Nehemiah 10:20

What does Nehemiah 10:20 mean?

A plain-English look at Nehemiah 10:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Nehemiah 10:20 means

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir show the covenant’s reach across families that likely differ in size and influence. Their sealing adds further legitimacy to the commitments soon to be detailed. Leaders from varied backgrounds recognize the same authority of God’s law and the same need for reform. This unity in submission prepares the people to embrace practices that require collective cooperation—like sabbatical release and systematic provision for the temple’s needs.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Megphias, Mosollam, Hazir,

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

Context

The list of chiefs continues to fill out a representative spectrum ahead of the community-wide vows. By spacing the names across several verses, the text slows the reader to notice the breadth of participation. This measured pace underscores that covenant renewal is deliberate, not impulsive. Soon the final names will be given, and the chapter will turn to the rest of the people and the covenant’s terms.

v.19Hariph, Anathoth, Nobai,

v.20This passage

v.21Meshezabel, Zadok, Jaddua,

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