Nehemiah 4:18

18 Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me.

Nehemiah 4:18 Meaning and Commentary

Nehemiah 4:18

For the builders had everyone his sword girded by his side,
and so builded
Thus accoutred he wrought, and was prepared for either service:

and he that sounded the trumpet was by me;
to give the alarm of war, that everyone might lay aside his work, and prepare for the battle: this officer stood by Nehemiah, that when he found it necessary, might give him orders to sound his trumpet, for the men to gather to him.

Nehemiah 4:18 In-Context

16 So it was, from that time on, that half of my servants worked at construction, while the other half held the spears, the shields, the bows, and wore armor; and the leaders were behind all the house of Judah.

17 Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon.

18 Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me.

19 Then I said to the nobles, the rulers, and the rest of the people, "The work is great and extensive, and we are separated far from one another on the wall.

20 Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us."