. That's what Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites did for the people—they reminded them it was a special day to celebrate God.

Historical Background

This verse is from the Book of Nehemiah, written around 445 B.C. It describes a moment when the people of Israel were gathered to hear the reading of the law after returning from exile. The leaders, Nehemiah and Ezra, were trying to lift the spirits of the people who were moved to tears by the reading.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us that during important spiritual events or milestones, we should focus on the positive aspects and remember the significance of the occasion, even if we are moved by the gravity of the situation. For example, during a church service, we might feel sadness but should remember to celebrate the holiness of the moment.

Topics

• holiness
• leadership
• mourning
• celebration
• teaching
• laws

Related Verses

• Exodus 19:10-11
• 2 Chronicles 30:21
• Acts 2:38-42
• Hebrews 10:24-25
• Psalm 118:24

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were the people crying when they heard the law?

The people were likely moved by the solemnity and realization of their responsibilities under God's law, leading to an emotional response.

What does 'Tirshatha' mean in this context?

'Tirshatha' was a Persian title for a governor or ruler, indicating Nehemiah's official position of authority over the returned exiles.

What is the significance of the day being 'holy'?

The day being 'holy' means it was set apart for God, highlighting the importance of the occasion and the focus on spiritual matters.

How can this verse apply to our daily lives?

This verse teaches us to recognize and celebrate the importance of spiritual moments, even when they evoke deep emotions, by focusing on their holiness and significance.