Nehemiah 13:5 Meaning and Explanation
“And he had prepared for him a great chamber, where aforetime they laid the meat offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the corn, the new wine, and the oil, which was commanded to be given to the Levites, and the singers, and the porters; and the offerings of the priests.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Eliashib turned a great storeroom, once used for the offerings and tithes meant for the Levites, into private quarters for Tobiah.
What Does Nehemiah 13:5 Mean?
The room given to Tobiah was no minor closet but a large chamber that had held the offerings, frankincense, sacred vessels, and the tithes set apart by command for the Levites, singers, and gatekeepers who served at the temple.
Space dedicated to God and to those who served Him had been handed to an enemy of His work. When what belongs to the Lord is quietly diverted, His ministers and His worship suffer. The verse calls God's people to guard with care the things devoted to Him, remembering that the temple of God is meant for His honor alone.
Nehemiah 13:5 in the Original Language
maaser (מַעֲשֵׂר), 'tithe' -- the tenth set apart for God and for those who served at His house.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nehemiah 13:5
What does Nehemiah 13:5 mean?
Eliashib turned a great storeroom, once used for the offerings and tithes meant for the Levites, into private quarters for Tobiah.