Nehemiah 5:5

We and our children are just like our countrymen and their children, yet we are subjecting our sons and daughters to slavery. Some of our daughters are already enslaved, but we are powerless to redeem them because our fields and vineyards belong to others."

Study Bible

We and our children
This phrase emphasizes the shared identity and common humanity among the Israelites. In Hebrew, the word for "children" (בָּנִים, banim) often signifies not just biological offspring but also descendants and members of a community. This highlights the collective struggle and unity among the people, reminding us of the importance of community and shared burdens in the body of Christ.

are just like our countrymen and their children
Here, the phrase underscores equality and shared status among the Israelites. The Hebrew term for "countrymen" (אָחִים, achim) can also mean "brothers," indicating a familial bond. This reflects the biblical principle that all believers are equal before God, as seen in Galatians 3:28, where there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for all are one in Christ Jesus.

yet we are subjecting our sons and daughters to slavery
The word "subjecting" (כָּבַשׁ, kavash) in Hebrew implies subjugation or bringing under control. This phrase reveals the tragic irony and moral conflict faced by the Israelites, who are forced to enslave their own children due to economic hardship. It serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive power of sin and injustice, and the need for God's intervention and righteousness.

Some of our daughters have already been enslaved
The mention of daughters specifically highlights the vulnerability and exploitation of the most defenseless members of society. In ancient times, daughters were often more susceptible to being sold into servitude. This calls to mind the biblical mandate to protect and care for the vulnerable, as seen in James 1:27, which urges believers to look after orphans and widows in their distress.

but we are powerless
The Hebrew word for "powerless" (אֵין, ein) conveys a sense of lacking or absence. This reflects the Israelites' helplessness in the face of overwhelming economic and social pressures. It serves as a reminder of the human condition apart from God's strength, and the need to rely on His power and provision, as echoed in Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

because our fields and vineyards belong to others
This phrase highlights the loss of economic independence and the resulting bondage. In ancient Israel, fields and vineyards were vital for sustenance and livelihood. The loss of these resources to others signifies a deeper spiritual and social crisis, reminding us of the importance of stewardship and the dangers of materialism. It calls believers to trust in God's provision and to seek justice and restoration, as advocated in Micah 6:8, to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah is a Jewish leader who is deeply concerned about the welfare of his people and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.

2. Jewish People
The community of Israelites who have returned from exile and are struggling with economic hardship and social injustice.

3. Jerusalem
The city where these events take place, significant as the spiritual and political center for the Jewish people.

4. Nobles and Officials
The wealthy and influential members of the Jewish community who are exploiting their fellow Israelites through usury and enslavement.

5. Slavery and Debt
The economic and social crisis faced by the Jewish people, where they are forced to sell their children into slavery due to overwhelming debt.

Teaching Points

Compassion and Justice
Nehemiah 5:5 highlights the need for compassion and justice within the community. Believers are called to care for one another and ensure that no one is oppressed or exploited.

Economic Integrity
The passage challenges us to examine our own economic practices and ensure they align with biblical principles of fairness and generosity.

Community Responsibility
The plight of the Israelites reminds us of our responsibility to support and uplift those in our community who are struggling, rather than taking advantage of their misfortune.

God's Heart for Freedom
The enslavement of children in this passage contrasts with God's desire for His people to live in freedom. We are reminded to advocate for the freedom and dignity of all individuals.

Repentance and Restoration
Nehemiah's response to this crisis later in the chapter calls for repentance and restoration, encouraging us to seek reconciliation and right relationships within our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah 5:5 reflect the broader social and economic issues faced by the Jewish community in Jerusalem? How can we relate this to modern-day issues of economic injustice?

2. In what ways does the treatment of debt and slavery in Nehemiah 5:5 connect with the laws given in Exodus, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy? How do these connections inform our understanding of biblical justice?

3. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our financial dealings reflect the principles of fairness and compassion found in Scripture?

4. How can we, as a church community, support those who are facing economic hardship and prevent exploitation within our own circles?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced economic injustice. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in light of Nehemiah 5:5 and related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 21:2-11
Discusses the laws regarding Hebrew slaves, providing a backdrop to the issue of slavery among the Israelites.

Leviticus 25:39-43
Offers guidance on how Israelites should treat their fellow countrymen who become poor and sell themselves into servitude, emphasizing compassion and fair treatment.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15
Commands the release of Hebrew slaves in the seventh year, highlighting God's desire for freedom and restoration.

Proverbs 22:7
States that the borrower is servant to the lender, illustrating the power dynamics at play in Nehemiah 5:5.