The Condition of Jerusalem - Neh. 1:2-3

Nehemiah 1:2‑3  •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 10
When some of Nehemiah’s brothers came to visit Nehemiah in the palace, he took the opportunity to inquire concerning those left of the captivity and of Jerusalem (Neh. 1:22That Hanani, one of my brethren, came, he and certain men of Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem. (Nehemiah 1:2)). One might suppose that a man in such a position as he would have had little concern for the affairs of that poor and distant province of Palestine. Nehemiah, however, was not such a man; having enquired, he was deeply moved at the report (Neh. 1:4). “The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire” (Neh. 1:3).
The walls of an ancient city provided protection, separating the inhabitants from the enemies without. The city gates allowed for controlled access. All who came and went were subjected to the appraisal of the gate keeper. The gate of a city was also the seat of judgment (Ruth 4). The heavenly Jerusalem is characterized by high walls and twelve pearl gates, each with its angelic keeper — it will be a city perfect in separation and perfect in administration (Rev. 21:12).