Tim Maas Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

It seems to me that the primary motivation for expediting the re-building of the city would have been wanting to remove the disgrace represented by its ruined condition, rather than from the alleviation of any fear arising from the situation.

There is evidence throughout the book of the dependence of Nehemiah and his cohorts on God for their success, which would have included (in my opinion) faith from the very inception of the undertaking in His protection for their enterprise. However, the actual building could only be accomplished by the exiles' own actions, and it was essential for the removal of the disgrace and reproach that maximum effort be exerted in that regard

August 06 2023 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Zachary Campbell

The interpretation of Nehemiah 2:17 and the Jews' motivation for rebuilding Jerusalem can be complex and multifaceted. Here are different perspectives to consider:

**Danger:**

* The verse mentions the "broken walls" and "gates burned with fire," suggesting the city was vulnerable to attack and damage. Rebuilding the walls could provide physical protection against potential enemies.
* Nehemiah expresses concern about the "reproach" his people endure, which some interpret as fear of external threats or potential ridicule for their weakened state.

**Disgrace:**

* The broken walls could symbolize a loss of identity, security, and divine favor. Rebuilding them could be seen as reclaiming their dignity and restoring their covenant with God.
* The verse mentions the "disgrace" associated with the city's state. This could refer to feelings of shame or humiliation due to the destruction and their diminished status.

**Beyond Danger and Disgrace:**

* Some interpretations move beyond immediate threats and shame, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding Jerusalem as a fulfillment of God's promise and a restoration of their religious center.
* The project aimed to create a safe and prosperous community, signifying not just defense but also renewal and hope for the future.

Ultimately, the motivation for rebuilding Jerusalem likely involved a combination of factors, encompassing both practical concerns about danger and deeper feelings of disgrace or yearning for restoration. Understanding the historical context and considering different perspectives can help you form your own interpretation of this passage.

It's important to note that the interpretation of religious texts can be subjective and depend on individual beliefs and approaches. 

If you'd like to explore this topic further, I can provide you with additional resources from different scholarly perspectives or religious traditions.

February 01 2024 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report