What is the definition of Nehemiah 2:13?

And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire.

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Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 2:13. It’s a really powerful and dramatic description of what happened back in ancient Jerusalem. Here's a simple explanation:
The Basic Story:
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Nehemiah was a leader:
This verse tells us about a man named Nehemiah, who was returning to Jerusalem after a long period of time – likely during a time of great trouble and rebuilding. 💎
He saw the city in terrible condition:
He went out at night, and what he saw shocked him. The walls of Jerusalem were broken down! The gates (the entrances to the city) had been consumed by fire.
What Does It Mean?
It’s a really strong image of devastation. Here's a breakdown of what it suggests: 💎
“Broken down”:
This means the walls were damaged and crumbling. They weren't just a little bit damaged; they were severely weakened. 💎
"Consumed with fire":
This is the most significant part. The fire wasn’t just a small blaze – it was a huge, intense wave of flames that completely destroyed the walls!
The Significance & Possible Interpretation:
This verse paints a picture of deep despair and a desperate need for restoration. It suggests: 💎
A Lost City:
Jerusalem had been under siege and destruction for a long time. This event was a major turning point. 💎
God’s Wrath:
The fire can be interpreted as God's judgment on the city, reflecting his anger at the wickedness and rebellion of the people. 💎
Hope for Renewal:
While the scene is horrific, it also points to hope! Nehemiah's actions were a demonstration of his commitment to rebuilding and restoring Jerusalem – demonstrating that God’s plan for his people could be fulfilled even after great loss.
In short, this verse describes a catastrophic event where the walls of Jerusalem were destroyed by fire, highlighting a moment of profound devastation and a call to rebuild.
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Do you want me to:
💎 Explain another part of the story in more detail? 💎 Discuss what biblical context might help us understand this event better?