Nehemiah 5:13

Ndebele Bible - 2010

Ngasengithintitha ithangazi lami.

What Does This Mean?

Nehemiah is speaking and shaking his lap to make a promise. He says that if anyone doesn't keep this promise, God will make sure they lose everything. The people agreed and praised God, and they followed through with the promise.

Explained for Children

Imagine Nehemiah is shaking his lap like a magic trick and saying, 'If anyone breaks this promise, may they lose everything they have, just like I'm shaking everything out of my lap.' Everyone agreed and promised to do their best to keep the promise.

Historical Background

Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the Persian king, wrote this book around 445-420 BCE. He returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the city walls and restore order. This verse shows his commitment to fair treatment of the people and his reliance on God's justice.

Living It Out Today

Imagine you're on a team project and you make a promise to your team to get your part done. If you don't follow through, the whole project could fail. Nehemiah's promise shows the importance of keeping our commitments.

Topics

• commitment
• justice
• promise-keeping
• faith
• community
• leadership

Related Verses

• Leviticus 26:33
• Ezra 10:3
• Matthew 5:33-37
• Acts 5:1-11
• James 5:12

Recommended Reading

Commentary Nehemiah Commentaries → Get This Bible Ndebele Bible - Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of shaking the lap?

Shaking the lap is a symbolic act that Nehemiah uses to emphasize the gravity of the promise. It signifies a solemn oath and the potential consequences of breaking it.

How did the people react to Nehemiah's promise?

The people responded with 'Amen,' showing their agreement and commitment to follow through with the promise. They also praised the Lord, indicating their faith and trust in God.

What kind of promise was Nehemiah making?

Nehemiah was likely making a promise related to justice and fair treatment of the people, particularly concerning debts and loans. The promise reflects a commitment to moral and ethical standards.

What can we learn from Nehemiah's leadership style?

From Nehemiah, we learn the importance of leadership that is grounded in faith and integrity. His example shows how leaders should commit to their promises and hold themselves accountable to the community.