Nehemiah 9:35

35 Even when they ruled their own kingdom, even when you prospered them greatly, in the great, rich land you gave them, they did not serve you; nor did they turn from their wicked deeds.

Nehemiah 9:35 Meaning and Commentary

Nehemiah 9:35

For they have not served thee in their kingdom
When in it, whether of Israel or of Judah, and when in the most flourishing circumstances:

and in thy great goodness that thou gavest them;
amidst all the prosperity and affluence of good things they enjoyed, which was an obligation upon them to serve the Lord;

and in the large and fat land which thou gavest before them;
the land of Canaan, a land flowing with milk, which lay open for them, their enemies being driven out before them, see ( Nehemiah 9:25 ) ,

neither turned they from their wicked works;
their idolatries more especially.

Nehemiah 9:35 In-Context

33 There is no question that you are just in all that has come upon us; for you have treated us fairly. It is we who have acted wickedly.

34 Our kings, our leaders, our cohanim and ancestors did not keep your Torah, pay attention to your mitzvot or heed the warnings you gave them.

35 Even when they ruled their own kingdom, even when you prospered them greatly, in the great, rich land you gave them, they did not serve you; nor did they turn from their wicked deeds.

36 "'So here we are today, slaves. Yes, in the land you gave our ancestors, so that they could eat what it produces and enjoy its good 1144 here we are in it, slaves!

37 Its rich yield now goes to the kings you have set over us because of our sins; they have power over our bodies, they can do what they please to our livestock, and we are in great distress!