Translations
Modern
But I replied, “Should a man like me run away? Should one like me go into the temple to save his own life? I will not go!”
Traditional
And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in.
Literal
And I said, “Should a man like me flee? And who is like me, who would go into the temple and live? I will not go in.”
Latin
Et dixi: Num quisquam similis mei fugit? et quis ut ego ingredietur templum, et vivet? non ingrediar.
Original
Hebrew
English
But I replied, “Should a man like me run away? Should one like me go into the temple to save his own life? I will not go!”
Notes
A good leader does not run from danger but stands as an example for their people.
After solving the financial crisis (see Nehemiah 5), the story shifts back to how those against rebuilding tried to scare or stop Nehemiah.
Theme notes and profiles
Nehemiah Dealing with Conflict Jerusalem Rebuilding of Jerusalem
Glossary
Book of Nehemiah Nehemiah (Person) Postexilic Period Sanballat Shemaiah Tobiah
Topics
Bribery: The False Prophet, Shemaiah Courage: Personal Bravery: Nehemiah, in Refusing to Take Refuge in the Temple Decision: Nehemiah Holy Boldness: Nehemiah Temple: Solomon's for Refuge Tobiah: An Enemy of the Jews in the Time of Nehemiah: Conspires to Injure and Intimidate Nehemiah