Nehemiah 11:16 - and Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who had the oversight of the outward business of God’s house;

Generated Verse: Nehemiah 11:16

What does "Nehemiah 11:16" mean?


This verse from Nehemiah 11:16 is describing the administrative structure in place after the rebuilding of Jerusalem. It identifies two Levites, Shabbethai and Jozabad, who held important leadership positions:

Shabbethai and Jozabad: These were specific individuals with the names Shabbethai and Jozabad.
Chiefs of the Levites: This indicates that they were not just any Levites, but leaders among them. The Levites were a tribe dedicated to religious service and assisting the priests in the temple.
Who had the oversight of the outward business of God's house: This is the key part. It means they were responsible for the practical, day-to-day operations related to the Temple. This could include managing supplies, overseeing construction and maintenance, organizing personnel (other than priestly duties), and handling financial matters related to the temple. In essence, they were responsible for the logistics and administration needed to keep the Temple running smoothly. "Outward business" likely means things happening outside of the most holy areas and sacred rituals that were the domain of the priests.

In simple terms, Shabbethai and Jozabad were high-ranking Levites in charge of the practical management and logistical aspects of the Temple's operations.

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