Nehemiah 2:11-20
Summary for Neh 2:12-15: 2:12-15 a Nehemiah needed firsthand knowledge of the condition of the walls to present credible plans for their reconstruction and to rally the labor he would need. He conducted his survey secretly after dark to avoid detection by his opponents. His inspection covered only the southern part of the city.2:13 b Jackal’s Well might have been En-rogel, a water source located about 400 yards [365 meters] south of the city, or the pool of Siloam, which is filled by water flowing through Hezekiah’s meandering, serpentine tunnel.
• The Dung Gate (called the “Gate of Broken Pots” in Jer 19:2 c) at the southern end of the western wall (see Neh 3:13 d) led to the Hinnom Valley, where inhabitants of the city threw their garbage.
2:14 e The King’s Pool was either the pool of Siloam or another pool southeast of the city; both were created from the overflow of the Gihon Spring (see 2 Kgs 20:20 f).
Summary for Neh 2:16-17: 2:16-17 g Nehemiah kept his inspection and rebuilding plans secret from both the Persian and Jewish leaders to prevent opposition from being organized. But now Nehemiah was effectively positioned to lead the rebuilding effort.
• what trouble we are in: The broken walls brought disgrace on the city and reflected negatively on God; Jerusalem certainly did not look like the “city of the great King” (Ps 48:2 h).
2:18 i Evidence of God’s clear involvement (2:8 j) is a strong motivator in any project. Nehemiah had God’s guidance, the king’s permission, the necessary letters to procure lumber, and a plan to lead the project. So the people enthusiastically agreed to begin working.
2:19 k Nehemiah’s enemies immediately scoffed and tried to stop progress. These opponents were dangerous because of their potential ability to discourage the people and undermine Nehemiah’s credibility.
• Are you rebelling against the king? This serious charge could bring death (see also Ezra 4:6-23 l).
2:20 m The title God of heaven communicated to Persian audiences that Israel’s true God was not a minor local deity. Nehemiah remained focused on obeying his sovereign by building the walls.
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