Nehemiah 11:35

Lod, and Ono; and in the Valley of the Craftsmen.

Study Bible

Lod, and Ono;
Lod and Ono were towns located in the territory of Benjamin, near the border with the tribe of Dan. Lod, known in the New Testament as Lydda, is mentioned in Acts 9:32-35, where Peter heals Aeneas. This area was significant for its strategic location on trade routes, contributing to its economic importance. Ono is mentioned in Nehemiah 6:2, where Nehemiah's enemies attempted to lure him there, indicating its role as a place of potential political intrigue. The mention of these towns highlights the repopulation efforts during Nehemiah's time, as the Israelites sought to reestablish their presence in the land after the Babylonian exile.

and in the Valley of the Craftsmen.
The Valley of the Craftsmen, also known as the Valley of the Artisans, suggests a region where skilled laborers and artisans resided. This indicates the presence of a community focused on craftsmanship, which was essential for rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem. The valley's name implies a concentration of trades such as metalworking, pottery, and other crafts necessary for the restoration of the city and its infrastructure. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God using the skills and talents of His people to accomplish His purposes, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-11) and the rebuilding of the Temple (1 Kings 6). The inclusion of this detail underscores the importance of every individual's contribution to the community's overall mission.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Lod
A town in the territory of Benjamin, known in the New Testament as Lydda. It was a significant location for the Jewish people returning from exile.

2. Ono
Another town in the territory of Benjamin, often mentioned alongside Lod. It was a place where the returning exiles settled.

3. Valley of the Craftsmen
This area was likely named for the artisans and skilled workers who lived and worked there. It highlights the importance of craftsmanship in the rebuilding efforts.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Community
The mention of Lod, Ono, and the Valley of the Craftsmen underscores the importance of community in rebuilding and sustaining faith. Just as the Israelites needed each other to rebuild their cities, we need our faith communities for spiritual growth and support.

Valuing Skilled Work
The Valley of the Craftsmen highlights the value of skilled labor in God's work. Every talent and skill can be used for God's glory, and we should honor and develop the gifts God has given us.

Heritage and Continuity
The return to these towns signifies a reclaiming of heritage and identity. As Christians, we are called to remember our spiritual heritage and continue the legacy of faith in our families and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rebuilding of communities like Lod and Ono reflect the importance of community in our own spiritual lives?

2. In what ways can we value and utilize the skills and talents within our church community, similar to the Valley of the Craftsmen?

3. How does understanding our spiritual heritage help us in our walk with Christ today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' return to their ancestral lands that apply to our own journeys of faith and restoration?

5. How can the account of Peter in Lydda (Acts 9) inspire us to see the potential for God's work in our own communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 2:33
This verse lists the people of Lod, Hadid, and Ono among those returning from exile, showing the continuity of the Jewish community in these areas.

1 Chronicles 8:12
Chronicles the descendants of Benjamin, including those who settled in Lod and Ono, emphasizing the tribal heritage and continuity.

Acts 9:32-35
In the New Testament, Peter visits Lydda (Lod) and heals a paralytic, demonstrating the ongoing significance of this location in the early Christian church.