Nehemiah 2:1

Now in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was set before him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had never been sad in his presence,

Study Bible

In the month of Nisan
The month of Nisan corresponds to March-April in the Gregorian calendar. It is significant as the first month of the Jewish ecclesiastical year, marking the beginning of spring and the time of Passover. This timing is crucial as it sets the stage for new beginnings and divine interventions. The mention of Nisan highlights the providential timing of God, aligning Nehemiah's mission with a season of renewal and liberation, reminiscent of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt.

In the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes
This phrase situates the narrative in a specific historical context, around 445 BC. King Artaxerxes I of Persia was a powerful ruler, and his reign is well-documented in historical records. The twentieth year marks a period of stability in his rule, allowing for Nehemiah's request to be considered. This historical anchoring underscores the authenticity of the biblical account and God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms, orchestrating events for His purposes.

When wine was brought before him
Wine in ancient Persia was a symbol of luxury and celebration, often consumed during royal banquets. The act of bringing wine before the king signifies a moment of potential favor and intimacy. Nehemiah's role as cupbearer was one of great trust and responsibility, as he ensured the king's safety from poisoning. This setting provides a backdrop for Nehemiah's boldness, as he approaches the king with a heavy heart, yet with the hope of divine favor.

I took the wine and gave it to the king
Nehemiah's action here is both literal and symbolic. As the cupbearer, he performs his duty with diligence, reflecting his integrity and faithfulness. Symbolically, this act of service represents his readiness to serve God's greater purpose. Nehemiah's faithfulness in small tasks prepares him for the larger mission ahead, illustrating the biblical principle that those who are faithful in little will be entrusted with much (Luke 16:10).

I had never been sad in his presence before
This phrase reveals Nehemiah's emotional state and the gravity of the situation. In ancient royal courts, showing sadness before the king could be seen as disrespectful or dangerous. Nehemiah's previous demeanor of joy and professionalism highlights the depth of his current burden for Jerusalem. His sadness is not just personal but reflects a deep spiritual concern for God's people and city. This moment of vulnerability becomes a catalyst for divine intervention, as God uses Nehemiah's genuine emotion to open the door for his mission to rebuild Jerusalem.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
A Jewish cupbearer to the Persian King Artaxerxes, Nehemiah is a key figure in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. His role as a cupbearer was significant, as it involved a position of trust and influence.

2. King Artaxerxes
The Persian king during Nehemiah's time. His reign is marked by interactions with the Jewish people, including the decree allowing the rebuilding of Jerusalem.

3. Month of Nisan
The first month of the Jewish calendar, corresponding to March-April. This timing is significant as it marks the beginning of spring and the season of Passover, a time of renewal and hope.

4. Wine
Symbolic of joy and celebration, wine in this context also represents Nehemiah's duties and the trust placed in him by the king.

5. Sadness in the King's Presence
Nehemiah's emotional state is noteworthy because it was dangerous to appear sad before the king, indicating the depth of his concern for Jerusalem.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
Nehemiah's opportunity to speak to the king came in God's perfect timing. We should trust that God orchestrates events in our lives according to His divine schedule.

Courage in Adversity
Nehemiah's willingness to show his true emotions before the king demonstrates courage. We are called to be honest and courageous in our faith, even when it involves risk.

Prayerful Preparation
Before approaching the king, Nehemiah had spent time in prayer and fasting (Nehemiah 1:4). This teaches us the importance of preparing our hearts through prayer before taking action.

God's Sovereignty Over Leaders
The favorable response of King Artaxerxes to Nehemiah's request shows God's sovereignty over earthly rulers. We can trust that God can move the hearts of leaders for His purposes.

Role of Influence
Nehemiah's position as a cupbearer gave him unique access to the king. We should recognize and utilize the positions and influence God has given us to further His kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's role as a cupbearer influence his ability to impact the rebuilding of Jerusalem?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in the timing of events in Nehemiah 2:1, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

3. What risks did Nehemiah face by showing sadness before the king, and how can we apply his courage to our own situations where we must stand for our beliefs?

4. How does Nehemiah's approach to prayer and preparation before speaking to the king serve as a model for us in making important decisions?

5. Reflect on a time when you have seen God's sovereignty at work in the actions of leaders or authorities. How does this reinforce your trust in God's control over world events?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 7
Provides background on King Artaxerxes' favorable policies towards the Jews, setting the stage for Nehemiah's mission.

Proverbs 21:1
Illustrates how God can influence the hearts of kings, relevant to Nehemiah's interaction with Artaxerxes.

Esther 4:11
Highlights the risk of appearing sad or distressed before a Persian king, similar to Nehemiah's situation.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, paralleling Nehemiah's prayerful approach before speaking to the king.