Nehemiah 5:4

Still others were saying, "We have borrowed money to pay the king's tax on our fields and vineyards.

Study Bible

Still others were saying
This phrase indicates that there were multiple groups among the Israelites facing different issues. The context of Nehemiah 5 reveals a time of economic distress and social injustice among the returned exiles. The phrase suggests a communal outcry, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem. This communal aspect is reminiscent of other biblical instances where the people of Israel collectively express their grievances, such as in Exodus 2:23, where the Israelites groan under Egyptian bondage.

We have borrowed money
Borrowing money in ancient times often led to severe consequences, including servitude or loss of property. The Law of Moses provided guidelines for lending and borrowing, emphasizing fairness and compassion (Exodus 22:25-27, Leviticus 25:35-37). The need to borrow indicates a failure in the community to uphold these laws, reflecting a deeper spiritual and social crisis. This situation parallels the warnings in Proverbs about the dangers of debt (Proverbs 22:7).

to pay the king’s tax
The king referred to here is likely Artaxerxes I of Persia, under whose reign Nehemiah served as governor. The Persian Empire imposed heavy taxes on its provinces, which could be burdensome for the local populations. This taxation system is corroborated by historical records from the Persian period, which describe the administrative and fiscal policies of the empire. The burden of taxation is a recurring theme in the Bible, as seen in 1 Samuel 8:10-18, where Samuel warns the Israelites about the demands a king would place on them.

on our fields and vineyards
Fields and vineyards were vital to the agrarian economy of ancient Israel, representing both sustenance and wealth. The loss or mortgaging of these lands would have been devastating, threatening the livelihood and heritage of families. This situation echoes the warnings in Deuteronomy 28:30-33 about the consequences of disobedience to God’s covenant, where foreign powers would consume the produce of the land. The mention of fields and vineyards also evokes the imagery of the Promised Land, a place of abundance and blessing, now under threat due to external pressures and internal failings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah is a Jewish leader who is serving as the governor of Judah. He is known for his leadership in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and addressing social injustices among the people.

2. The Jewish People
The community in Jerusalem, including those who are struggling financially and are burdened by debt and taxes.

3. The King’s Tax
Refers to the financial obligations imposed by the Persian Empire on its subjects, which were a significant burden on the people of Judah.

4. Fields and Vineyards
Represents the primary means of livelihood for the Jewish people, which were under threat due to the financial pressures they faced.

5. Jerusalem
The city where these events are taking place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and identity.

Teaching Points

The Burden of Debt
Financial burdens can lead to significant stress and hardship. It is important to seek wise counsel and make prudent financial decisions to avoid unnecessary debt.

Social Justice and Compassion
As Christians, we are called to be aware of the injustices around us and to act with compassion and fairness, especially towards those who are economically disadvantaged.

Leadership and Responsibility
Nehemiah’s response to the plight of his people teaches us about the importance of responsible leadership that prioritizes the well-being of the community.

Trust in God’s Provision
In times of financial difficulty, it is crucial to trust in God’s provision and to seek His guidance in managing resources.

Community Support
The church community should be a place where members support one another, especially in times of financial need, reflecting the early church’s practice of sharing resources.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern parallels to the financial burdens faced by the people in Nehemiah 5:4, and how can we address them as a community?

2. How does the biblical principle of lending without interest (Exodus 22:25) challenge our current financial practices?

3. In what ways can we, as individuals and as a church, demonstrate compassion and support for those struggling with debt?

4. How can we apply the lessons of Nehemiah’s leadership in our own roles, whether in the church, workplace, or family?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God’s provision in a financial matter. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:25
This verse provides a background on the laws regarding lending and interest among the Israelites, highlighting the importance of compassion and fairness in financial dealings.

Proverbs 22:7
This verse speaks to the relationship between borrower and lender, emphasizing the power dynamics involved in debt.

Matthew 6:12
In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches about forgiveness of debts, which can be seen as both financial and spiritual, connecting to the theme of release from burdens.