Nehemiah 10:15 (KJV)

What does Nehemiah 10:15 mean?

Nehemiah 10:15 lists three names—Bunni, Azgad, and Bebai—as part of a longer record of individuals. These names belong to leaders or representatives who joined in making a solemn agreement to follow God's law during Nehemiah's time.

This verse is part of a detailed list in Nehemiah 10, where many leaders and families are named as signers of a covenant. Nehemiah, the governor of Jerusalem after the exile, is recording those who publicly committed to keeping the law of Moses and supporting the restored community. The verse itself simply names three of these signatories, showing the collective nature of the commitment.

The Hebrew behind Nehemiah 10:15

• בֻּנִּי (Bunni, transliterated "Bunni") is a personal name. Its meaning is uncertain, but it identifies a specific family or leader involved in the covenant.
• עַזְגָּד (Azgad, transliterated "Azgad") is another personal or family name, often understood as "strong is Gad" or "Gad is mighty," linking the name to strength or a tribal ancestor.
• בֵּבַי (Bebai, transliterated "Bebai") is also a personal or family name, possibly meaning "my coming" or "he comes." Each name marks a distinct group or clan that pledged loyalty to the covenant.

Why Nehemiah 10:15 matters

• Nehemiah 10:15 shows that the covenant was not just an individual act but a group commitment, involving whole families or clans.
• The inclusion of these names highlights the importance of accountability and public witness in the renewed community after exile.
• By listing each signatory, Nehemiah emphasizes the seriousness and inclusiveness of the agreement to follow God's law, connecting this verse to the broader theme of restoration and unity in the book.