Nehemiah 4:18

18 And each of the builders worked with his sword strapped at his side. But the trumpeter stayed 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 And from that day on, half of my servants did the work while the other half held spears, shields, bows, and armor. The officers stationed themselves behind all the people of Judah

17 who were rebuilding the wall. The laborers who carried materials worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other.

18 And each of the builders worked with his sword strapped at his side. But the trumpeter stayed beside me.

19 Then I said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people: “The work is great and extensive, and we are spread out far from one another along the wall.

20 Wherever you hear the sound of the horn, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us!”