Author

Nehemiah

Written

~430–420 BC

Testament

Old Testament

Chapters

13

Key Theme

Rebuilding Jerusalem's walls and renewing the covenant community.

Written For

The post-exilic community of Israel

Introduction of Nehemiah

Nehemiah is named after its central character, a Jewish cupbearer to the Persian king who becomes a bold leader of reconstruction. Written in the mid-5th century BC, likely by Nehemiah himself or with Ezra, the book continues the story of the returned exiles. Alongside Ezra the scribe, Nehemiah tackles the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls while confronting internal corruption and external threats. What unfolds is a gripping account of leadership, prayer, and perseverance under pressure. In the tension between grand vision and gritty opposition, the book shows what it takes for a community to rebuild not just their city, but their identity.