Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, so that they will provide me safe-conduct until I arrive in Judah? New Living Translation I also said to the king, “If it please the king, let me have letters addressed to the governors of the province west of the Euphrates River, instructing them to let me travel safely through their territories on my way to Judah. English Standard Version And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given me to the governors of the province Beyond the River, that they may let me pass through until I come to Judah, Berean Standard Bible I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may letters be given to me for the governors west of the Euphrates, so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah. Berean Literal Bible And I said to the king, “If it is good to the king, let letters be given to me for the governors beyond the River, that they let me pass over until that I come to Judah, King James Bible Moreover I said unto the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may convey me over till I come into Judah; New King James Version Furthermore I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the region beyond the River, that they must permit me to pass through till I come to Judah, New American Standard Bible And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given me for the governors of the provinces beyond the River, so that they will allow me to pass through until I come to Judah, NASB 1995 And I said to the king, “If it please the king, let letters be given me for the governors of the provinces beyond the River, that they may allow me to pass through until I come to Judah, NASB 1977 And I said to the king, “If it please the king, let letters be given me for the governors of the provinces beyond the River, that they may allow me to pass through until I come to Judah, Legacy Standard Bible And I said to the king, “If it is good to the king, let letters be given me for the governors of the provinces beyond the River, that they may allow me to pass through until I come to Judah, Amplified Bible Then I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the provinces beyond the [Euphrates] River, so that they will allow me to pass through until I reach Judah, Berean Annotated Bible I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may letters be given to me for the governors west of the Euphrates \beyond the River/, so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah (praised). Christian Standard Bible I also said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let me have letters written to the governors of the region west of the Euphrates River, so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah. Holman Christian Standard Bible I also said to the king: “If it pleases the king, let me have letters written to the governors of the region west of the Euphrates River, so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah. American Standard Version Moreover I said unto the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the River, that they may let me pass through till I come unto Judah; Contemporary English Version Then I asked, "Your Majesty, would you be willing to give me letters to the governors of the provinces west of the Euphrates River, so that I can travel safely to Judah? English Revised Version Moreover I said unto the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may let me pass through till I come unto Judah; GOD'S WORD® Translation I also asked the king, "If it pleases Your Majesty, let me have letters addressed to the governors [of the province] west of the Euphrates River. In the letters tell them to grant me safe conduct until I arrive in Judah. Good News Translation Then I asked him to grant me the favor of giving me letters to the governors of West-of-Euphrates Province, instructing them to let me travel to Judah. International Standard Version I also asked the king, "If it seems good to you, order that letters of authorization be given me for the Trans-Euphrates governors, so they will allow me to pass through to Judah, NET Bible I said to the king, "If the king is so inclined, let him give me letters for the governors of Trans-Euphrates that will enable me to travel safely until I reach Judah, New Heart English Bible Moreover I said to the king, "If it pleases the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the River, that they may let me pass through until I come to Judah; Webster's Bible Translation Moreover, I said to the king, If it should please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may convey me over till I come into Judah: Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleI also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may letters be given to me for the governors west of the Euphrates, so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah. World English Bible Moreover I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the River, that they may let me pass through until I come to Judah; Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd I say to the king, “If [it is] good to the king, let letters be given to me for the governors beyond the River, that they let me pass over until I come to Judah: Berean Literal Bible And I said to the king, “If it is good to the king, let letters be given to me for the governors beyond the River, that they let me pass over until that I come to Judah, Young's Literal Translation And I say to the king, 'If to the king it be good, letters let be given to me for the governors beyond the River, that they let me pass over till that I come in unto Judah: Smith's Literal Translation And saying to the king, If good to the king letters shall be given to me to the prefects beyond the river, that they shall cause me to pass over till I shall come to Judah. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd I said to the king: If it seem good to the king, let him give me letters to the governors of the country beyond the river, that they convey me over, till I come into Judea: Catholic Public Domain Version And I said to the king: “If it seems good to the king, may he give me letters to the governors of the region beyond the river, so that they may lead me through, until I arrive in Judea, New American Bible I asked the king further: “If it please the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of West-of-Euphrates, that they may give me safe-conduct till I arrive in Judah; New Revised Standard Version Then I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given me to the governors of the province Beyond the River, that they may grant me passage until I arrive in Judah; Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleMoreover I said to the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river Euphrates, that they may escort me over till I come to Judah; Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And I said to the King: “If it is pleasing to the King, let them write for me a letter to the Ruler of the Crossing of the River, that they would convey me over until I go to Yehuda OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Moreover I said unto the king: 'If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the River, that they may let me pass through till I come unto Judah; Brenton Septuagint Translation And I said to the king, If it seem good to the king, let him give me letters to the governors beyond the river, so as to forward me till I come to Juda; Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Nehemiah Sent to Jerusalem…6Then the king, with the queen seated beside him, asked me, “How long will your journey take, and when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me, and I set a time. 7I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may letters be given to me for the governors west of the Euphrates, so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah. 8And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, so that he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house I will occupy.” And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests.… Cross References I also said to him, Esther 5:8 If I have found favor in the sight of the king, and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfill my request, may the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then I will answer the king’s question.” Esther 7:3 Queen Esther replied, “If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, grant me my life as my petition, and the lives of my people as my request. Nehemiah 1:11 O Lord, may Your ear be attentive to my prayer and to the prayers of Your servants who delight to revere Your name. Give Your servant success this day, I pray, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.” (At that time I was the cupbearer to the king.) “If it pleases the king, Esther 5:4 “If it pleases the king,” Esther replied, “may the king and Haman come today to the banquet I have prepared for the king.” Esther 8:5 “If it pleases the king,” she said, “and if I have found favor in his sight, and the matter seems proper to the king, and I am pleasing in his sight, may an order be written to revoke the letters that the scheming Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, wrote to destroy the Jews in all the king’s provinces. Esther 1:19 So if it pleases the king, let him issue a royal decree, and let it be recorded in the laws of Persia and Media so that it cannot be repealed, that Vashti shall never again enter the presence of King Xerxes, and that her royal position shall be given to a woman better than she. may letters be given to me Ezra 7:11 This is the text of the letter King Artaxerxes had given to Ezra the priest and scribe, an expert in the commandments and statutes of the LORD to Israel: Esther 8:10 Mordecai wrote in the name of King Xerxes and sealed it with the royal signet ring. He sent the documents by mounted couriers riding on swift horses bred from the royal mares. Esther 9:20 Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews in all the provinces of King Xerxes, both near and far, for the governors west of the Euphrates, Ezra 8:36 They also delivered the king’s edicts to the royal satraps and governors of the region west of the Euphrates, who proceeded to assist the people and the house of God. Ezra 5:3 At that time Tattenai the governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and their associates went to the Jews and asked, “Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and restore this structure?” Ezra 6:6 Therefore Darius decreed: To Tattenai governor of the region west of the Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai, and your associates and officials in the region: You must stay away from that place! so that they will grant me safe passage Ezra 8:21-23 And there by the Ahava Canal I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask Him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. / For I was ashamed to ask the king for an escort of soldiers and horsemen to protect us from our enemies on the road, since we had told him, “The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek Him, but His great anger is against all who forsake Him.” / So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and He granted our request. Exodus 23:20 Behold, I am sending an angel before you to protect you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. Psalm 121:8 The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore. until I reach Judah. Ezra 1:3 Whoever among you belongs to His people, may his God be with him, and may he go to Jerusalem in Judah and build the house of the LORD, the God of Israel; He is the God who is in Jerusalem. Treasury of Scripture Moreover I said to the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may convey me over till I come into Judah; let letters Nehemiah 2:9 Then I came to the governors beyond the river, and gave them the king's letters. Now the king had sent captains of the army and horsemen with me. Ezra 6:6 Now therefore, Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and your companions the Apharsachites, which are beyond the river, be ye far from thence: Ezra 7:21 And I, even I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which are beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it be done speedily, that they may Ezra 8:22 For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him. Jump to Previous Allow Convey Forward Further Good Governors Judah King's Letters Moreover Please Pleases Pleasure Provide Province Provinces River Rulers Trans-EuphratesJump to Next Allow Convey Forward Further Good Governors Judah King's Letters Moreover Please Pleases Pleasure Provide Province Provinces River Rulers Trans-EuphratesNehemiah 2 1. Artaxerxes, understanding the cause of Nehemiah's sadness, 6. sends him with letters and commission to Jerusalem 9. Nehemiah, to the grief of the enemies, comes to Jerusalem 12. He views secretly the ruins of the walls 17. He incites the Jews to build I also said to him Nehemiah is speaking to King Artaxerxes, demonstrating his boldness and faith. This reflects the importance of prayer and preparation, as Nehemiah had already prayed for favor before approaching the king (Nehemiah 1:11). If it pleases the king may letters be given to me for the governors west of the Euphrates so that they will grant me safe passage until I reach Judah Persons / Places / Events 1. NehemiahA Jewish cupbearer to the Persian King Artaxerxes, who is deeply concerned about the welfare of Jerusalem and its walls. 2. King Artaxerxes The Persian king who Nehemiah serves and who grants him permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild its walls. 3. Governors of the Region Beyond the River These are the local authorities in the Trans-Euphrates region, which Nehemiah must pass through to reach Judah. 4. Judah The region where Jerusalem is located, the city Nehemiah is determined to help rebuild. 5. The River Refers to the Euphrates River, a significant geographical marker in the Persian Empire. Teaching Points Boldness in FaithNehemiah demonstrates boldness in his faith by making a specific request to the king. Believers are encouraged to approach God with confidence, knowing He is able to provide for our needs. Preparation and Planning Nehemiah's request for letters shows his foresight and planning. Christians are reminded of the importance of preparing and planning in accordance with God's will. God's Sovereignty The favorable response of King Artaxerxes is a testament to God's sovereignty over the affairs of men. Trusting in God's control can bring peace and assurance in our endeavors. Intercession and Advocacy Nehemiah acts as an advocate for his people, a role that believers can emulate by interceding for others and seeking their welfare. Courage in Leadership Nehemiah's courage to speak up and take action is a model for Christian leadership, emphasizing the need for courage and initiative in fulfilling God's purposes. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Nehemiah 2:7?2. How does Nehemiah 2:7 demonstrate the importance of seeking permission from authorities? 3. What does Nehemiah 2:7 reveal about planning and preparation in God's work? 4. How can Nehemiah's request for letters inspire our approach to spiritual challenges? 5. In what ways does Nehemiah 2:7 show reliance on God's provision and favor? 6. How does Nehemiah 2:7 connect with Romans 13:1 on respecting governing authorities? 7. What does Nehemiah 2:7 reveal about the importance of letters of authority in biblical times? 8. How does Nehemiah 2:7 demonstrate the role of divine favor in leadership? 9. What historical evidence supports the events described in Nehemiah 2:7? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Nehemiah 2? 11. Is there verifiable evidence for the letters from Artaxerxes granting Nehemiah safe passage and timber rights (Nehemiah 2:7–8)? 12. Why do other biblical or historical records rarely corroborate Nehemiah's account of official support from the Persian Empire (Nehemiah 2)? 13. Ezra 8:21–23 portrays a successful journey relying solely on divine protection; is there historical or archaeological evidence of such a safe passage without royal guards? 14. Nehemiah 4:6: Is it physically plausible for the wall to reach “half its height” so quickly with the limited manpower described? What Does Nehemiah 2:7 Mean I also said to him• Nehemiah’s conversation with Artaxerxes continues; he does not stop with one request. • Shows deliberate planning after months of prayer (Nehemiah 1:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Teaches that righteous petitions may be layered, not timid (Hebrews 4:16). If it pleases the king • Nehemiah honors God-ordained authority (Romans 13:1; 1 Peter 2:13). • A respectful tone acknowledges that “the king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD” (Proverbs 21:1). • Demonstrates humility: God opens doors through earthly rulers. May letters be given to me • Written authorization was essential; Nehemiah seeks clear, official support. • Shows wisdom in securing practical documentation, not presuming on memories or verbal promises (Proverbs 15:22). • Reflects stewardship—he uses available means while trusting God (Nehemiah 2:8). For the governors west of the Euphrates • Specifies the audience of the letters: regional Persian officials controlling passage to Judah. • Identifies potential opposition; Nehemiah anticipates resistance (Nehemiah 2:10; 1 Corinthians 16:9). • God’s people often must navigate secular systems to advance kingdom purposes. So that they will grant me safe passage • Safety is a legitimate concern; Nehemiah does not presume immunity from danger (Psalm 121:7-8). • He relies on both divine protection and human protocols (Nehemiah 4:9). • Illustrates balance: faith in God expressed through prudent action (Matthew 10:16). Until I reach Judah • The goal is Jerusalem’s welfare, not personal comfort (Nehemiah 2:5). • Journey’s end is specific; clear objectives honor God and motivate people (Philippians 3:14). • Foreshadows completion: Nehemiah will arrive, because God’s purpose is unstoppable (Isaiah 55:11). summary Nehemiah 2:7 portrays a faithful servant who, after months of prayer, makes a respectful, strategic request for royal letters to secure safe conduct to Judah. The verse models humility before authority, thoughtful planning, and trust that God directs even pagan rulers to accomplish His covenant promises. (7) To the governors beyond the river.--Between the Euphrates and Susa protection was not needed.Verse 7. - Let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river. It is not quite clear why no letters were needed to the governors between Susa and the Euphrates. Perhaps, while travelling was safe, at any rate with an escort, in the more central provinces, beyond the river it became unsafe (see Ezra 8:31).Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew I also saidוָאוֹמַר֮ (wā·’ō·w·mar) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - first person common singular Strong's 559: To utter, say to [him], לַמֶּלֶךְ֒ (lam·me·leḵ) Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 4428: A king “If אִם־ (’im-) Conjunction Strong's 518: Lo!, whether?, if, although, Oh that!, when, not it pleases ט֔וֹב (ṭō·wḇ) Adjective - masculine singular Strong's 2895: To be pleasing or good the king, הַמֶּ֣לֶךְ (ham·me·leḵ) Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 4428: A king may letters אִגְּרוֹת֙ (’ig·gə·rō·wṯ) Noun - feminine plural Strong's 107: An epistle be given יִתְּנוּ־ (yit·tə·nū-) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural Strong's 5414: To give, put, set to me לִ֔י (lî) Preposition | first person common singular Strong's Hebrew for עַֽל־ (‘al-) Preposition Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against the governors פַּחֲו֖וֹת (pa·ḥă·wō·wṯ) Noun - masculine plural construct Strong's 6346: A governor west עֵ֣בֶר (‘ê·ḇer) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 5676: A region across, on the opposite side of the Euphrates, הַנָּהָ֑ר (han·nā·hār) Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 5104: A stream, prosperity so that אֲשֶׁר֙ (’ă·šer) Pronoun - relative Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that they will grant me safe passage יַעֲבִיר֔וּנִי (ya·‘ă·ḇî·rū·nî) Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine plural | first person common singular Strong's 5674: To pass over, through, or by, pass on until עַ֥ד (‘aḏ) Preposition Strong's 5704: As far as, even to, up to, until, while I reach אָב֖וֹא (’ā·ḇō·w) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go Judah. יְהוּדָֽה׃ (yə·hū·ḏāh) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 3063: Judah -- 'praised', a son of Jacob, also the southern kingdom, also four Israelites Links Nehemiah 2:7 NIVNehemiah 2:7 NLT Nehemiah 2:7 ESV Nehemiah 2:7 NASB Nehemiah 2:7 KJV Nehemiah 2:7 BibleApps.com Nehemiah 2:7 Biblia Paralela Nehemiah 2:7 Chinese Bible Nehemiah 2:7 French Bible Nehemiah 2:7 Catholic Bible OT History: Nehemiah 2:7 Moreover I said to the king If (Neh Ne) |
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