Während aber solches geschah, war ich nicht zu Jerusalem. Denn im zweiunddreißigsten Jahre Artasastas, des Königs von Babel, war ich zum König gegangen; aber nach einiger Zeit begehrte ich wieder Urlaub vom König.
Was bedeutet das?
Nehemiah explains that he wasn't in Jerusalem during a period because he had to go back to the king in Babylon. He returned to the king for a while before getting permission to come back to Jerusalem.
Für Kinder erklärt
Imagine you're on a long trip to help your friend clean up their house. But then you have to go back home for a while because your parents need you to do something important. Once you finish your task, you get permission to go back to your friend's house to continue your work.
Historischer Hintergrund
Nehemiah wrote this chapter as part of his memoir, likely in the mid-5th century BC. He was addressing the Jews who had returned to Jerusalem from exile, detailing his efforts to rebuild the city and restore religious practices.
Anwendung für heute
Just as Nehemiah had to manage his responsibilities towards the king before returning to his mission, we sometimes have to balance our commitments and priorities before we can fully engage in our personal missions or goals.
Nehemiah had to return to the king in Babylon to fulfill his duties, which delayed his return to Jerusalem.
How long was Nehemiah away from Jerusalem?
The text does not specify the exact duration, but it implies a significant period, at least until the 32nd year of Artaxerxes.
What was Nehemiah's relationship with Artaxerxes?
Nehemiah served Artaxerxes, likely as a trusted official, which allowed him to request permission to return to Jerusalem.
What lessons can we learn from Nehemiah's absence?
We can learn about the importance of balancing our duties and responsibilities with our personal missions and the patience required in waiting for the right time to act.