Nehemiah 11:1
leaders <08269> [the rulers.]
cast lots <01486 05307> [cast lots.]
Jerusalem certainly had many inhabitants at this time, but not sufficient to preserve the city, which was now encompassed with a wall, the building of which was going on fast. Nehemiah, therefore, obliged one-tenth of the country people to come and dwell in it, that the population might be sufficient for the defence of the city. Some volunteered their services, which was at that time considered a sacrifice to patriotism; as Jerusalem then afforded very few advantages, and was a place of considerable danger: hence "the people blessed them that willingly offered themselves."
one ..... ten <0259 06235> [one of ten.]
holy <06944> [the holy.]
Nehemiah 11:3
leaders <07218> [Now.]
There is a good deal of difference between this enumeration and that in Chronicles; as this comprehends not only those who came first with Zerubbabel, but also those who came with Ezra and Nehemiah: see on 1 Ch 9:18.
leaders <07218> [the chief.]
Israelites <03478> [Israel.]
temple attendants <05411> [Nethinims.]
sons <01121> [the children.]
