Nehemiah 10:8
What does Nehemiah 10:8 mean?
A plain-English look at Nehemiah 10:8 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Nehemiah 10:8 means
Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah conclude the named priests, and the text states plainly, “these were the priests.” This summary marks a deliberate completeness: a sufficiently broad priestly representation has bound itself to the covenant. The closure reassures the community that their sacrificial and teaching leaders stand together. With priests committed, the remaining vows about worship, atonement, and holy days have reliable stewards. The naming also honors those who step forward, reminding us that God’s reforms often begin with leaders who accept public accountability.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah; these were the priests.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah: these were the priests.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah; these were the priests.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah; these were the priests.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah; these <FI>are<Fi> the priests.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Maazia, Belgia, Semeia: these were priests.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah: these were the priests.
Context
With the priestly section wrapped, the chapter will now list Levites, then chiefs of the people, and finally describe the specific vows. The order moves from those closest to the altar outward to the broader community. This framing helps the reader recognize that Israel’s renewed obedience is not leaderless enthusiasm; it is structured service, supported by those who know the law and handle holy things. The foundation is laid for temple-related commitments to follow.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Ezra 10:21
And of the sons of Harim: Maaseiah, and Elijah, and Shemaiah, and Jehiel, and Uzziah.
- Nehemiah 12:5
Mijamin, Maadiah, Bilgah,
- Nehemiah 3:29
After them repaired Zadok the son of Immer over against his own house. And after him repaired Shemaiah the son of Shecaniah, the keeper of the east gate.
- Nehemiah 12:18
of Bilgah, Shammua; of Shemaiah, Jehonathan;
- Nehemiah 12:42
and Maaseiah, and Shemaiah, and Eleazar, and Uzzi, and Jehohanan, and Malchijah, and Elam, and Ezer. And the singers sang loud, with Jezrahiah their overseer.
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