Nehemiah 6:15

So the wall was completed in fifty-two days, on the twenty-fifth of Elul.

Study Bible

So the wall was completed
The completion of the wall signifies a monumental achievement for the people of Jerusalem. The Hebrew word for "completed" is "שָׁלַם" (shalom), which is related to peace and wholeness. This completion is not just a physical act but a spiritual victory, symbolizing the restoration of God's protection and favor over His people. The wall's completion is a testament to the perseverance and faith of Nehemiah and the Israelites, who overcame significant opposition and challenges.

on the twenty-fifth of Elul
Elul is the sixth month in the Hebrew calendar, typically falling around August or September. This period is significant in Jewish tradition as a time of repentance and preparation for the High Holy Days. The completion of the wall during this time underscores a spiritual renewal and readiness for the people to return to God's covenant. It is a reminder of God's perfect timing and His orchestration of events to align with His divine purposes.

in fifty-two days
The rapid completion of the wall in just fifty-two days is nothing short of miraculous. This swift accomplishment highlights the divine assistance and favor that Nehemiah and the builders received. Historically, such a feat would have been nearly impossible without God's intervention, given the size of the wall and the opposition faced. This serves as an encouragement to believers that with God's help, seemingly insurmountable tasks can be achieved. It also reflects the unity and dedication of the people, working together with a common purpose under Nehemiah's leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah was a Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes. He played a crucial role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.

2. Jerusalem
The city where the wall was rebuilt. It holds significant religious and historical importance for the Jewish people.

3. The Wall
The wall around Jerusalem was rebuilt to protect the city and its inhabitants from enemies. Its completion was a significant achievement for the Jewish community.

4. Elul
The sixth month of the Hebrew calendar, during which the wall was completed. This month typically corresponds to August-September in the Gregorian calendar.

5. Enemies of Judah
Various adversaries, including Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, opposed the rebuilding efforts, attempting to thwart Nehemiah's mission.

Teaching Points

Perseverance in the Face of Opposition
Nehemiah's determination to complete the wall despite significant opposition teaches us the importance of perseverance in our own spiritual and personal endeavors.

The Role of Leadership
Nehemiah's leadership qualities, such as prayerfulness, strategic planning, and courage, serve as a model for effective leadership in our communities and churches.

Divine Timing and Provision
The completion of the wall in fifty-two days demonstrates God's provision and perfect timing, encouraging us to trust in His plans for our lives.

Community and Cooperation
The rebuilding of the wall was a communal effort, reminding us of the power of working together in unity for a common purpose.

Faith in Action
Nehemiah's account exemplifies putting faith into action, encouraging believers to actively pursue God's calling in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities did Nehemiah exhibit that contributed to the successful completion of the wall, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

2. How does the opposition Nehemiah faced compare to challenges we encounter today when pursuing God's work?

3. In what ways does the completion of the wall in fifty-two days demonstrate God's faithfulness, and how can this encourage us in our current circumstances?

4. How can we foster a sense of community and cooperation in our church or local community, similar to the efforts seen in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's perfect timing in your life. How does Nehemiah's account reinforce the importance of trusting in God's timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4-6
These chapters provide background on the opposition faced during the rebuilding of the temple, which parallels the opposition Nehemiah faced with the wall.

Philippians 1:6
This verse speaks to the confidence that God will complete the good work He has begun, similar to how He enabled the completion of the wall.

Psalm 127:1
This psalm emphasizes that unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain, highlighting the divine assistance in Nehemiah's successful completion of the wall.