Nehemiah 13:9

Then I ordered that the rooms be purified, and I had the articles of the house of God restored to them, along with the grain offerings and frankincense.

Study Bible

Then I gave orders
This phrase highlights Nehemiah's authoritative leadership and decisive action. The Hebrew root for "gave orders" is "tsavah," which implies a command or charge. Nehemiah's role as a governor and reformer is underscored here, demonstrating his commitment to restoring proper worship and order in the temple. His leadership is a model of godly authority, emphasizing the importance of taking decisive action to correct wrongs and uphold God's standards.

and they cleansed the rooms
The act of cleansing the rooms signifies a physical and spiritual purification. The Hebrew word "taher" means to be clean or pure, often used in the context of ritual purification. This cleansing was necessary because the temple storerooms had been defiled by Tobiah's unauthorized use (Nehemiah 13:4-5). This act symbolizes the need for holiness and the removal of anything that defiles God's dwelling place, reminding believers of the importance of maintaining purity in their own lives and worship.

and I returned the articles of the house of God
Returning the articles signifies the restoration of proper worship practices. These articles, likely including vessels and utensils used in temple services, were essential for the rituals prescribed in the Law. The Hebrew word "shub" for "returned" conveys a sense of restoration and repentance. Nehemiah's actions reflect a return to covenant faithfulness, emphasizing the importance of restoring what is sacred and ensuring that worship aligns with God's commands.

along with the grain offerings
Grain offerings, or "minchah" in Hebrew, were a vital part of the sacrificial system, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving to God. By restoring these offerings, Nehemiah reestablishes the community's covenant relationship with God. This act underscores the importance of giving and sacrifice in worship, reminding believers of the need to offer their best to God as an expression of gratitude and devotion.

and the frankincense
Frankincense, a fragrant resin used in worship, represents prayer and the presence of God. Its inclusion in the temple offerings signifies the restoration of a pleasing aroma to the Lord, symbolizing the prayers and worship of the people. The Hebrew word "lebonah" for frankincense is associated with purity and holiness. This restoration highlights the importance of sincere and heartfelt worship, encouraging believers to ensure that their prayers and offerings are genuine and pleasing to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in this passage, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader who played a crucial role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the spiritual renewal of the people. He was known for his strong leadership and commitment to God's laws.

2. The Temple
The house of God in Jerusalem, which had been desecrated by the improper use of its rooms. Nehemiah's actions were part of a broader effort to restore the sanctity of the Temple.

3. Tobiah
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Tobiah was an Ammonite official who had been given a room in the Temple by Eliashib the priest. Nehemiah's cleansing of the rooms was a direct response to this inappropriate arrangement.

4. Eliashib the Priest
The high priest who had allowed Tobiah to use a room in the Temple, compromising its sanctity.

5. The Articles of the House of God
Sacred items used in worship, which Nehemiah restored to their rightful place in the Temple.

Teaching Points

Restoration of Holiness
Nehemiah's actions remind us of the importance of maintaining the sanctity of our places of worship. We must be vigilant in ensuring that our churches remain dedicated to God's purposes.

Leadership and Accountability
Nehemiah demonstrates strong leadership by taking decisive action to correct wrongs. As Christians, we are called to hold ourselves and others accountable to God's standards.

The Importance of Worship
By restoring the articles and offerings, Nehemiah underscores the significance of proper worship. We should prioritize our worship practices and ensure they align with biblical teachings.

Cleansing and Renewal
Just as Nehemiah cleansed the Temple, we are called to cleanse our hearts and lives from anything that defiles our relationship with God.

Obedience to God's Commands
Nehemiah's adherence to God's laws serves as a model for us to follow. We should strive to obey God's commands in every aspect of our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What steps can we take to ensure that our places of worship remain dedicated to God's purposes, similar to Nehemiah's actions in the Temple?

2. How can we apply Nehemiah's example of leadership and accountability in our personal and community lives?

3. In what ways can we prioritize and enhance our worship practices to align with biblical teachings?

4. What areas of our lives need cleansing and renewal, and how can we invite God to help us in this process?

5. How does Nehemiah's obedience to God's commands challenge us to examine our own obedience in daily life? What scriptures can we turn to for guidance in this area?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:34-38
This passage describes the sacred use of frankincense in worship, highlighting the importance of restoring it to the Temple as Nehemiah did.

2 Chronicles 29:15-19
Similar to Nehemiah's actions, this passage describes the cleansing of the Temple during Hezekiah's reign, emphasizing the importance of purity in worship.

Matthew 21:12-13
Jesus cleansing the Temple connects to Nehemiah's actions, both emphasizing the need for reverence and purity in God's house.