Nehemiah 13:23 Meaning
In those days also saw I Jews that had married wives of Ashdod, of Ammon, and of Moab:
Context Explained
21Then I testified against them, and said unto them, Why lodge ye about the wall? if ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no more on the sabbath.
22And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.
23In those days also saw I Jews that had married wives of Ashdod, of Ammon, and of Moab:
24And their children spake half in the speech of Ashdod, and could not speak in the Jews' language, but according to the language of each people.
25And I contended with them, and cursed them, and smote certain of them, and plucked off their hair, and made them swear by God, saying, Ye shall not give your daughters unto their sons, nor take their daughters unto your sons, or for yourselves.
Key Themes
Related Cross References
Ezra 9:1
Ezra also addresses the issue of intermarriage among the Israelites, highlighting a consistent concern in the community.
1 Corinthians 15:33
This verse warns that bad company corrupts good character, echoing Nehemiah's concerns about cultural influence.
Deuteronomy 7:3
This verse commands the Israelites not to intermarry with foreign nations, providing a basis for Nehemiah's actions.
Source: Nehemiah 13:23