Nehemiah CommentaryThe Bible Says Commentary on Nehemiah

Nehemiah is widely believed to be the author of the book that bears his name, with portions potentially compiled alongside the narrative of Ezra. The events take place in the mid-fifth century BC, during the reign of King Artaxerxes I, who ruled the Persian Empire from 465-424 BC. Nehemiah served as the cupbearer to Artaxerxes in Susa, the winter capital of the Persian Empire, before returning to Jerusalem to help rebuild it.

The book describes how Jerusalem lay in ruins after the Babylonian exile and the earlier return under Zerubbabel. Upon hearing of the dilapidated walls (Nehemiah 1:3), Nehemiah sought and received permission from Artaxerxes to go to his ancestral homeland to restore the city’s fortifications. This rebuilding effort was met with both encouragement and fierce opposition. Nevertheless, in the face of threats and mockery, the people persisted, trusting in their covenant with the Lord. When demoralizing rumors spread, Nehemiah reminded the people of God’s strength (Nehemiah 4:14) and continued the work with renewed courage.

Beyond the city’s physical restoration, Nehemiah sought to reestablish a faithful community under the Mosaic Law. He encountered social injustice, such as the wealthy oppressing the poor, and demanded that these practices cease (Nehemiah 5:9-13). He also helped reintroduce covenantal worship, encouraging public reading of the Law under Ezra’s leadership. In so doing, Nehemiah and his peers aimed to renew Israel’s identity and obedience, anchoring them in the worship and commandments of God.