Nehemiah 11:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, was the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer: and Bakbukiah the second among his brethren, and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Mattaniah, of the line of Asaph, led the thanksgiving in prayer, with Bakbukiah and Abda among the temple singers.
What Does Nehemiah 11:17 Mean?
This verse names the leaders of temple music and praise. Mattaniah, descended from Asaph the famous singer of David's day, was the principal in beginning the thanksgiving in prayer, supported by Bakbukiah and Abda, the latter from the line of Jeduthun, another of David's worship leaders.
Praise was no afterthought in the restored city; it had its appointed leaders and its honored heritage reaching back generations. To begin the thanksgiving was to lift the whole congregation toward God in gratitude, a reminder that worship gives voice to a thankful heart.
Nehemiah 11:17 in the Original Language
todah (תּוֹדָה), 'thanksgiving' -- grateful praise or a thank offering lifted to God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nehemiah 11:17
What does Nehemiah 11:17 mean?
Mattaniah, of the line of Asaph, led the thanksgiving in prayer, with Bakbukiah and Abda among the temple singers.