Nehemiah 2:8 Meaning and Explanation
“And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Nehemiah requests timber for the gates, wall, and his own dwelling, and credits the king's full grant to the good hand of God.
What Does Nehemiah 2:8 Mean?
Nehemiah names a third request, a letter to Asaph, keeper of the royal forest, to supply timber for the city gates, the wall, and his own house. His detailed knowledge of what the rebuilding will require shows how thoroughly he has thought and prayed the plan through. The king grants every part.
The verse turns at its close to give the true explanation: according to the good hand of my God upon me. Nehemiah does not credit his own eloquence or the king's mood, but the gracious providence of God. When favor and provision come, the faithful look past the human channel to the divine Giver, who works through kings and keepers alike to accomplish His purposes.
Nehemiah 2:8 in the Original Language
yad (יָד), 'hand' -- a hand, often a figure for power, care, or favor; here God's good hand at work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nehemiah 2:8
What does Nehemiah 2:8 mean?
Nehemiah requests timber for the gates, wall, and his own dwelling, and credits the king's full grant to the good hand of God.