Jerusalem’s New Settlers
1Now the leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem, and the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of ten to live in the holy city of Jerusalem, while the remaining ninea were to dwell in their own towns.2And the people blessed all the men who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.
3These are the heads of the provinces who settled in Jerusalem. (In the villages of Judah, however, each lived on his own property in their towns—the Israelites, priests, Levites, temple servants,b and descendants of Solomon’s servants—4while some of the descendants of Judah and Benjamin settled in Jerusalem.)
From the descendants of Judah:
Athaiah son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalalel, a descendant of Perez;5and Maaseiah son of Baruch, the son of Col-hozeh, the son of Hazaiah, the son of Adaiah, the son of Joiarib, the son of Zechariah, a descendant of Shelah.c6The descendants of Perez who settled in Jerusalem totaled 468 men of valor.
7From the descendants of Benjamin:
Sallu son of Meshullam, the son of Joed, the son of Pedaiah, the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ithiel, the son of Jeshaiah;8and his followers Gabbai and Sallai—928 men.9Joel son of Zichri was the officer over them, and Judah son of Hassenuah was over the Second District of the city.d
10From the priests:
Jedaiah son of Joiarib;e Jachin;11Seraiah son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the chief official of the house of God;12and their associates who did the work at the temple—822 men;
Adaiah son of Jeroham, the son of Pelaliah, the son of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malchijah;13and his associates, the leaders of families—242 men;
Amashai son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth, the son of Immer;14and his associatesf —128 mighty men of valor. Zabdiel son of Haggedolim was their overseer.
15From the Levites:
Shemaiah son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Bunni;16Shabbethai and Jozabad, two leaders of the Levites, who supervised the work outside the house of God;17Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, who led in thanksgiving and prayer; Bakbukiah, second among his associates; and Abda son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.18The Levites in the holy city totaled 284.
19And the gatekeepers:
Akkub, Talmon, and their associates, who kept watch at the gates—172 men.
Residents Outside Jerusalem
20The rest of the Israelites, with the priests and Levites, were in all the villages of Judah, each on his own inheritance.21The temple servants lived on the hill of Ophel, with Ziha and Gishpa over them.
22Now the overseer of the Levites in Jerusalem was Uzzi son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Mica.g He was one of Asaph’s descendants, who were the singers in charge of the service of the house of God.23For there was a command from the king concerning the singers, an ordinance regulating their daily activities.24Pethahiah son of Meshezabel, a descendant of Zerah son of Judah, was the king’s agenth in every matter concerning the people.
25As for the villages with their fields, some of the people of Judah lived in Kiriath-arba, Dibon, Jekabzeel, and their villages;26in Jeshua, Moladah, and Beth-pelet;27in Hazar-shual; in Beersheba and its villages;28in Ziklag; in Meconah and its villages;29in En-rimmon, Zorah, Jarmuth,30Zanoah, Adullam, and their villages; in Lachish and its fields; and in Azekah and its villages. So they settled from Beersheba all the way to the Valley of Hinnom.
31The descendants of Benjamin from Geba lived in Michmash, Aija, and Bethel with its villages;32in Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah,33Hazor, Ramah, Gittaim,34Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat,35Lod, and Ono; and in the Valley of the Craftsmen.i
36And some divisions of the Levites of Judah settled in Benjamin.
Footnotes:1a Hebrew
nine hands3b Hebrew
Nethinim; also in verse 21
5c Or
of the Shilonite9d Or
was over the Second Quarter of the city, a newer section of Jerusalem; or
was second in command of the city10e Or
Jedaiah; the son of Joiarib;14f Most LXX manuscripts; Hebrew
their associates22gMica is a variant of
Micaiah; see
Nehemiah 12:35.
24h Hebrew
hand35i Hebrew
in Ge-harashim Nehemiah 11 presents the critical period in Jerusalem’s history where leaders and faithful people gather to repopulate the city. It meticulously accounts for the individuals, leaders, and Levites who committed themselves to live in Jerusalem, highlighting the communal spirit and selflessness of those who chose to reside within its walls.
After rebuilding the wall (ch. 6) and renewing the covenant (ch. 10), Nehemiah faced a nearly empty capital. Persian governors expected provincial seats to be populated and productive. Repopulating Jerusalem also honored decades-old prophetic promises (Isaiah 44:26;Jeremiah 30:18).
Verse 23 notes “the king’s command” that guaranteed daily provisions. Persian patronage paralleled Cyrus’s earlier decree funding temple worship (Ezra 6:9-10). This arrangement let worship continue without burdening a still-recovering economy.
– South: Hebron, Zanoah, Adullam—grain and vineyards.
– West: Lachish, Azekah—fortress towns.
– East: Jericho valley—oasis agriculture.
– North: Anathoth, Nob—Benjaminite pasture.
This distribution let Jerusalem draw food and manpower while letting families work inherited land (Numbers 26:52-56).
Studies of Persian-period Jerusalem (mid-5th century BC) estimate a pre-lottery population of about 1,000. Nehemiah’s 10 % influx could have raised it to 5,000–8,000—consistent with the housing remains on the eastern ridge and City of David.
Pethahiah’s post “at the king’s hand” (11:24) exemplifies biblical accountability. Ezra had documented a similar Persian oversight (Ezra 7:21-24). God often works through secular authority to protect and fund spiritual endeavors.
– God values cities as centers for worship, witness, and justice.
– Ordinary people, not just leaders, advance God’s purposes when they step out in faith.
– Administrative details—names, numbers, duties—demonstrate God’s concern for order, stewardship, and historical reliability.
Connections to Additional Scriptures
Matthew 6:33But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. This verse echoes the call to prioritize God's kingdom, as seen in
Nehemiah 11.
Romans 12:4-8This passage about the body of Christ and diverse gifts complements the diverse roles listed in
Nehemiah 11.
1 Peter 2:5You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. This verse connects to the theme of spiritual rebuilding and community.
Teaching Points
The Call to Dwell in JerusalemNehemiah 11:1-2 describes how leaders and a tenth of the people were chosen by lot to live in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of the city as the center of worship and governance.
Voluntary SacrificeVerse 2 highlights the commendation of those who willingly offered to live in Jerusalem, demonstrating a spirit of selflessness and commitment to God's plan.
Diverse ContributionsThe chapter lists various groups, including priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and others, each playing a unique role in the community's functioning and spiritual life (
Nehemiah 11:3-19).
Strategic PlanningThe detailed account of the inhabitants underscores the organized approach to rebuilding and maintaining the city, reflecting God's order and purpose.
Practical Applications
Prioritize God's KingdomLike the Israelites who chose to live in Jerusalem, we are called to prioritize God's kingdom in our lives, even when it requires personal sacrifice.
Embrace Community RolesRecognize and embrace the unique roles and gifts God has given you to contribute to your faith community.
Commit to Spiritual RestorationJust as Jerusalem needed physical and spiritual rebuilding, we should commit to restoring and strengthening our spiritual lives and communities.
Value Strategic PlanningApproach your spiritual journey and community involvement with intentionality and purpose, seeking God's guidance in all endeavors.
People
1.
AthaiahA descendant of Judah, specifically from the line of Perez. He is noted as one of the leaders residing in Jerusalem.
2.
MaaseiahA descendant of Benjamin, son of Baruch, and part of the group of Benjamites living in Jerusalem.
3.
JoelThe son of Zichri, serving as an overseer among the people in Jerusalem.
4.
JudahThe son of Hassenuah, who is described as the second in command over the city.
5.
SalluA descendant of Benjamin, son of Meshullam, and part of the Benjamite residents in Jerusalem.
6.
JedaiahA priest, son of Joiarib, who is among the priests residing in Jerusalem.
7.
JachinAnother priest residing in Jerusalem.
8.
SeraiahThe son of Hilkiah, a chief officer among the priests, and part of the priestly residents in Jerusalem.
9.
ShemaiahA Levite, son of Hasshub, who is among the Levites residing in Jerusalem.
10.
MattaniahA Levite, son of Mica, who is responsible for leading the thanksgiving in prayer.
11.
BakbukiahA Levite who assists Mattaniah in his duties.
12.
ObadiahA Levite, son of Shemaiah, who is among the Levites residing in Jerusalem.
13.
UzziA Levite, son of Bani, who is an overseer of the Levites in Jerusalem.
14.
PethahiahA descendant of Judah, serving as the king's agent in all matters concerning the people.
Places
1.
JerusalemThe central city where a portion of the Israelites, including leaders and some of the people, settled. Jerusalem is significant as the spiritual and political center of Israel.
2.
Kiriath-arba (Hebron)A city in the hill country of Judah, known for its association with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
3.
DibonA town in the territory of Judah, possibly identified with modern-day Dhiban.
4.
JekabzeelA town in the southern part of Judah, near the border with Edom.
5.
JeshuaA location in Judah, not to be confused with the high priest of the same name.
6.
MoladahA town in the Negev region of Judah, mentioned in the allotment of land to the tribe of Simeon.
7.
Beth-peletA town in the southern part of Judah, near the border with Edom.
8.
Hazar-shualA settlement in the Negev, associated with the tribe of Simeon.
9.
BeershebaA significant city in the southern part of Judah, often considered the southernmost boundary of ancient Israel.
10.
ZiklagA town in the Negev, given to David by the Philistine king Achish.
11.
MeconahA location in the southern part of Judah, possibly near Ziklag.
12.
En-rimmonA town in the Negev, possibly a combination of two places, En and Rimmon.
13.
ZorahA town in the Shephelah region of Judah, known as the birthplace of Samson.
14.
JarmuthA city in the Shephelah, part of the territory of Judah.
15.
ZanoahA town in the Shephelah region of Judah.
16.
AdullamA city in the Shephelah, famous for the cave where David hid from King Saul.
17.
LachishA major city in the Shephelah, known for its fortifications and role in various biblical battles.
18.
AzekahA city in the Shephelah, mentioned in the context of battles with the Philistines.
19.
Beth-zurA town in the hill country of Judah, known for its strategic location.
20.
GebaA town in the territory of Benjamin, near the border with Judah.
21.
MichmashA town in the territory of Benjamin, known for its strategic military significance.
22.
BethelA significant city in the territory of Benjamin, associated with the patriarch Jacob.
23.
AnathothA town in the territory of Benjamin, known as the hometown of the prophet Jeremiah.
24.
NobA town in the territory of Benjamin, known for its association with the priests during the time of King Saul.
25.
AnaniahA location in the territory of Benjamin, possibly near Nob.
26.
HazorA town in the territory of Benjamin, not to be confused with the more famous Hazor in the north.
27.
RamahA town in the territory of Benjamin, known for its association with the prophet Samuel.
28.
GittaimA town in the territory of Benjamin, mentioned in the context of the return from exile.
29.
HadidA town in the territory of Benjamin, mentioned in the context of the return from exile.
30.
ZeboimA location in the territory of Benjamin, possibly near Hadid.
31.
NeballatA town in the territory of Benjamin, mentioned in the context of the return from exile.
32.
LodA town in the territory of Benjamin, known in the New Testament as Lydda.
33.
OnoA town in the territory of Benjamin, mentioned in the context of the return from exile.
34.
Valley of the CraftsmenA region associated with the towns of Lod and Ono, known for its artisans.
Events
1.
Casting Lots for ResidentsThe leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem, and the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the remaining nine stayed in their own towns (
Nehemiah 11:1).
2.
Voluntary ResidentsSome people willingly offered to live in Jerusalem, and they were commended by the people for their willingness (
Nehemiah 11:2).
3.
List of Jerusalem's InhabitantsThe chapter provides a detailed list of the heads of families and their descendants who lived in Jerusalem, including the descendants of Judah and Benjamin (
Nehemiah 11:3-9).
4.
Priests and Levites in JerusalemThe text lists the priests and Levites who resided in Jerusalem, highlighting their roles and responsibilities in the temple service (
Nehemiah 11:10-18).
5.
Gatekeepers and Temple ServantsThe gatekeepers and temple servants are mentioned, emphasizing their duties in maintaining the security and function of the temple (
Nehemiah 11:19-21).
6.
Other Israelites in JudahThe chapter also notes that other Israelites, priests, and Levites lived in the towns of Judah, each on their own property (
Nehemiah 11:20).
7.
Overseers of the LevitesThe text identifies the overseers of the Levites in Jerusalem, who were responsible for the work of the house of God (
Nehemiah 11:22-24).
8.
Villages and FieldsThe chapter concludes with a description of the villages and fields where the people of Judah and Benjamin lived, outside of Jerusalem (
Nehemiah 11:25-36).
Lessons from Nehemiah 11
1. Embrace the Call to Serve
InNehemiah 11, we see a group of people willingly choosing to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, despite the challenges. This teaches us the importance of embracing our call to serve where God places us. As it is written, "And the people blessed all the men who volunteered to live in Jerusalem" (Nehemiah 11:2). When we step up to serve, we not only fulfill our purpose but also inspire others to do the same.
2. Recognize the Power of Community
The chapter highlights the significance of community, as various families and tribes come together to repopulate Jerusalem. This reminds us that we are stronger together. "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor" (Ecclesiastes 4:9). In unity, we find strength and encouragement to accomplish great things for God's kingdom.
3. Value Every Role
Nehemiah 11 lists various roles, from priests to gatekeepers, showing that every position is vital in God's plan. "For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function" (Romans 12:4). Whether you're leading or supporting, your contribution is essential and valued in the eyes of God.
4. Prioritize Worship
The chapter emphasizes the presence of priests and Levites, underscoring the importance of worship in our lives. "Worship the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs" (Psalm 100:2). Prioritizing worship keeps our hearts aligned with God's will and fills us with His joy and peace.
5. Be Willing to Sacrifice
The volunteers inNehemiah 11 left their homes for the sake of God's city, teaching us the value of sacrifice. "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13). Sacrificing our comfort for the greater good reflects Christ's love and brings us closer to His heart.
6. Trust in God's Provision
Despite the challenges of rebuilding Jerusalem, the people trusted in God's provision. "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). When we trust God, we can face any obstacle with confidence, knowing He will provide for our needs.
7. Lead by Example
Nehemiah and the leaders set an example by living in Jerusalem, encouraging others to follow. "In everything, set them an example by doing what is good" (Titus 2:7). Leading by example is a powerful way to inspire and motivate those around us to pursue God's purposes.
8. Celebrate Diversity
The chapter lists people from various backgrounds, highlighting the beauty of diversity in God's family. "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). Embracing diversity enriches our community and reflects the unity found in Christ.
9. Stay Committed to God's Mission
The people inNehemiah 11 were committed to rebuilding and restoring Jerusalem, demonstrating unwavering dedication to God's mission. "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58). Staying committed to God's mission ensures that we remain focused on what truly matters.
10. Rejoice in God's Faithfulness
Finally,Nehemiah 11 is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. "The LORD is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made" (Psalm 145:13). Rejoicing in God's faithfulness strengthens our faith and reminds us that He is always at work, even when we cannot see it.
Topics
1.
The Population of JerusalemNehemiah 11 begins with the leaders of the people settling in Jerusalem, while the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of every ten to live in the holy city. This reflects the importance of repopulating Jerusalem, which was central to the Jewish identity and worship. The Hebrew term for "casting lots" (גּוֹרָל, goral) indicates a method of decision-making that sought divine guidance.
2.
Voluntary ResidentsSome people willingly chose to live in Jerusalem, and they were commended for their decision. This voluntary act of faith and commitment to the community highlights the spiritual significance of residing in the city. The Hebrew root for "willingly" (נָדַב, nadav) suggests a freewill offering or voluntary service.
3.
The Leaders in JerusalemThe chapter lists the leaders who settled in Jerusalem, including descendants of Judah and Benjamin. This enumeration underscores the restoration of tribal identities and leadership roles within the city, which were crucial for maintaining order and governance.
4.
Priests and LevitesSpecific priests and Levites are named, emphasizing their roles in temple service and worship. The presence of these religious leaders was vital for the spiritual life of the community, as they facilitated the people's relationship with God.
5.
Gatekeepers and Temple ServantsThe chapter also mentions gatekeepers and temple servants, who were responsible for the security and maintenance of the temple. Their roles were essential for the proper functioning of temple activities and the protection of sacred spaces.
6.
The Villages of Judah and BenjaminNehemiah 11 concludes with a description of the surrounding villages where other Israelites lived. This distribution of the population reflects the broader restoration of the land and the re-establishment of community life beyond Jerusalem. The Hebrew term for "villages" (חָצֵר, chatser) can also mean "settlements" or "courtyards," indicating areas of habitation and community.
Themes
1.
Repopulation of JerusalemNehemiah 11 focuses on the repopulation of Jerusalem, highlighting the importance of restoring the city as a center of worship and governance. The chapter begins with the leaders settling in Jerusalem and a tenth of the people being chosen by lot to live there, emphasizing the communal responsibility and divine guidance in rebuilding the city. The Hebrew term "גורל" (goral), meaning "lot," underscores the belief in God's sovereignty in decision-making.
2.
Voluntary Service and SacrificeThe chapter acknowledges those who willingly chose to live in Jerusalem, as seen in
Nehemiah 11:2: "And the people blessed all the men who volunteered to live in Jerusalem." This theme highlights the spirit of self-sacrifice and dedication to God's work, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "נדבה" (nedavah), meaning "freewill offering" or "voluntary service."
3.
Community and LeadershipNehemiah 11 lists various leaders and families who settled in Jerusalem, illustrating the theme of community organization and leadership. The detailed genealogies and roles emphasize the structured approach to rebuilding the community, with leaders taking responsibility for different aspects of city life.
4.
Diversity of Roles and ContributionsThe chapter outlines the diverse roles and contributions of the inhabitants, including priests, Levites, gatekeepers, and temple servants. This diversity reflects the Hebrew understanding of "עבודה" (avodah), meaning "service" or "work," highlighting that every role is vital in the functioning of the community and worship.
5.
Faithfulness to Heritage and IdentityBy listing the genealogies and tribal affiliations,
Nehemiah 11 underscores the importance of maintaining Israel's heritage and identity. The emphasis on lineage and tribal connections reflects the Hebrew concept of "זכר" (zakar), meaning "to remember," which is crucial for preserving the covenant relationship with God.
6.
Divine Favor and BlessingThe chapter implicitly conveys the theme of divine favor and blessing upon those who participate in the restoration of Jerusalem. The successful repopulation and organization of the city are seen as a result of God's providence and blessing, aligning with the Hebrew idea of "ברכה" (berakhah), meaning "blessing."
Prayer Points
Pray for a heart willing to prioritize God's kingdom, even when it requires personal sacrifice.
Ask God to reveal and strengthen your unique role within your faith community.
Seek God's guidance in strategic planning for personal and communal spiritual growth.
Pray for unity and cooperation within your community, reflecting the diverse yet unified efforts seen inNehemiah 11.
Answering Tough Questions
1.
Nehemiah 11:1 – How can we verify historically or archaeologically that exactly one-tenth of the people were chosen by lot to live in Jerusalem?2.Nehemiah 11:3–4 – Is there any concrete evidence to confirm the listed families and their numbers who supposedly settled in the city?
3.Nehemiah 11:7–9 – Are the genealogies here consistent with other biblical genealogies, or do apparent discrepancies suggest later additions or errors?
4.Nehemiah 11:21 – What archaeological proof exists for the Nethinim and their service near the Temple, as described in this passage?
5.Nehemiah 11:25–36 – Do the recorded locations and populations in Judah and Benjamin align with known historical or archaeological records of the period?
Bible Study Discussion Questions
1. What can we learn about community from the process of populating Jerusalem?
2. How does the act of casting lots reflect the trust in God's sovereignty?
3. What does the willingness of some to move to Jerusalem teach us about sacrifice?
4. How do you think the leaders chosen to live in Jerusalem felt about their new responsibility?
5. How can we apply the principles of collective responsibility in our modern communities?
6. What similarities can you find between the duties of the Levites and the role of spiritual leaders today?
7. How does Nehemiah 11 relate to the concept of obedience to God's calling?
8. How might the sacrifices made by the people in Nehemiah 11 inspire you in your life today?
9. How can we apply the selflessness shown by those who relocated to our personal lives?
10. What does the careful cataloging of people's names and roles tell us about the importance of every individual in God's plan?
11. How does the chapter highlight the significance of both urban and rural populations in fulfilling God's purpose?
12. How does the faith of the people of Jerusalem manifest in their willingness to change their place of living?
13. What could have been the challenges faced by those who relocated to Jerusalem, and how might they have overcome them with faith?
14. In what ways does Nehemiah 11 challenge our modern understanding of sacrifice and comfort?
15. How might the principles from this chapter guide our decisions when facing significant life changes?
16. How does the community spirit reflected in Nehemiah 11 compare to our societal values today?
17. What role does divine providence play in the repopulation of Jerusalem, and how can we see God's hand in our communities today?
18. How can this chapter inspire us to be more active and sacrificial members of our churches or communities?
19. What does it mean for us today to be "chosen" like those who were selected to live in Jerusalem?
20. In your personal life, how have you or can you demonstrate the same type of commitment shown by the people of Nehemiah 11?
Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions
