Nehemiah 11:1

Now the leaders of the people settled in Jerusalem, and the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of ten to live in the holy city of Jerusalem, while the remaining nine were to dwell in their own towns.

Study Bible

Now the leaders of the people
This phrase indicates the initiative and responsibility taken by the leaders of Israel. The Hebrew word for "leaders" is "sarim," which often refers to princes or officials. In the context of Nehemiah, these leaders were likely those who had shown commitment to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the spiritual renewal of the people. Their decision to settle in Jerusalem reflects a willingness to lead by example, prioritizing the spiritual and communal well-being of the nation over personal comfort.

settled in Jerusalem
The act of settling in Jerusalem was significant. Jerusalem, known as "Yerushalayim" in Hebrew, was not just a city but the center of Jewish worship and identity. By choosing to live there, the leaders were affirming the city's importance as the heart of the Jewish faith and the place where God's presence dwelt in the temple. This decision also underscores the restoration of Jerusalem as a thriving, populated city, essential for its defense and prosperity.

and the rest of the people cast lots
Casting lots was a common biblical practice used to discern God's will. The Hebrew term "goral" refers to this method, which was seen as a way to allow God to make decisions for the community. This practice ensured fairness and divine guidance in the selection process, emphasizing the belief that God was actively involved in the affairs of His people.

to bring one out of ten to live in Jerusalem
This phrase highlights the tithe-like selection process, where one-tenth of the population was chosen to reside in Jerusalem. The concept of a tithe, or "ma'aser" in Hebrew, is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition as an offering to God. By applying this principle to the population, it symbolized a dedication of a portion of the people to the service and revitalization of the holy city.

the holy city
Jerusalem is referred to as "the holy city," underscoring its spiritual significance. The Hebrew word "qodesh" means holy or set apart. Jerusalem was the location of the temple, the dwelling place of God's presence on earth. This designation as a holy city reflects its role as the spiritual center of Israel and the focal point of God's covenant with His people.

while the remaining nine were to stay in their own towns
This phrase acknowledges the balance between repopulating Jerusalem and maintaining the surrounding towns. The Hebrew word for "towns" is "ayarot," which refers to the smaller settlements outside the capital. This distribution ensured that the agricultural and economic needs of the nation were met while also supporting the centralization of worship and governance in Jerusalem. It reflects a strategic approach to rebuilding the nation, ensuring both spiritual and practical needs were addressed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Leaders of the People
These were the heads or chiefs among the Israelites who took the initiative to settle in Jerusalem, demonstrating leadership and commitment to the restoration of the city.

2. Jerusalem
Known as the "holy city," Jerusalem was central to Jewish identity and worship. It was the location of the temple and the heart of religious and political life.

3. Casting Lots
This was a common biblical practice used to make decisions or determine God's will. It reflects a reliance on divine providence rather than human choice.

4. The People
The general populace of Israel, who were involved in the decision-making process through the casting of lots, showing communal participation in the restoration efforts.

5. The Holy City
A term emphasizing Jerusalem's spiritual significance, underscoring its role as the center of Jewish worship and identity.

Teaching Points

Commitment to God's Work
The leaders' decision to settle in Jerusalem demonstrates a commitment to God's work and the importance of leadership in spiritual restoration.

Community Involvement
The casting of lots for the people to live in Jerusalem shows the value of communal decision-making and shared responsibility in God's plans.

Trust in Divine Providence
The use of lots reflects a trust in God's sovereignty and guidance, encouraging believers to seek His will in their decisions.

Significance of Place
Jerusalem's designation as the "holy city" reminds us of the importance of sacred spaces in our spiritual lives and the need to prioritize them.

Sacrificial Living
Moving to Jerusalem required sacrifice and a willingness to leave comfort zones, challenging believers to consider what sacrifices they might make for God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the leaders' willingness to settle in Jerusalem about the role of leadership in spiritual renewal?

2. How does the practice of casting lots in Nehemiah 11:1 compare to other instances in the Bible, and what does it teach us about seeking God's guidance?

3. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, participate in God's work today, similar to the communal involvement seen in Nehemiah 11:1?

4. How does the concept of Jerusalem as the "holy city" challenge us to view our own places of worship and community?

5. What sacrifices might God be calling you to make for the sake of His kingdom, and how can Nehemiah 11:1 inspire you to respond?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 18:10
The practice of casting lots is seen in the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, indicating a reliance on God's guidance in decision-making.

Proverbs 16:33
This verse highlights the belief that the outcome of casting lots is determined by the Lord, reinforcing the idea of divine sovereignty.

Acts 1:26
The apostles cast lots to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot, showing continuity in the practice of seeking God's will through lots.