Nehemiah 12:38 - The other company of those who gave thanks went to meet them, and I after them, with the half of the people, on the wall, above the tower of the furnaces, even to the wide wall,

Generated Verse: Nehemiah 12:38

What does "Nehemiah 12:38" mean?


This verse describes a part of the dedication ceremony of the rebuilt walls of Jerusalem in Nehemiah 12. Let's break down the meaning:

"The other company of those who gave thanks went to meet them...": After the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt, a grand dedication ceremony was held. The Levites formed two large choirs or processions that would walk along the wall in opposite directions. This refers to the second choir, the one walking in the opposite direction from the first. These were likely Levites leading the people in song and praise to God.
"...and I after them, with the half of the people...": Nehemiah himself, along with half the people of Jerusalem, followed the second choir.
"...on the wall, above the tower of the furnaces...": They walked on top of the rebuilt city wall, specifically passing by the "tower of the furnaces." This landmark was a known point on the wall.
"...even to the wide wall...": Their procession continued until they reached another known section of the wall referred to as the "wide wall." This was likely a section of the wall that was particularly thick or wide, or possibly a place where several walls met.

In summary, the verse describes Nehemiah leading half of the people in a procession on the city wall, following one of the thanksgiving choirs. Their route took them past specific landmarks on the wall, "the tower of the furnaces" and "the wide wall," as part of the dedication ceremony. The imagery emphasizes the joy and gratitude of the people for the completion of the wall and God's provision.

Essentially, this verse paints a picture of a celebratory parade on top of the newly rebuilt walls. The two choirs, each with a large contingent of the population, walked in opposite directions, meeting somewhere, to demonstrate that the entire wall was dedicated to God. It's a scene of thanksgiving, unity, and accomplishment.

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