OTnehemiah/introduction

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF NEHEMIAH

Although the current Books of Ezra and Nehemiah were originally one book, and later came to be known as 1 Ezra and 2 Ezra, Jerome was the first man to call the second portion by the name of "Nehemiah." The name of "Ezra" and "Nehemiah" were first printed in an English edition in the Geneva Bible in 1560. Nehemiah means "Yahweh comforts" (HSN5166). Nehemiah was the principal character of the book and probably wrote it. The book recounts the rebuilding of Jerusalem as a fortified city and the establishment of civil authority there. Nehemiah was officially appointed by the Persians to be the Governor of Jerusalem. He came with an army escort at government expense to accomplish God's purpose.

# The Book of Nehemiah is a natural sequel to the Book of Ezra. It focuses much attention upon their efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, despite fierce opposition from unfriendly neighbors. The Persian kings were humane rulers, unlike their predecessors, the Assyrians. The Persian Empire (539-331 B.C.) was established upon a more benign policy of returning displaced ethnic groups to their homelands. Nehemiah was a remarkable spiritual leader who could perform in several practical ways. He was very sad to learn of the terrible condition of Jerusalem, but he believed that God, working through pagan kings, could bring about full restoration. He trusted God completely and would not be intimidated by anyone. The Book of Nehemiah covers about twenty-five years (457-432 B.C.). The prophet Malachi was active during this time.

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