Nehemiah 5:18 Meaning and Explanation
“Now that which was prepared for me daily was one ox and six choice sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine: yet for all this required not I the bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy upon this people.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Though a lavish daily provision was prepared at his table, Nehemiah still refused the governor's allowance because the people's burden was heavy.
What Does Nehemiah 5:18 Mean?
Nehemiah details the daily cost of his hospitality: an ox, six choice sheep, fowls, and a store of wine every ten days. Yet for all this expense he still did not require the governor's allowance, and he gives the reason: the bondage was heavy upon this people.
Generosity is measured not only by what is given but by what is refused. Nehemiah bore the burden himself precisely because the people's burden was already crushing. He let their need set the limit on his own claims, which is the very heart of compassion, and the very pattern of the Savior who bore our heavy load so that we might be set free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nehemiah 5:18
What does Nehemiah 5:18 mean?
Though a lavish daily provision was prepared at his table, Nehemiah still refused the governor's allowance because the people's burden was heavy.