Ze antwoordden: "Degenen die daar in het gewest zijn overgebleven en aan de ballingschap zijn ontkomen, zijn er ellendig aan toe en worden door iedereen veracht. In de muren van Jeruzalem zijn grote bressen geslagen en de poortdeuren zijn verbrand."
Wat betekent dit?
Nehemiah's friends tell him that the people who returned from exile in Jerusalem are suffering greatly. They also mention that the city's wall and gates, which are important for protection, are destroyed. The message highlights the dire situation in Jerusalem and the need for rebuilding.
Uitgelegd voor kinderen
Imagine you and your friends built a fort in the backyard. But one day, you find out that the fort was destroyed, and your friends are sad. This is similar to what happened to the people of Jerusalem. They need help to rebuild their home.
Historische achtergrond
Nehemiah 1 was written by Nehemiah, a Persian official, around 445 BC. The audience is the Jews who were exiled and have returned to Jerusalem. The cultural setting is one of post-exile struggle and rebuilding.
Toepassing voor vandaag
In a modern scenario, if your community is facing difficulties such as poverty or lack of resources, this verse encourages you to take action and help rebuild the community, just as Nehemiah did for Jerusalem.