Nehemiah

Jewish cupbearer to the Persian King Artaxerxes I who received permission to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls. When his brother Hanani brought news that the returned exiles lived in disgrace with Jerusalem’s walls broken down, Nehemiah wept, fasted, and prayed (Nehemiah 1). Granted leave by the king, he led the rebuilding effort despite fierce opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem. The walls were completed in an astonishing 52 days (Nehemiah 6:15). Appointed governor of Judah, Nehemiah instituted social reforms—canceling debts, ensuring Sabbath observance, and opposing intermarriage. Working alongside Ezra the priest, he helped reestablish Jewish identity and covenant faithfulness among the returned exiles.