Question 1

Why did they cast lots to bring one in ten to live in Jerusalem?

Accepted Answer

Casting lots was a way of choosing fairly who would move into Jerusalem when many people preferred to stay in their own towns. Living in the city meant more danger from enemies, stricter expectations, and less chance to farm and trade. By choosing one in ten by lot, everyone shared the load, and it was clear that God directed the choice. This kept Jerusalem from staying empty and made sure the holy city had enough people to protect it and support the worship in the temple.

Question 2

Why were the people who willingly offered to live in Jerusalem blessed?

Accepted Answer

Those who offered themselves to live in Jerusalem chose a harder path for the good of the whole community. They left comfort and safety to help fill the holy city, support the temple, and stand closer to danger if enemies attacked. The people blessed them because they saw this as a loving, unselfish act. Their choice showed love for God’s city and for their brothers and sisters. It reminds us that God’s people honor those who put the needs of the community ahead of their own ease.

Question 3

Who were the priests and Levites mentioned in this passage?

Accepted Answer

The priests and Levites here are families set apart for service in God’s house. Priests like Seraiah and Jedaiah were responsible for offerings and leading worship. Levites such as Shemaiah, Shabbethai, Jozabad, and Mattaniah handled teaching, music, and the outward work of the temple, including care of its property and daily needs. Some led thanksgiving in prayer and song, some oversaw practical tasks, and others guarded the gates. Their presence shows that worship and teaching were at the center of life in the restored city.

Question 4

What does this long list of names and towns teach about community life?

Accepted Answer

The list of names and towns shows that restoring the city and the land was a shared project. Different tribes, families, and roles all had their place: rulers in the city, priests and Levites in the temple, gatekeepers, singers, and many families in the surrounding villages. Some were known for courage, some for leadership, some for service. No one person or group did everything. It paints a picture of a body where each part has its own task, and the whole people work together so worship can continue and everyone is cared for.

Question 5

What was the job of those over the outward business of the house of God?

Accepted Answer

Those over the outward business of the house of God took care of the practical, day-to-day matters that made worship possible. They would have dealt with supplies, buildings, fields, and any work that kept the temple running smoothly. While others focused on sacrifices, teaching, and music, these leaders handled the tasks that were less visible but still very necessary. This shows that serving God includes both spiritual acts like prayer and very ordinary work, and both kinds of service matter in his sight.

Question 6

Who were the Nethinim and what was their role in this passage?

Accepted Answer

The Nethinim were temple servants who helped with various tasks around God’s house. In this passage they are said to live in Ophel, a part of Jerusalem, with Ziha and Gispa set over them. Their work likely included cleaning, carrying wood and water, and other needed jobs that supported the priests and Levites. Though their role might seem lowly, they were given a set place in the city and in the list, showing that their service was recognized as part of the worship and life of God’s people.

Question 7

Why are valiant men and overseers mentioned among those who lived in Jerusalem?

Accepted Answer

Valiant men and overseers are mentioned because the city needed both protection and wise guidance. The brave men were ready to defend Jerusalem from enemies, since the city was surrounded by hostile groups. Overseers like Joel and Judah son of Senuah helped manage affairs in the city and people’s daily lives. Together, they show that rebuilding the community was not just about living there, but about safety, order, and care. A restored city needed strong hearts and steady hands as well as walls and houses.

Question 8

How were city life and country life balanced for God’s people here?

Accepted Answer

The passage explains that while some families lived in Jerusalem, many others stayed in their own towns across Judah and Benjamin. This meant the holy city was filled enough to support worship and leadership, but the countryside was not emptied. Fields still needed tending, villages still needed people, and family inheritances mattered. The balance shows wise planning: God’s people could honor the city where the temple stood while also keeping everyday life and work going in the wider land they had been given.

Question 9

How can the choices in this passage shape how I think about serving in my church or community?

Accepted Answer

This passage shows people taking on different roles, some more visible, some hidden, and some costly. Those who moved into Jerusalem accepted risk and hardship for the good of others. Priests, singers, gatekeepers, and workers all served in their own ways. This can help you see that faithful service is not about comfort or fame, but about being willing to take the place God gives you. Whether you serve in practical tasks, in prayer, in leading, or in quiet support, God uses such service to build up his people.

Nehemiah 11:1

And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to dwell in other cities.

Jerusalem’s New Settlers

Residents Outside Jerusalem

Jerusalem’s New Settlers

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Nehemiah 11:1

And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to dwell in other cities.

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Jerusalem’s New Settlers

Residents Outside Jerusalem

Jerusalem’s New Settlers

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