Nehemiah 2:1

Now in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was set before him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had never been sad in his presence,

Study Bible

Now in the month of Nisan
The month of Nisan corresponds to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. It is the first month of the Jewish ecclesiastical year, marking the beginning of spring and the time of Passover (Exodus 12:2). This timing is significant as it symbolizes new beginnings and deliverance, paralleling Nehemiah's mission to rebuild Jerusalem.

in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes
King Artaxerxes I reigned from 465-424 BC. The twentieth year of his reign would be around 445 BC. Artaxerxes was a Persian king, and his reign is noted for its relative stability and support of the Jewish people, as seen in his authorization of Nehemiah's mission. This historical context highlights the providence of God in using foreign rulers to fulfill His purposes for Israel.

when wine was set before him
Wine was a common beverage in the Persian court, often associated with royal banquets and official duties. Nehemiah, as the cupbearer, had the responsibility of ensuring the king's wine was safe, a position of trust and influence. This setting underscores the importance of Nehemiah's role and the risk involved in approaching the king with a personal request.

I took the wine and gave it to the king
Nehemiah's role as cupbearer was not just about serving drinks; it was a position of significant trust and intimacy with the king. This access provided Nehemiah with a unique opportunity to influence the king, reflecting how God places His people in strategic positions for His purposes, similar to Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41:40-41).

I had never been sad in his presence
Displaying sadness before the king was risky, as it could be seen as a sign of disloyalty or dissatisfaction. Nehemiah's emotional state reveals the depth of his concern for Jerusalem and his people. This moment of vulnerability sets the stage for his bold request, demonstrating faith and courage. It also foreshadows the compassion of Christ, who wept over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
A Jewish cupbearer to the Persian King Artaxerxes, Nehemiah is a key figure in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. His role as a cupbearer was significant, as it involved a position of trust and influence.

2. King Artaxerxes
The Persian king during Nehemiah's time. His reign is marked by interactions with the Jewish people, including the decree allowing the rebuilding of Jerusalem.

3. Month of Nisan
The first month of the Jewish calendar, corresponding to March-April. This timing is significant as it marks the beginning of spring and the season of Passover, a time of renewal and hope.

4. Wine
Symbolic of joy and celebration, wine in this context also represents Nehemiah's duties and the trust placed in him by the king.

5. Sadness in the King's Presence
Nehemiah's emotional state is noteworthy because it was dangerous to appear sad before the king, indicating the depth of his concern for Jerusalem.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
Nehemiah's opportunity to speak to the king came in God's perfect timing. We should trust that God orchestrates events in our lives according to His divine schedule.

Courage in Adversity
Nehemiah's willingness to show his true emotions before the king demonstrates courage. We are called to be honest and courageous in our faith, even when it involves risk.

Prayerful Preparation
Before approaching the king, Nehemiah had spent time in prayer and fasting (Nehemiah 1:4). This teaches us the importance of preparing our hearts through prayer before taking action.

God's Sovereignty Over Leaders
The favorable response of King Artaxerxes to Nehemiah's request shows God's sovereignty over earthly rulers. We can trust that God can move the hearts of leaders for His purposes.

Role of Influence
Nehemiah's position as a cupbearer gave him unique access to the king. We should recognize and utilize the positions and influence God has given us to further His kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's role as a cupbearer influence his ability to impact the rebuilding of Jerusalem?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in the timing of events in Nehemiah 2:1, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

3. What risks did Nehemiah face by showing sadness before the king, and how can we apply his courage to our own situations where we must stand for our beliefs?

4. How does Nehemiah's approach to prayer and preparation before speaking to the king serve as a model for us in making important decisions?

5. Reflect on a time when you have seen God's sovereignty at work in the actions of leaders or authorities. How does this reinforce your trust in God's control over world events?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 7
Provides background on King Artaxerxes' favorable policies towards the Jews, setting the stage for Nehemiah's mission.

Proverbs 21:1
Illustrates how God can influence the hearts of kings, relevant to Nehemiah's interaction with Artaxerxes.

Esther 4:11
Highlights the risk of appearing sad or distressed before a Persian king, similar to Nehemiah's situation.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, paralleling Nehemiah's prayerful approach before speaking to the king.