Nehemiah 5:15

Arabic SVD 1865 Version (Smith and Van Dyke)

ولكن الولاة الاولون الذين قبلي ثقلوا على الشعب واخذوا منهم خبزا وخمرا فضلا عن اربعين شاقلا من الفضة حتى ان غلمانهم تسلطوا على الشعب. واما انا فلم افعل هكذا من اجل خوف الله.

What Does This Mean?

Nehemiah explains that unlike the governors before him, he didn't take extra things from the people, such as food and money. He didn't let his servants control the people either. He did this because he feared God and wanted to serve the people well.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're the captain of a soccer team. Before you, the other captains took snacks from the team and asked for extra money. But you decided to be different. You didn't take anything extra because you knew it wasn't right.

Historical Background

Nehemiah wrote this during the time when he was the governor of Judah, after the Jews returned from exile in Babylon. He was leading the people in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. This verse shows how Nehemiah contrasted his leadership style with that of his predecessors.

Living It Out Today

In a modern context, this verse can remind leaders in schools, workplaces, or communities to avoid exploiting their positions for personal gain. Instead, they should serve their communities with integrity, guided by ethical principles.

Topics

• leadership
• integrity
• service
• ethics
• fear of God
• governance

Related Verses

• 1 Samuel 8:3
• Ephesians 6:9
• 1 Peter 5:3
• Exodus 18:21
• Luke 22:25

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Nehemiah refrain from taking extra things?

Nehemiah refrained from taking extra things from the people because he feared God and wanted to serve the people well without exploiting his position.

How did Nehemiah's approach differ from previous governors?

Nehemiah did not take extra food, wine, or money from the people and did not allow his servants to rule over them, unlike his predecessors who did take these things.

What can we learn from Nehemiah's example as a leader?

Nehemiah's example teaches us that leaders should serve with integrity, avoiding exploitation and focusing on ethical behavior.

How does fearing God influence Nehemiah's actions?

Nehemiah's fear of God influenced his actions by guiding him to act ethically and justly, avoiding the corrupt practices of his predecessors.