And the Levites: both Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui of the sons of Henadad, Kadmiel;

NEHEMIAH 10:9KJV
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Nehemiah 10:9 (KJV)

What does Nehemiah 10:9 mean?

Nehemiah 10:9 lists some of the Levites—specifically Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui from the sons of Henadad, and Kadmiel—who were among those making a solemn agreement with God. This verse is part of a longer list naming leaders who represented the people in this covenant.

Nehemiah 10 records a public commitment by the people of Israel to follow God's law after returning from exile. The verse names Levites, a tribe set apart for religious duties, showing their role as spiritual leaders. These specific men are mentioned to highlight their responsibility and participation in renewing Israel’s faithfulness.

The Hebrew behind Nehemiah 10:9

  • לְוִיִּיּם (Leviyyim, "Levites"): This word refers to members of the tribe of Levi, who were given special duties in the temple and religious life of Israel. Their mention here underscores the importance of spiritual leadership in the covenant.
  • יֵשׁוּעַ (Yeshua, "Jeshua"): A common name meaning "the Lord saves." Jeshua is identified as a key Levite leader, and his inclusion shows continuity with earlier generations of faithful leaders.
  • בִּן (ben, "son"): This word marks family relationships, helping to trace lineage and authority among the Levites.
  • בִּנּוּי (Binnui): The name Binnui, linked to the "sons of Henadad," identifies another important Levite family involved in the covenant.
  • קַדְמִיאֵל (Kadmiel): Another Levite leader, his name means "God is ancient" or "God is before," highlighting the tradition of meaningful names in Israelite culture.

Why Nehemiah 10:9 matters

  • This verse helps clarify who the spiritual leaders were during this important moment of recommitment, showing that the Levites took an active, public role.
  • By naming these individuals, the text provides historical accountability and honors those who led the people in renewing their faith.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing that the covenant was not just a general agreement, but one affirmed by specific, responsible leaders on behalf of the community.

Where else these words appear

“Henadad” Hebrew H2582 · used in 4 verses

  • Ezra 3:9 Then stood Jeshua with his sons and his brethren, Kadmiel and his sons, the sons of Judah, together, to set forward the workmen in the house of God: the sons of Henadad, with their sons and their brethren the Levites.
  • Nehemiah 3:18 After him repaired their brethren, Bavai the son of Henadad, the ruler of the half part of Keilah.
  • Nehemiah 3:24 After him repaired Binnui the son of Henadad another piece, from the house of Azariah unto the turning of the wall, even unto the corner.

“Binnui” Hebrew H1131 · used in 7 verses

  • Ezra 8:33 Now on the fourth day was the silver and the gold and the vessels weighed in the house of our God by the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the priest; and with him was Eleazar the son of Phinehas; and with them was Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Binnui, Levites;
  • Ezra 10:38 And Bani, and Binnui, Shimei,
  • Nehemiah 7:15 The children of Binnui, six hundred forty and eight.

“Kadmiel” Hebrew H6934 · used in 8 verses

  • Ezra 2:40 The Levites: the children of Jeshua and Kadmiel, of the children of Hodaviah, seventy and four.
  • Nehemiah 7:43 The Levites: the children of Jeshua, of Kadmiel, and of the children of Hodevah, seventy and four.
  • Nehemiah 9:5 Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah, Hodijah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, Stand up and bless the LORD your God for ever and ever: and blessed be thy glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise.

“Jeshua” Hebrew H3442 · used in 29 verses

  • 1 Chronicles 24:11 The ninth to Jeshua, the tenth to Shecaniah,
  • Ezra 4:3 But Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and the rest of the chief of the fathers of Israel, said unto them, Ye have nothing to do with us to build an house unto our God; but we ourselves together will build unto the LORD God of Israel, as king Cyrus the king of Persia hath commanded us.
  • Nehemiah 8:17 And all the congregation of them that were come again out of the captivity made booths, and sat under the booths: for since the days of Jeshua the son of Nun unto that day had not the children of Israel done so. And there was very great gladness.