Nehemiah 13:5

and had prepared for Tobiah a large room where they had previously stored the grain offerings, the frankincense, the temple articles, and the tithes of grain, new wine, and oil prescribed for the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers, along with the contributions for the priests.

Study Bible

and had prepared for Tobiah a large room
Tobiah was an Ammonite official and an adversary of Nehemiah, known for opposing the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. His presence in the temple signifies a breach of the covenant, as Ammonites were not to enter the assembly of God (Deuteronomy 23:3). The preparation of a room for him indicates a significant compromise in the spiritual integrity of the temple, reflecting the neglect of the reforms Nehemiah had instituted.

where they had previously stored the grain offerings, the frankincense, the temple articles,
These items were essential for the temple's daily operations and worship. Grain offerings were part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing dedication to God (Leviticus 2). Frankincense was used in incense offerings, representing prayers ascending to God (Exodus 30:34-38). The temple articles were sacred objects used in worship, emphasizing the holiness required in approaching God. The displacement of these items for Tobiah's use highlights a severe misappropriation of what was consecrated for divine service.

and the tithes of grain, new wine, and oil prescribed for the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers,
Tithes were a crucial part of the support system for the Levites, who had no inheritance of land and relied on these provisions for sustenance (Numbers 18:21-24). The new wine and oil were also part of the offerings that sustained the temple workers, including singers and gatekeepers, who played vital roles in worship and maintaining the temple's sanctity. The neglect of these provisions indicates a breakdown in the community's commitment to God's commands and the support of those dedicated to His service.

along with the contributions for the priests.
The priests were responsible for performing sacrifices and maintaining the temple's spiritual life. Contributions for the priests were necessary for their livelihood and the continuation of temple worship. The failure to provide these contributions suggests a disregard for the priestly role and the covenantal relationship between God and His people. This neglect can be seen as a precursor to the spiritual decline that Nehemiah sought to address upon his return to Jerusalem.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The governor of Judah who led the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and instituted reforms to restore the spiritual and social order of the Jewish community.

2. Eliashib
The high priest who was responsible for the temple and its services. He allowed Tobiah, an Ammonite official, to use a room in the temple courts, which was against the Law.

3. Tobiah
An Ammonite official and adversary of Nehemiah who was given a room in the temple by Eliashib, compromising the sanctity of the temple.

4. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites in Jerusalem, where offerings and tithes were stored and where the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers served.

5. Levites, Singers, and Gatekeepers
Temple servants who were supported by the tithes and offerings of the people, ensuring the proper functioning of temple worship.

Teaching Points

Sanctity of Worship Spaces
The temple was a sacred space meant for worship and service to God. Allowing Tobiah to occupy a room meant for offerings compromised its sanctity. We must ensure that our places of worship remain dedicated to God’s purposes.

Guarding Against Compromise
Eliashib’s decision to accommodate Tobiah shows how easily compromise can infiltrate our spiritual lives. We must be vigilant in maintaining our commitment to God’s standards.

Proper Stewardship
The room was meant for storing tithes and offerings, which were essential for the support of temple workers. This highlights the importance of proper stewardship and prioritizing God’s work in our financial decisions.

Accountability in Leadership
Eliashib’s actions remind us of the responsibility leaders have to uphold God’s laws and lead by example. Leaders must be held accountable to ensure they are guiding others in righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of Tobiah in the temple reflect on the spiritual state of the people and their leaders at that time?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our places of worship remain dedicated to God’s purposes today?

3. How can we guard against spiritual compromise in our personal lives and communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from Nehemiah’s response to the misuse of the temple space?

5. How does the concept of stewardship in Nehemiah 13:5 relate to our financial giving and support of church ministries today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 23:3-4
This passage forbids Ammonites and Moabites from entering the assembly of the Lord, highlighting the inappropriateness of Tobiah's presence in the temple.

Malachi 3:8-10
Discusses the importance of tithes and offerings, emphasizing the need for proper stewardship and support of temple services.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the need for purity and holiness in our lives, just as in the physical temple.