Nehemiah 3 3

Nehemiah 3:3 kjv

But the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build, who also laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.

Nehemiah 3:3 nkjv

Also the sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate; they laid its beams and hung its doors with its bolts and bars.

Nehemiah 3:3 niv

The Fish Gate was rebuilt by the sons of Hassenaah. They laid its beams and put its doors and bolts and bars in place.

Nehemiah 3:3 esv

The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars.

Nehemiah 3:3 nlt

The Fish Gate was built by the sons of Hassenaah. They laid the beams, set up its doors, and installed its bolts and bars.

Nehemiah 3 verses

Nehemiah 3 3 Meaning

Nehemiah 3:3 details the specific section of Jerusalem's wall that the "sons of Hassenaah" rebuilt: the Fish Gate. This reconstruction involved not just the basic structure, but also the comprehensive installation of all necessary components for functionality and security—including the foundational beams, the operative doors, and the protective locks and bars. It highlights their dedicated and thorough contribution to the overall restoration effort.

Nehemiah 3 3 Context

Nehemiah chapter 3 provides a detailed account of the concerted effort to rebuild the walls and gates of Jerusalem after the return from Babylonian exile. Following Nehemiah's passionate appeal and the king's authorization (Neh 2), the people wholeheartedly committed to the daunting task. The chapter systematically lists various individuals, families, and professional groups, along with the specific sections of the wall and gates they were responsible for. This meticulous record highlights the division of labor, communal spirit, and widespread dedication to restoring Jerusalem's security and dignity. Nehemiah 3:3 specifically names "the sons of Hassenaah" and their contribution to a vital point of entry, illustrating the granular level of participation in this divinely-ordained endeavor.

Nehemiah 3 3 Word Analysis

• The Fish Gate (שַׁעַר הַדָּגִים - Sha'ar HaDagim):

  • Sha'ar (שַׁעַר) means "gate" or "entrance."
  • HaDagim (הַדָּגִים) is the plural definite form of dag (דָּג), meaning "fish."
  • This gate, likely located on the north or northwestern side of Jerusalem, served as the primary entry point for fish brought into the city, likely from the Mediterranean coast or the Sea of Galilee, sold at the nearby fish market (Zeph 1:10). Its rebuilding signified the restoration of crucial economic activity and accessibility. As a key entrance, its fortification was paramount for security and the flow of trade.

• also did:

  • This phrase subtly connects this specific work team and their section of the wall with the broader, collective enterprise of rebuilding. It emphasizes that no one worked in isolation, but each contributed their part to the larger, unified goal led by Nehemiah. It points to a communal effort, mirroring the idea of the body of Christ with many members.

• the sons of Hassenaah (בְּנֵי הַסְּנָאָה - Bene HaSena'ah):

  • Bene (בְּנֵי) means "sons of" or "descendants of," indicating a family, clan, or guild.
  • Hassenaah (הַסְּנָאָה) is likely a clan name or perhaps a place of origin, possibly deriving from a word meaning "thorny" or "bushy." This precise naming identifies specific individuals or groups responsible, underscoring accountability and the granular planning of the work. It implies local residence or expertise. The detailed roster in Nehemiah highlights the human commitment and organizational skill required for such a large-scale project.

• build (בָּנוּ - banu):

  • This verb emphasizes the active construction and physical labor involved in bringing the gate from disrepair to full functionality. It is the central action of the chapter, highlighting the Israelites' diligent obedience to Nehemiah's charge.

• who laid the beams thereof (וַיְקָרוּ אֹתָהּ קֹרוֹתֶיהָ - vayqarū otāh qorotēhā):

  • Qorot (קֹרוֹת) refers to "beams" or "rafters," substantial timbers used for structural support, particularly for gateframes or roofs. "Laying the beams" indicates foundational work—building the strong, weighty framework that would support the heavy gate doors. It reflects thorough and proper construction, essential for a city's main defense points. This signifies more than a cosmetic repair; it was a full reconstruction for long-term integrity.

• and set up the doors thereof (וַיַּעֲמִידוּ דַלְתֹתֶיהָ - vay'amiḍu dal'totēhā):

  • Daltot (דַלְתֹת) are "doors" or "leaves" of a gate. "Setting up" means installing or raising them into place within the newly constructed framework. The doors were functional components, controlling entry and exit, vital for security and civic life. The act of installing them meant restoring normal operations to the city.

• the locks thereof (וּמַנְעֻלֶיהָ - ūman‘ulehā):

  • Man'ul (מַנְעֻל) refers to "bolts" or "locks." These were crucial for securing the gates against unauthorized entry. In ancient times, locks often involved complex wooden or metal mechanisms. Their inclusion highlights a commitment to complete security, making the gate impregnable during times of threat. This signifies careful attention to defensive details.

• and the bars thereof (וּבְרִיחֶיהָ - ūverīḥehā):

  • Berīah (בְרִיחַ) denotes a "bar" or "crossbar," typically a long, sturdy wooden or metal beam fitted across the inside of a gate's doors to secure them firmly, especially at night or during siege. The addition of bars provided an additional, robust layer of security beyond the locks, making the gate nearly impenetrable. This indicates a high level of preparedness and diligence in fortification.

Nehemiah 3 3 Bonus section

The rebuilding project detailed in Nehemiah chapter 3 underscores the principle of divine leading coupled with human diligence. Each named individual or group, like the sons of Hassenaah, undertook a specific task, yet their efforts converged to complete a singular, monumental wall. This cooperative work ethic reflects the spiritual truth that God builds His kingdom through the diversified contributions of many, each faithful in their assigned portion. The precision in specifying "beams, doors, locks, and bars" also emphasizes God's regard for detail and thoroughness in our work, especially in matters pertaining to His glory and the welfare of His people. This complete restoration stands in stark contrast to earlier failures and the opposition faced by the returned exiles, illustrating that persistence in obedience ultimately brings about God's intended purposes for His people.

Nehemiah 3 3 Commentary

Nehemiah 3:3 succinctly captures the methodical and comprehensive approach taken in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall. The mention of the Fish Gate, a vital commercial entrance, signifies the restoration not just of military defense but also of civic and economic life. The "sons of Hassenaah" represent the widespread participation and the allocation of specific tasks, demonstrating that every individual and group played a crucial role in the collective effort. The detailed listing of "beams, doors, locks, and bars" emphasizes a thorough, uncompromising reconstruction. It wasn't a superficial patch-up, but a full restoration of integrity and security. This diligence reflects an understanding that true revival requires complete and proper foundations. This verse, like the rest of Nehemiah 3, serves as an example of dedicated teamwork, divine enablement, and meticulous work ethic in service of God's purposes, transforming vulnerability into strength and despair into hope through sustained effort.