Why read this book?
If you’ve ever faced an overwhelming task or felt inadequate to meet a challenge, you’ll be able to identify with Nehemiah. He struggled with issues still with us today: motivation, fatigue and criticism. But this book also offers inspiration and vision. Without neglecting the practical, Nehemiah shows how to tackle God’s difficult assignments and survive both opposition and apathy.
Who wrote this book?
Probably the writer of Ezra (which was originally combined with Nehemiah) who many think also wrote 1 and 2 Chronicles. He likely drew from Nehemiah’s memoirs and from census records.
What were the historical circumstances surrounding it?
The Babylonians conquered Israel in 586 B.C. Persia, in turn, conquered Babylon (539 B.C.) and later allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem. By 445 B.C., however, the challenges of rebuilding their homeland had demoralized them. Under Zerubbabel, the returned exiles had rebuilt the temple, but the walls of the city remained in rubble.
Why was it written?
To remind God’s people of their spiritual heritage and to keep them from becoming careless toward the Lord.
When was it written?
The incidents occurred between 444 and 432 B.C. The book was probably compiled about 430 B.C., though no one knows for sure.
(From the Quest Study Bible)
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