Nehemiah 2:20
New International Version
I answered them by saying, “The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.”

New Living Translation
I replied, “The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall. But you have no share, legal right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.”

English Standard Version
Then I replied to them, “The God of heaven will make us prosper, and we his servants will arise and build, but you have no portion or right or claim in Jerusalem.”

Berean Standard Bible
So I answered them and said, “The God of heaven is the One who will grant us success. We, His servants, will start rebuilding, but you have no portion, right, or claim in Jerusalem.”

King James Bible
Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.

New King James Version
So I answered them, and said to them, “The God of heaven Himself will prosper us; therefore we His servants will arise and build, but you have no heritage or right or memorial in Jerusalem.”

New American Standard Bible
So I answered them and said to them, “The God of heaven will make us successful; therefore we His servants will arise and build, but you have no part, right, or memorial in Jerusalem.”

NASB 1995
So I answered them and said to them, “The God of heaven will give us success; therefore we His servants will arise and build, but you have no portion, right or memorial in Jerusalem.”

NASB 1977
So I answered them and said to them, “The God of heaven will give us success; therefore we His servants will arise and build, but you have no portion, right, or memorial in Jerusalem.”

Legacy Standard Bible
So I responded to them with a word and said to them, “The God of heaven will give us success; therefore we His slaves will arise and build, but you have no portion, right, or remembrance in Jerusalem.”

Amplified Bible
I answered them, “The God of heaven [has appointed us for His purpose and] will give us success; therefore we His servants will arise and build, but you have no portion, right, or memorial in Jerusalem.”

Christian Standard Bible
I gave them this reply, “The God of the heavens is the one who will grant us success. We, his servants, will start building, but you have no share, right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.”

Holman Christian Standard Bible
I gave them this reply, “The God of heaven is the One who will grant us success. We, His servants, will start building, but you have no share, right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.”

American Standard Version
Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.

Contemporary English Version
I answered, "We are servants of the God who rules from heaven, and he will make our work succeed. So we will start rebuilding Jerusalem, but you have no right to any of its property, because you have had no part in its history."

English Revised Version
Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial in Jerusalem.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
"The God of heaven will give us success," I answered them. "We, his servants, are going to rebuild. You have no property or claim or historic right in Jerusalem."

Good News Translation
I answered, "The God of Heaven will give us success. We are his servants, and we are going to start building. But you have no right to any property in Jerusalem, and you have no share in its traditions."

International Standard Version
In reply to them, I said, "The God of Heaven will prosper us. That's why we're preparing to build. But as far as you're concerned, there exists no ancestral heritage, no legal right, nor any historic claim in Jerusalem.

Majority Standard Bible
So I answered them and said, ?The God of heaven is the One who will grant us success. We, His servants, will start rebuilding, but you have no portion, right, or claim in Jerusalem.?

NET Bible
I responded to them by saying, "The God of heaven will prosper us. We his servants will start the rebuilding. But you have no just or ancient right in Jerusalem."

New Heart English Bible
Then answered I them, and said to them, "The God of heaven will prosper us. Therefore we, his servants, will arise and build; but you have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem."

Webster's Bible Translation
Then I answered them, and said to them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.

World English Bible
Then I answered them, and said to them, “The God of heaven will prosper us. Therefore we, his servants, will arise and build; but you have no portion, nor right, nor memorial in Jerusalem.”
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And I return them word, and say to them, “The God of the heavens—He gives prosperity to us, and we His servants rise and have built; and to you there is no portion, and right, and memorial in Jerusalem.”

Young's Literal Translation
And I return them word, and say to them, 'The God of the heavens -- He doth give prosperity to us, and we His servants rise and have built; and to you there is no portion, and right, and memorial in Jerusalem.'

Smith's Literal Translation
And I shall turn back word to them, and say to them, The God of the heavens, he will prosper for us; and we his servants will rise up and build: and to you no portion and right and remembrance in Jerusalem.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And I answered them, and said to them: The God of heaven he helpeth us, and we are his servants: let us rise up and build: but you have no part, nor justice, nor remembrance in Jerusalem.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And I replied to them a word, and I said to them: “The God of heaven himself is helping us, and we are his servants. Let us rise up and build. But there is no portion, or justice, or remembrance in Jerusalem for you.”

New American Bible
My answer to them was this: “It is the God of heaven who will grant us success. We, his servants, shall set about the rebuilding; but you have neither share nor claim nor memorial in Jerusalem.”

New Revised Standard Version
Then I replied to them, “The God of heaven is the one who will give us success, and we his servants are going to start building; but you have no share or claim or historic right in Jerusalem.”
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Then I answered them and said, The God of heaven has delivered us: therefore we are working, standing firm, and building; but you have no right nor memorial nor portion in Jerusalem.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And I returned them an answer, and I said to them: “The God of Heaven, he has delivered us, and we are working and we are standing and we are building! You have no right or memorial or portion in Jerusalem!”
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Then answered I them, and said unto them: 'The God of heaven, He will prosper us; therefore we His servants will arise and build; but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.'

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And I answered them, and said to them, The God of heaven, he shall prosper us, and we his servants are pure, and we will build: but ye have no part, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Nehemiah Inspects the Walls
19But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about this, they mocked us and ridiculed us, saying, “What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” 20So I answered them and said, “The God of heaven is the One who will grant us success. We, His servants, will start rebuilding, but you have no portion, right, or claim in Jerusalem.”

Cross References
Ezra 4:3
But Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the other heads of the families of Israel replied, “You have no part with us in building a house for our God, since we alone must build it for the LORD, the God of Israel, as Cyrus king of Persia has commanded us.”

Psalm 127:1
A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain.

Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Philippians 1:6
being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Hebrews 13:6
So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”

Matthew 16:18
And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it.

Acts 5:39
But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God.”

2 Chronicles 15:7
But as for you, be strong; do not be discouraged, for your work will be rewarded.”

Isaiah 54:17
No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their vindication is from Me,” declares the LORD.

1 Peter 2:5
you 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.

Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.

2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”


Treasury of Scripture

Then answered I them, and said to them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but you have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.

The God

Nehemiah 2:4
Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven.

2 Chronicles 26:5
And he sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God: and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper.

Psalm 20:5
We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions.

ye have no

Ezra 4:3
But Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and the rest of the chief of the fathers of Israel, said unto them, Ye have nothing to do with us to build an house unto our God; but we ourselves together will build unto the LORD God of Israel, as king Cyrus the king of Persia hath commanded us.

Acts 8:21
Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.

memorial

Exodus 28:29
And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the LORD continually.

Leviticus 2:2
And he shall bring it to Aaron's sons the priests: and he shall take thereout his handful of the flour thereof, and of the oil thereof, with all the frankincense thereof; and the priest shall burn the memorial of it upon the altar, to be an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD:

Leviticus 24:7
And thou shalt put pure frankincense upon each row, that it may be on the bread for a memorial, even an offering made by fire unto the LORD.

Acts 4:11
This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

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Nehemiah 2
1. Artaxerxes, understanding the cause of Nehemiah's sadness,
6. sends him with letters and commission to Jerusalem
9. Nehemiah, to the grief of the enemies, comes to Jerusalem
12. He views secretly the ruins of the walls
17. He incites the Jews to build














So I answered them and said
This phrase introduces Nehemiah's response to the opposition he faced. The Hebrew root for "answered" (עָנָה, 'anah) implies a thoughtful and deliberate reply, indicating Nehemiah's confidence and reliance on divine wisdom. His response is not impulsive but grounded in faith and conviction, setting an example for believers to seek God's guidance when facing challenges.

The God of heaven Himself
This title for God emphasizes His sovereignty and supreme authority over all creation. The phrase "God of heaven" (אֱלֹהֵי הַשָּׁמַיִם, Elohei haShamayim) is a reminder of God's transcendence and His power to intervene in earthly matters. Historically, this title was significant during the post-exilic period, as it reassured the Israelites of God's continued presence and support despite their circumstances.

will prosper us
The Hebrew verb for "prosper" (צָלַח, tsalach) conveys the idea of success and advancement. Nehemiah's confidence in God's ability to prosper their efforts reflects a deep trust in divine providence. This assurance is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, reminding believers that true success comes from aligning with God's will and purposes.

therefore we His servants
Identifying as "His servants" (עֲבָדָיו, avadav) underscores the humility and dedication of Nehemiah and his companions. This phrase highlights their identity and mission as those who serve God, reinforcing the biblical principle that service to God is both a privilege and a responsibility. It calls believers to a life of obedience and commitment to God's work.

will arise and build
The determination to "arise and build" (נָקוּם וּבָנִינוּ, nakum uvaninu) signifies action and resolve. The verbs suggest a proactive stance, moving from intention to execution. This reflects the biblical theme of faith accompanied by works, as seen in James 2:17. Nehemiah's leadership inspires believers to take initiative in fulfilling God's purposes, trusting in His provision and guidance.

But you have no portion, or right, or claim in Jerusalem
This declaration to the adversaries underscores the exclusivity of God's covenant people. The terms "portion" (חֵלֶק, chelek), "right" (צְדָקָה, tsedaqah), and "claim" (זִכָּרוֹן, zikaron) denote legal and spiritual entitlements. Nehemiah asserts that those opposing God's work have no legitimate stake in Jerusalem, symbolizing the separation between God's people and those who reject His authority. This serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity and boundaries in the face of opposition.

(20) He will prosper us.--The reply is a defiance in the name of the God of heaven. The closing words imply that, as in the days of Zerubbabel, the Samaritan enemies desired really to have their share in the undertaking. Nehemiah makes Zerubbabel's answer, but strengthens it; they had nothing in common with Jerusalem, not even a place in its memorials, save one of shame.

Verse 20. - Then answered I. It is remarkable that Nehemiah takes no notice of the serious charge brought against him, does not say that he had the king's permission, but rather leaves the "adversaries" to suppose that he had not. Perhaps he thought that to reveal the truth would drive them to some desperate attempt, and therefore suppressed it. The God of heaven, he will prosper us. Instead of a human, Nehemiah claims a Divine sanction for his proceedings. He and his brethren will build as servants of the God of heaven. Compare the answer made to Tatnai in Zerubbabel's time - "We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and build the house that was builded these many years ago" (Ezra 5:11). Ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem. As the claim of the Samaritans to interfere in the affairs of the Jews had been disallowed when they came with an offer of aid (Ezra 4:2, 3), so now, when their interference is hostile in character, it is still more fiercely and indignantly rejected. They are told that they have no part in Jerusalem, no right, not even so much as a place in the recollections of the inhabitants. Their interference is officious, impertinent - what have they to do with Nehemiah, or the Israelites, or Jerusalem? Let them be content to manage the affairs of their own idolatrous community, and not trouble the worshippers of the true God. Nehemiah avoids opposition by concealment as long as he can; but when opposition nevertheless appears, he meets it with defiance.



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
So I answered
וָאָשִׁ֨יב (wā·’ā·šîḇ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Consecutive imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 7725: To turn back, in, to retreat, again

them
אוֹתָ֜ם (’ō·w·ṯām)
Direct object marker | third person masculine plural
Strong's 853: Untranslatable mark of the accusative case

and said,
וָאוֹמַ֤ר (wā·’ō·w·mar)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 559: To utter, say

“The God
אֱלֹהֵ֣י (’ĕ·lō·hê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 430: gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative

of heaven
הַשָּׁמַ֔יִם (haš·šā·ma·yim)
Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 8064: Heaven, sky

is the One
ה֚וּא (hū)
Pronoun - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1931: He, self, the same, this, that, as, are

who will grant us success.
יַצְלִ֣יחַֽ (yaṣ·lî·aḥ)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6743: To push forward

We,
וַאֲנַ֥חְנוּ (wa·’ă·naḥ·nū)
Conjunctive waw | Pronoun - first person common plural
Strong's 587: We

His servants,
עֲבָדָ֖יו (‘ă·ḇā·ḏāw)
Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5650: Slave, servant

will start
נָק֣וּם (nā·qūm)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common plural
Strong's 6965: To arise, stand up, stand

rebuilding,
וּבָנִ֑ינוּ (ū·ḇā·nî·nū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - first person common plural
Strong's 1129: To build

but you
וְלָכֶ֗ם (wə·lā·ḵem)
Conjunctive waw | Preposition | second person masculine plural
Strong's Hebrew

have no
אֵֽין־ (’ên-)
Adverb
Strong's 369: A non-entity, a negative particle

portion,
חֵ֧לֶק (ḥê·leq)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2506: Portion, tract, territory

right,
וּצְדָקָ֛ה (ū·ṣə·ḏā·qāh)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 6666: Rightness, subjectively, objectively

or claim
וְזִכָּר֖וֹן (wə·zik·kā·rō·wn)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2146: Memorial, remembrance

in Jerusalem.”
בִּירוּשָׁלִָֽם׃ (bî·rū·šā·lim)
Preposition-b | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 3389: Jerusalem -- probably 'foundation of peace', capital city of all Israel


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OT History: Nehemiah 2:20 Then answered I them and said (Neh Ne)
Nehemiah 2:19
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