Nehemiah 3:2 (KJV)

What does Nehemiah 3:2 mean?

Nehemiah 3:2 records that after one group finished their section of rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall, the men from Jericho took up the work next to them, and beside them, Zaccur the son of Imri built his section. The verse highlights the organized, cooperative effort of different groups and individuals in restoring the wall.

This verse is part of a detailed list in Nehemiah showing who rebuilt each part of Jerusalem’s wall after the exile. The book describes Nehemiah’s leadership as he organizes the people for this massive project. Here, the focus is on teamwork, with people from Jericho and a man named Zaccur, son of Imri, each taking responsibility for a section.

The Hebrew behind Nehemiah 3:2

• "Men" (אֲנָשִׁים, ʾanashim): This word simply means "men" or "people," emphasizing that it was not just leaders but ordinary people from Jericho who participated in the building.
• "Builded" (בָּנָה, banah): This verb means "to build" or "to construct." The repetition in the verse underlines the active participation of each group in the physical work of rebuilding.
• "Jericho" (יְרִיחוֹ, Yericho): The mention of Jericho shows that people from outside Jerusalem itself came to help, highlighting the broader community’s involvement.
• "Zaccur" (זַכּוּר, Zakkur): Naming Zaccur, son of Imri, gives a personal touch, showing that both groups and specific individuals were recognized for their contributions.

Why Nehemiah 3:2 matters

• Nehemiah 3:2 shows that the rebuilding was a shared effort, with people from different places and backgrounds working side by side, not just locals or elites.
• The verse helps the reader see the careful organization and record-keeping in Nehemiah’s leadership, emphasizing accountability and honor for each contributor.
• By naming both groups and individuals, the passage highlights the importance of every person’s role in a community project, no matter how big or small.