Nehemiah 13:7

to return to Jerusalem. Then I discovered the evil that Eliashib had done on behalf of Tobiah by providing him a room in the courts of the house of God.

Study Bible

and I arrived in Jerusalem
This phrase marks Nehemiah's return to Jerusalem after a period of absence. The Hebrew root for "arrived" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which often signifies coming or entering with purpose. Nehemiah's return is not merely a physical journey but a spiritual mission to restore order and holiness. Historically, this reflects the ongoing struggle to maintain the sanctity of Jerusalem amidst external influences and internal corruption.

and learned about the evil
The word "learned" comes from the Hebrew "יָדַע" (yada), meaning to know or perceive. Nehemiah's awareness of the situation is not just intellectual but deeply discerning, recognizing the moral and spiritual implications. The "evil" (רָעָה, ra'ah) here is not just wrongdoing but a violation of the covenantal relationship with God, highlighting the seriousness of the offense.

that Eliashib had done for Tobiah
Eliashib, the high priest, is implicated in this wrongdoing. His actions are particularly grievous because of his position of spiritual leadership. The name "Eliashib" means "God restores," which is ironic given his role in compromising the temple's sanctity. Tobiah, an Ammonite official, represents foreign influence and opposition to God's people. Historically, Tobiah's presence in the temple courts symbolizes the infiltration of secular and pagan elements into sacred spaces.

by providing him with a room
The provision of a room (חֶדֶר, cheder) in the temple courts is a significant breach of holiness. The temple is meant to be a place set apart for worship and the presence of God. By allowing Tobiah to reside there, Eliashib desecrates what is holy. This act reflects a broader theme of compromise and the need for vigilance in maintaining spiritual purity.

in the courts of the house of God
The "courts" (חָצֵר, chatser) of the temple are areas designated for worship and offerings. The "house of God" (בֵּית אֱלֹהִים, Beit Elohim) is a term that underscores the temple's sacredness as the dwelling place of the Divine. This phrase reminds us of the centrality of the temple in Jewish worship and identity. Nehemiah's reaction to this situation is rooted in a deep reverence for God's holiness and a commitment to restoring the temple's sanctity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
A Jewish leader and cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the city's walls and reform the community.

2. Eliashib
The high priest who was responsible for maintaining the sanctity of the temple but compromised by allowing Tobiah, an Ammonite, to use a room in the temple courts.

3. Tobiah
An Ammonite official and adversary of Nehemiah, who was given a room in the temple, contrary to the Law of Moses.

4. Jerusalem
The holy city of the Jews, where the temple was located and where Nehemiah returned to enforce religious reforms.

5. The Temple
The sacred place of worship for the Israelites, which was defiled by the presence of Tobiah, an outsider and enemy of Israel.

Teaching Points

Guarding the Sanctity of Worship
Just as Nehemiah took action to cleanse the temple, Christians are called to protect the purity of their worship and community from influences that contradict God's Word.

Leadership Accountability
Eliashib's failure as a leader serves as a warning that leaders must uphold God's standards and be vigilant against compromise.

The Danger of Compromise
Allowing Tobiah into the temple illustrates how small compromises can lead to significant spiritual decline. Believers must remain steadfast in their convictions.

The Importance of Vigilance
Nehemiah's return and immediate action demonstrate the need for constant vigilance in maintaining spiritual integrity and addressing issues promptly.

Restoration and Renewal
Nehemiah's reforms remind us of the ongoing need for personal and communal renewal in our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Nehemiah's reaction to Eliashib's actions teach us about the importance of maintaining the sanctity of our places of worship?

2. How can we apply the principle of separation from ungodly influences in our daily lives, as seen in Nehemiah's actions?

3. In what ways can church leaders today ensure they are not compromising their responsibilities, as Eliashib did?

4. How does the account of Nehemiah 13:7 challenge us to be vigilant in our spiritual lives and communities?

5. What steps can we take to restore and renew our commitment to God when we recognize areas of compromise in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 23:3-4
This passage forbids Ammonites and Moabites from entering the assembly of the Lord, highlighting the severity of Eliashib's actions in allowing Tobiah into the temple.

Ezra 9:1-2
Ezra's account of intermarriage with foreign nations, which parallels the theme of maintaining purity and separation from those who do not follow God's laws.

2 Corinthians 6:14-16
Paul's teaching on not being unequally yoked with unbelievers, which echoes the need for separation from those who oppose God's ways.