Nehemiah 13:24 Meaning
And 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.
Context Explained
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.
26Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no king like him, who was beloved of his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did outlandish women cause to sin.
Key Themes
Related Cross References
Acts 2:6
The diverse languages spoken at Pentecost contrast with the loss of Jewish language among Nehemiah's people.
Romans 12:2
This verse encourages believers not to conform to the patterns of this world, similar to Nehemiah's call for cultural integrity.
Genesis 11:7
The confusion of languages at Babel parallels the cultural divisions seen in Nehemiah's time.
Source: Nehemiah 13:24