Also the firstborn of our sons, and of our cattle, as it is written in the law, and the firstlings of our herds and of our flocks, to bring to the house of our God, unto the priests that minister in the house of our God:
NEHEMIAH 10:36KJVWhat does Nehemiah 10:36 mean?
Nehemiah 10:36 describes the commitment of the people to bring the firstborn of their sons and animals, as well as the first offspring of their herds and flocks, to the house of God for the priests, following what is written in the law. This verse shows their promise to honor God by giving the first and best of what they have, as instructed in the law of Moses.
In this passage, the leaders and people of Israel are making a public agreement to keep the commands found in the law (Torah) after returning from exile. The verse specifically refers to the practice of dedicating the firstborn (both human and animal) to God, which was a sign of trust and obedience. The priests, who served in the temple, were responsible for receiving these offerings on behalf of God.
The Hebrew behind Nehemiah 10:36
- בְּכוֹר (bekhor, H1060) — "firstborn": This word refers to the firstborn son or animal, which in Israelite law was considered especially significant and belonged to God.
- תּוֹרָה (torah, H8451) — "law": This term means "instruction" or "law," pointing to the commands given through Moses, which the people are recommitting to follow.
- בְּכֹרוֹת (bekhorot, H1062) — "firstlings": This word refers to the first offspring of herds and flocks, emphasizing that not just people but also animals were to be dedicated.
- בֵּית (beit, H1004) — "house": This means "house," here referring to the temple, the central place of worship and sacrifice.
Why Nehemiah 10:36 matters
- Nehemiah 10:36 clarifies that the people's renewed commitment included both their families and their possessions, showing a holistic dedication to God.
- The verse connects the community’s actions directly to the written law, underlining that their promises were not new inventions but a return to ancient commands.
- By mentioning the priests and the house of God, the verse highlights the restored structure of worship and leadership after the exile, showing the rebuilding of both physical and spiritual life in Jerusalem.