Nehemiah 11:16
New International Version
Shabbethai and Jozabad, two of the heads of the Levites, who had charge of the outside work of the house of God;

New Living Translation
Also Shabbethai and Jozabad, who were in charge of the work outside the Temple of God.

English Standard Version
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who were over the outside work of the house of God;

Berean Standard Bible
Shabbethai and Jozabad, two leaders of the Levites, who supervised the work outside the house of God;

Berean Literal Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad were over the outside work for the house of God, from the heads of the Levites;

King James Bible
And Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chief of the Levites, had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God.

New King James Version
Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the heads of the Levites, had the oversight of the business outside of the house of God;

New American Standard Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the leaders of the Levites, who were in charge of the outside work of the house of God;

NASB 1995
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the leaders of the Levites, who were in charge of the outside work of the house of God;

NASB 1977
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the leaders of the Levites, who were in charge of the outside work of the house of God;

Legacy Standard Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the chiefs of the Levites, who were over the outside work of the house of God;

Amplified Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the leaders of the Levites, who were in charge of the outside work of the house of God;

Berean Annotated Bible
Shabbethai (sabbatical) and Jozabad (YHWH has endowed), two leaders of the Levites, who supervised the work outside the house of God {Elohim};

Christian Standard Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the heads of the Levites, who supervised the work outside the house of God;

Holman Christian Standard Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the leaders of the Levites, who supervised the work outside the house of God;

American Standard Version
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God;

Contemporary English Version
Next, there were Shabbethai and Jozabad, the Levite leaders in charge of the work outside the temple.

English Revised Version
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God;

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Shabbethai and Jozabad, Levite leaders, who were in charge of the work outside God's temple.

Good News Translation
Shabbethai and Jozabad, prominent Levites in charge of the work outside the Temple.

International Standard Version
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, from the leaders of the descendants of Levi who oversaw the exterior work of the Temple of God,

NET Bible
Shabbethai and Jozabad, leaders of the Levites, were in charge of the external work for the temple of God;

New Heart English Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who had the oversight of the outward business of God's house;

Webster's Bible Translation
And Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chief of the Levites, had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Shabbethai and Jozabad, two leaders of the Levites, who supervised the work outside the house of God;

World English Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who had the oversight of the outward business of God’s house;
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and Shabbethai, and Jozabad, [are] over the outward work of the house of God, of the heads of the Levites,

Berean Literal Bible
and Shabbethai and Jozabad were over the outside work for the house of God, from the heads of the Levites;

Young's Literal Translation
and Shabbethai, and Jozabad, are over the outward work of the house of God, of the heads of the Levites,

Smith's Literal Translation
And Sabbethai and Jozabad over the exterior work to the house of God, from the heads of the Levites.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And Sabathai and Jozabed, who were over all the outward business of the house of Cod, of the princes of the Levites,

Catholic Public Domain Version
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, who were over all the works which were exterior to the house of God, from among the leaders of the Levites.

New American Bible
Shabbethai and Jozabad, levitical chiefs who were placed over the external affairs of the house of God;

New Revised Standard Version
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the leaders of the Levites, who were over the outside work of the house of God;
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And Zozabar was in charge of outside work of the house of the LORD.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And Yuzabar was over the work outside of the house of LORD JEHOVAH.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God;

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The New Settlers in Jerusalem
15From the Levites: Shemaiah son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Bunni; 16Shabbethai and Jozabad, two leaders of the Levites, who supervised the work outside the house of God; 17Mattaniah son of Mica, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, who led in thanksgiving and prayer; Bakbukiah, second among his associates; and Abda son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.…

Cross References
Shabbethai and Jozabad,

Ezra 10:15
(Only Jonathan son of Asahel and Jahzeiah son of Tikvah, supported by Meshullam and Shabbethai the Levite, opposed this plan.)

Ezra 8:33
On the fourth day, in the house of our God, we weighed out the silver and gold and sacred articles into the hand of Meremoth son of Uriah, the priest. Eleazar son of Phinehas was with him, along with the Levites Jozabad son of Jeshua and Noadiah son of Binnui.

Ezra 10:23
Among the Levites: Jozabad, Shimei, Kelaiah (that is, Kelita), Pethahiah, Judah, and Eliezer.
two leaders of the Levites,

Numbers 3:32
The chief of the leaders of the Levites was Eleazar son of Aaron the priest; he oversaw those responsible for the duties of the sanctuary.

1 Chronicles 15:22
Chenaniah the head Levite was the director of the music because he was highly skilled.

1 Chronicles 23:4-5
“Of these,” said David, “24,000 are to oversee the work of the house of the LORD, 6,000 are to be officers and judges, / 4,000 are to be gatekeepers, and 4,000 are to praise the LORD with the instruments I have made for giving praise.”
who supervised the work outside the house of God;

2 Chronicles 34:12-13
And the men did the work faithfully. The Levites overseeing them were Jahath and Obadiah, descendants of Merari, and Zechariah and Meshullam, descendants of Kohath. Other Levites, all skilled with musical instruments, / were over the laborers and supervised all who did the work, task by task. Some of the Levites were secretaries, officers, and gatekeepers.

2 Chronicles 24:12-13
Then the king and Jehoiada would give the money to those who supervised the labor on the house of the LORD to hire stonecutters and carpenters to restore the house of the LORD, as well as workers in iron and bronze to repair the house of the LORD. / So the workmen labored, and in their hands the repair work progressed. They restored the house of God according to its specifications, and they reinforced it.

1 Chronicles 23:28-32
but their duty was to assist the descendants of Aaron with the service of the house of the LORD, being responsible for the courts and chambers, the purification of all the holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God, / as well as for the rows of the showbread, the fine flour for the grain offering, the wafers of unleavened bread, the baking, the mixing, and all measurements of quantity and size. / They were also to stand every morning to give thanks and praise to the LORD, and likewise in the evening. …
1 Chronicles 9:16
Obadiah son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun; and Berechiah son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, who lived in the villages of the Netophathites.

1 Chronicles 9:22-23
The number of those chosen to be gatekeepers at the thresholds was 212. They were registered by genealogy in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their positions of trust. / So they and their descendants were assigned to guard the gates of the house of the LORD—the house called the Tent.

1 Chronicles 26:29
From the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons had the outside duties as officers and judges over Israel.

1 Chronicles 27:1
This is the list of the Israelites—the heads of families, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and their officers who served the king in every matter concerning the divisions on rotating military duty each month throughout the year. There were 24,000 men in each division:

2 Chronicles 8:14
In keeping with the ordinances of his father David, Solomon appointed the divisions of the priests over their service, and the Levites for their duties to offer praise and to minister before the priests according to the daily requirement. He also appointed gatekeepers by their divisions at each gate, for this had been the command of David, the man of God.

2 Chronicles 31:13
Jehiel, Azaziah, Nahath, Asahel, Jerimoth, Jozabad, Eliel, Ismachiah, Mahath, and Benaiah were overseers under the authority of Conaniah and his brother Shimei, by appointment of King Hezekiah and of Azariah the chief official of the house of God.

Ezra 3:8
In the second month of the second year after they had arrived at the house of God in Jerusalem, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, Jeshua son of Jozadak, and the rest of their associates including the priests, the Levites, and all who had returned to Jerusalem from the captivity, began the work. They appointed Levites twenty years of age or older to supervise the construction of the house of the LORD.


Treasury of Scripture

And Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chief of the Levites, had the oversight of the outward business of the house of God.

Shabbethai.

Nehemiah 8:7
Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place.

had the oversight of.

1 Chronicles 26:20
And of the Levites, Ahijah was over the treasures of the house of God, and over the treasures of the dedicated things.

outward.

Acts 6:2,3
Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables…

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Business Charge Chief Chiefs Heads House Jozabad Jo'zabad Levites Outside Outward Oversight Responsible Shabbethai Shab'bethai Work
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Business Charge Chief Chiefs Heads House Jozabad Jo'zabad Levites Outside Outward Oversight Responsible Shabbethai Shab'bethai Work
Nehemiah 11
1. The rulers, voluntary men, and the tenth man chosen by lot, dwell at Jerusalem.
3. A catalogue of their names.
20. Those who remain dwell in other cities.












Shabbethai and Jozabad
These two individuals are identified as leaders among the Levites. The Levites were a tribe set apart for religious duties and service in the temple. Shabbethai and Jozabad's mention highlights their importance in the community and their role in maintaining the spiritual life of Israel. Their leadership is significant as it reflects the organized structure of temple service and the importance of having dedicated leaders to oversee various aspects of worship and community life.

two leaders of the Levites
The Levites were responsible for assisting the priests and performing various tasks related to the temple. Being leaders among the Levites indicates that Shabbethai and Jozabad held positions of authority and were entrusted with significant responsibilities. This leadership role underscores the importance of order and hierarchy in the religious practices of Israel, ensuring that the worship and service to God were conducted properly and efficiently.

who supervised the work outside the house of God
Their supervision of work outside the house of God suggests that their responsibilities extended beyond the immediate temple activities. This could include managing the logistics of temple supplies, overseeing the maintenance of temple grounds, or coordinating the Levites' roles in the community. This phrase highlights the comprehensive nature of temple service, which required attention to both spiritual and practical matters. It also reflects the broader role of the Levites in supporting the community's spiritual and physical needs, ensuring that the worship of God was integrated into all aspects of life.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Shabbethai
A leader among the Levites, involved in the administration and oversight of activities outside the temple. His role signifies the importance of leadership in spiritual and practical matters.

2. Jozabad
Another leader among the Levites, working alongside Shabbethai. His inclusion highlights the collaborative nature of ministry and service.

3. Levites
A tribe set apart for religious duties, particularly in the temple. Their responsibilities extended beyond the temple, indicating a holistic approach to worship and service.

4. The House of God
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. The work outside the temple was crucial for maintaining the community's spiritual and physical well-being.

5. Supervision of Work
The task of overseeing activities outside the temple, which included various logistical and administrative duties necessary for the functioning of the community.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Leadership in Ministry
Effective leadership is crucial for the smooth operation of both spiritual and practical aspects of ministry. Leaders like Shabbethai and Jozabad ensure that the community's needs are met.

Collaboration in Service
Ministry is a collaborative effort. The partnership between Shabbethai and Jozabad demonstrates the strength found in working together for a common purpose.

Holistic Approach to Worship
Worship extends beyond the temple or church walls. The Levites' work outside the temple shows that serving God involves addressing both spiritual and practical needs.

Organizational Structure in Ministry
A well-organized structure is essential for effective ministry. The division of responsibilities among the Levites serves as a model for modern church administration.

Faithfulness in Assigned Roles
Each role in the community is significant. Faithfulness in fulfilling one's duties, whether inside or outside the temple, contributes to the overall health of the community.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Nehemiah 11:16?

2. How does Nehemiah 11:16 illustrate the importance of serving in God's house?

3. What roles did "Shabbethai and Jozabad" fulfill in Nehemiah 11:16?

4. How can we apply the dedication of temple workers to our church service?

5. What other scriptures emphasize the significance of serving in God's house?

6. How does Nehemiah 11:16 encourage us to support church leadership today?

7. What roles did the Levites play in Nehemiah 11:16, and why are they significant?

8. How does Nehemiah 11:16 reflect the organization of Jerusalem's community post-exile?

9. Why is the mention of "outside work" in Nehemiah 11:16 important for understanding temple service?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Nehemiah 11?

11. Who were the Sons of Korah in the Bible?

12. Nehemiah 11:21 - What archaeological proof exists for the Nethinim and their service near the Temple, as described in this passage?

13. Why does 2 Chronicles 11:13-17 claim a Levite migration to Judah when there is minimal historical or archaeological support for such a major priestly exodus?

14. Could the chronicler have exaggerated details to elevate David's religious reforms, raising questions about the historical reliability of 1 Chronicles 23?
What Does Nehemiah 11:16 Mean
Shabbethai and Jozabad

Nehemiah names these two men specifically: “Shabbethai and Jozabad” (Nehemiah 11:16).

• They are already familiar to the returned exiles; in Nehemiah 8:7 they helped the people understand God’s Law, and in Ezra 8:19–24 Levites of the same families earlier joined Ezra’s caravan.

• Their repeated appearance shows God’s habit of raising dependable servants for multiple assignments, echoing Moses’ call for faithful help in Exodus 18:25–26.


two leaders of the Levites

Scripture adds, “two leaders of the Levites.”

• Leadership among Levites meant recognized spiritual authority (Numbers 3:32; 1 Chronicles 15:16).

• God’s order: priests handled altar duties; Levites managed teaching, worship, and practical service (Deuteronomy 33:8–10; 1 Chronicles 23:3-5).

• These men model servant-leadership—guided by God, accountable to the community, much like the overseers Paul later describes in 1 Timothy 3:1-7.


who supervised the work

They “supervised the work,” a phrase that highlights hands-on oversight, not distant management.

• Similar language is used of Levites monitoring temple repairs under Josiah (2 Chronicles 34:12-13) and of Zerubbabel’s foremen rebuilding the temple foundation (Ezra 3:8-9).

• Biblical leadership always includes diligent stewardship of God’s assignments (Proverbs 27:23; 1 Corinthians 4:2).

• Their supervision meant coordinating people, materials, and schedules so worship could flourish.


outside the house of God

The phrase ends, “outside the house of God.”

• While priests served inside, these Levites organized everything surrounding the temple precincts—storerooms, gates, supplies, security (1 Chronicles 26:1-19; Nehemiah 12:44-47).

• External order protected internal worship; without their oversight, offerings would lapse (Malachi 1:10) and neglect would creep in (Nehemiah 13:10-12).

• Their post shows that every sphere connected to God’s work—whether seen or unseen—matters equally to Him (Colossians 3:23-24).


summary

Nehemiah 11:16 spotlights Shabbethai and Jozabad as faithful Levite leaders who took charge of practical ministries surrounding the temple. Their named recognition underscores God’s value of dependable servants; their leadership role affirms the structured service God established among His people; their diligent supervision models responsible stewardship; and their focus on duties outside the sanctuary reminds us that maintaining the environment where worship happens is itself an act of worship.

(16) Outward business.--This is a remarkable specification of the functions of the Levites, parallel with the "valour" of the priests just before. The preceding chapter explains the "outward business."



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Shabbethai
וְשַׁבְּתַ֨י (wə·šab·bə·ṯay)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 7678: Shabbethai -- a Levite

and Jozabad,
וְיוֹזָבָ֜ד (wə·yō·w·zā·ḇāḏ)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3107: Jozabad

two leaders
מֵרָאשֵׁ֖י (mê·rā·šê)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 7218: The head

of the Levites,
הַלְוִיִּֽם׃ (hal·wî·yim)
Article | Noun - proper - masculine plural
Strong's 3881: Levites -- descendant of Levi

who supervised
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

the work
הַמְּלָאכָ֤ה (ham·mə·lā·ḵāh)
Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4399: Deputyship, ministry, employment, work, property

outside
הַחִֽיצֹנָה֙ (ha·ḥî·ṣō·nāh)
Article | Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 2435: The, wall side, exterior, secular

the house
לְבֵ֣ית (lə·ḇêṯ)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1004: A house

of God;
הָאֱלֹהִ֔ים (hā·’ĕ·lō·hîm)
Article | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 430: gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative


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OT History: Nehemiah 11:16 And Shabbethai and Jozabad of the chiefs (Neh Ne)
Nehemiah 11:15
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