Nehemiah 10:20

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

Study Bible

Magpiash
The name "Magpiash" appears in the context of a list of signatories to the covenant in Nehemiah 10. This list includes leaders, Levites, and priests who committed themselves to follow God's law. The name itself is of Hebrew origin, and while its exact meaning is not definitively known, it is believed to be a personal name. The inclusion of Magpiash in this covenant signifies the importance of individual commitment to communal spiritual renewal. Historically, this period follows the return from Babylonian exile, a time when the Jewish community was re-establishing its identity and religious practices. The act of signing the covenant was a public declaration of faith and dedication to God's commandments, reflecting a collective desire to restore and uphold the covenantal relationship with God. This moment in Nehemiah underscores the significance of personal and communal responsibility in spiritual revival, reminding believers of the power of unity and commitment in faith.

Meshullam
The name Meshullam means friend or ally, and it is often associated with the idea of being repaid or rewarded.

Hezir
This name is derived from the same as chaziyr, perhaps meaning "protected."

Persons / Places / Events

1. Magpiash
A signatory of the covenant in Nehemiah 10, representing a family or clan committed to following God's law.

2. Meshullam
Another signatory, possibly a leader or head of a family, who pledged to uphold the covenant.

3. Hezir
Also a signatory, likely a priestly or Levitical figure, indicating the involvement of religious leaders in the covenant renewal.

Teaching Points

Commitment to God's Covenant
The act of signing the covenant signifies a deep commitment to live according to God's laws. As believers, we are called to renew our commitment to God regularly.

Community Involvement
The inclusion of various leaders and families in the covenant renewal highlights the importance of community in spiritual growth and accountability.

Role of Leadership
The presence of leaders like Hezir underscores the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide and uphold the community's commitment to God.

Historical Continuity
The covenant renewal in Nehemiah is part of a long tradition of recommitment to God, reminding us of the importance of historical faithfulness and continuity in our spiritual lives.

Personal Reflection
Just as the Israelites reflected on their past and recommitted to God, we should regularly examine our lives and renew our dedication to following Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of signing the covenant in Nehemiah 10 teach us about the importance of public commitment to God in our own lives?

2. How can we, as a community, support each other in maintaining our commitments to God's teachings?

3. In what ways can spiritual leaders today emulate the example of leaders like Hezir in guiding their communities?

4. How does the theme of covenant renewal in Nehemiah 10 relate to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to renew your commitment to God. What steps did you take, and how did it impact your spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Nehemiah 9
The preceding chapter provides context for the covenant renewal, where the Israelites confess their sins and recommit to God's law.

Exodus 24
The covenant renewal in Nehemiah echoes the covenant made at Sinai, where the people of Israel agreed to follow God's commandments.

Deuteronomy 29
This chapter discusses the renewal of the covenant in Moab, highlighting the importance of recommitment to God's laws.

Ezra 10
Similar themes of repentance and covenant renewal are found here, showing the continuity of these themes in post-exilic Israel.