Nehemiah 10:34

Arabic SVD 1865 Version (Smith and Van Dyke)

والقينا قرعا على قربان الحطب بين الكهنة واللاويين والشعب لادخاله الى بيت الهنا حسب بيوت آبائنا في اوقات معينة سنة فسنة لاجل احراقه على مذبح الرب الهنا كما هو مكتوب في الشريعة

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes how the people of Israel decided by drawing lots who would be responsible for bringing wood to the temple for the altar. The wood was to be brought at specific times each year, following the instructions given in the law.

Explained for Children

Imagine you and your friends decide who gets to bring snacks for the class party by picking numbers from a hat. In the same way, the people in this story used a method called 'drawing lots' to choose who would bring wood for the altar at the temple. This was important because they needed wood to keep the fire burning at the temple, just like you need wood for a campfire.

Historical Background

Nehemiah 10:34 is part of the book of Nehemiah, written around 445 BC. The book records the experiences of Nehemiah, a Jewish governor, as he rebuilds Jerusalem and its temple. This verse reflects the post-exilic period when the Jews returned from Babylon to Jerusalem and reinstated their religious practices.

Living It Out Today

Today, we can apply the idea of shared responsibility from this verse by organizing tasks among our family or community. For example, a group of neighbors could take turns maintaining a community garden, ensuring everyone contributes and benefits.

Topics

• responsibility
• worship
• community
• service
• religious practices
• obedience

Related Verses

• Leviticus 6:12-13
• 1 Chronicles 23:28-29
• Ezekiel 44:15-16
• Matthew 23:18
• Hebrews 10:1-2

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'drawing lots' mean?

Drawing lots is a method of making decisions by chance, often using small objects like stones or sticks. In this case, it was used to fairly distribute the responsibility of bringing wood to the temple.

Why was bringing wood to the temple important?

The wood was essential for keeping the altar fire burning, which was a vital part of the religious rituals and offerings in the temple according to the law.

How often were the people expected to bring wood?

The people were to bring wood at times appointed year by year, indicating a regular and scheduled responsibility, likely tied to specific religious festivals or times.

What does this teach about community involvement?

This verse teaches that community involvement and shared responsibility are important for maintaining religious practices and ensuring that all tasks are completed.