Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.

NEHEMIAH 8:10KJV
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Nehemiah 8:10 (KJV)

What does Nehemiah 8:10 mean?

Nehemiah 8:10 tells the people to celebrate with good food and drink, to share with those who have nothing, and not to be sad, because the day is holy and the joy that comes from the LORD gives strength. The verse encourages a spirit of generosity, gladness, and reliance on God’s joy during a special, set-apart day.

Nehemiah, speaking to the people gathered in Jerusalem after hearing the Law read aloud, urges them not to mourn but to rejoice and care for others. The setting is a public reading of Scripture after the return from exile, where the people are moved to tears. Nehemiah redirects their emotions, emphasizing that God’s joy is a source of strength and that holiness is marked by both celebration and compassion.

The Hebrew behind Nehemiah 8:10

  • "fat" (מַשְׁמַנִּים, mashmannim): This word refers to rich or choice foods, highlighting that the people are encouraged to enjoy the best of what they have, not just basic sustenance.
  • "sweet" (מַמְתַּקִּים, mamtaqqim): This word points to sweet drinks, likely something special and festive, underlining the celebratory nature of the day.
  • "joy" (חֶדְוָה, chedvah): This word means joy or gladness, and here it is described as coming from the LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH), making it clear that the strength offered is rooted in God’s own joy, not just human happiness.
  • "strength" (מָעוֹז, maoz): This word means a place or means of safety, protection, or stronghold. The verse is saying that God’s joy is not just uplifting, but actually provides real strength and security.

Why Nehemiah 8:10 matters

  • Nehemiah 8:10 clarifies that holiness and joy are not opposites; a day set apart for God can be marked by celebration and sharing, not just solemnity.
  • The verse shifts the focus from mourning over past failures to embracing God’s present grace and strength, helping the people move forward together.
  • The instruction to share with those "for whom nothing is prepared" highlights the importance of community and generosity as part of true worship.

Where else these words appear

“sweet” Hebrew H4477 · used in 2 verses

  • Song of Solomon 5:16 His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem.

“joy” Hebrew H2304 · used in 2 verses

  • 1 Chronicles 16:27 Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place.

“fat” Hebrew H4924 · used in 7 verses

  • Genesis 27:28 Therefore God give thee of the dew of heaven, and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine:
  • Psalms 78:31 The wrath of God came upon them, and slew the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen men of Israel.
  • Isaiah 17:4 And in that day it shall come to pass, that the glory of Jacob shall be made thin, and the fatness of his flesh shall wax lean.

“portions” Hebrew H4490 · used in 14 verses

  • Exodus 29:26 And thou shalt take the breast of the ram of Aaron's consecration, and wave it for a wave offering before the LORD: and it shall be thy part.
  • 1 Samuel 1:5 But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb.
  • Esther 2:9 And the maiden pleased him, and she obtained kindness of him; and he speedily gave her her things for purification, with such things as belonged to her, and seven maidens, which were meet to be given her, out of the king's house: and he preferred her and her maids unto the best place of the house of the women.