Book of Nehemiah - Chapter 2 - Verse 13

This verse from the book of Nehemiah describes a scene where the author, Nehemiah, ventures out at night to inspect the condition of the walls and gates of Jerusalem. By going out under the cover of darkness, Nehemiah was able to secretly assess the damage that had been done to the city's defenses. The mention of the "gate of the valley" indicates a specific location where Nehemiah began his inspection. The reference to the "dragon well" and "dung port" suggests that he went to various parts of the city to get a comprehensive view of the destruction that had taken place. The walls of Jerusalem were in a state of disrepair, with many sections broken down, and the gates had been consumed by fire, leaving the city vulnerable to attack. This passage sets the stage for Nehemiah's eventual mission to rebuild and restore the walls of Jerusalem, showing his dedication to the task despite the challenges he faced.

The theological interpretation of this verse points to the imagery of destruction and devastation that is seen in the broken down walls and consumed gates of Jerusalem. The mention of going out by night signifies a time of vulnerability and darkness, highlighting the dire situation of the city. The gate of the valley, dragon well, and dung port all hold symbolic significance - the gate representing entrance and exit, the well representing a source of sustenance, and the port representing filth and impurity. This verse can be viewed as a metaphor for the spiritual state of Jerusalem, which has been left defenseless and desolate due to the sins of its people. It serves as a warning of the consequences of neglecting God's commands and straying from His will. Through word studies, the various elements mentioned in the verse can be further explored to unveil deeper layers of meaning and significance, providing insight into the historical context and cultural significance of the imagery used.