Question 1

What does Nehemiah 11:34 mean?

Accepted Answer

Nehemiah 11:34 lists three towns—Hadid, Zeboim, and Neballat—as part of the places where the people of Israel lived after returning from exile. The verse is part of a larger section that records the resettlement of various families and groups in and around Jerusalem. In the context of Nehemiah, this verse is part of a census-like record showing how the returning exiles repopulated the land. Nehemiah, as the leader, is documenting where different groups settled, emphasizing the restoration of community life in Judah after the Babylonian exile. These place names help map out the renewed presence of Israelites in their ancestral homeland.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Nehemiah 11:34

Accepted Answer

חָדִיד (Hadid, transliterated "Hadid"): This is the name of a town north of Jerusalem. Its mention highlights the specific locations being resettled. צְבוֹיִים (Zeboim, transliterated "Tzeboim"): Another town, often associated with a valley in the region of Benjamin. Including it shows the breadth of the resettlement. נְבַלָּט (Neballat, transliterated "Neballat"): A less well-known settlement, possibly near the others. Its inclusion underlines the thoroughness of the record.

Question 3

Why Nehemiah 11:34 matters

Accepted Answer

Nehemiah 11:34 helps clarify that the return from exile was not just about Jerusalem but involved repopulating the surrounding towns, restoring the broader community. The verse shows the careful organization and planning that went into reestablishing Israelite life, reflecting the importance of each group and location. By listing these specific towns, the text connects the returning exiles to their ancestral lands, reinforcing a sense of continuity and belonging after a period of displacement.

Nehemiah 11:34 (KJV)