Nehemiah's mourning and fasting is a significant event in the biblical narrative, illustrating a profound response to distressing news and a deep commitment to intercessory prayer. This event is recorded in the Book of Nehemiah, which is part of the historical books of the Old Testament. Nehemiah, a Jewish exile serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, receives troubling news about the state of Jerusalem and its inhabitants, prompting a period of mourning, fasting, and prayer.

Context and Background

The events take place during the Persian period, after the Babylonian exile, when some Jews had returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and the city. Despite these efforts, the city remained in a vulnerable state. Nehemiah 1:1-3 sets the scene: "The words of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah: In the month of Kislev, in the twentieth year, while I was in the citadel of Susa, Hanani, one of my brothers, came from Judah with some other men, and I questioned them about the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile, and also about Jerusalem. They said to me, 'Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.'"

Nehemiah's Response

Upon hearing this distressing report, Nehemiah's immediate response is one of deep sorrow and spiritual reflection. Nehemiah 1:4 describes his reaction: "When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven." This response highlights Nehemiah's deep concern for his people and the city of Jerusalem, as well as his reliance on God in times of crisis.

The Nature of Mourning and Fasting

Mourning and fasting in the biblical context often accompany repentance, supplication, and a plea for divine intervention. Nehemiah's actions reflect a heart burdened by the plight of his people and a desire to seek God's guidance and favor. His fasting is not merely abstaining from food but is coupled with earnest prayer, indicating a holistic approach to seeking God's will.

Nehemiah's Prayer

Nehemiah's prayer, recorded in Nehemiah 1:5-11 , is a model of intercessory prayer, characterized by adoration, confession, and petition. He begins by acknowledging God's greatness and faithfulness: "I said: 'O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps His covenant of loving devotion with those who love Him and keep His commandments.'" Nehemiah then confesses the sins of the Israelites, including his own, demonstrating humility and accountability: "I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s house, have committed against You."

Nehemiah's prayer also includes a plea for success and favor in approaching the king, as he seeks permission to return to Jerusalem to aid in its restoration. This prayer underscores Nehemiah's dependence on God for both spiritual and practical needs.

Significance in the Biblical Narrative

Nehemiah's mourning and fasting set the stage for the subsequent events in the book, where he plays a pivotal role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. His actions exemplify leadership rooted in faith, compassion, and a commitment to God's purposes. Nehemiah's response to the news of Jerusalem's desolation serves as an enduring example of how believers can turn to God in times of distress, seeking His guidance and intervention through prayer and fasting.