Nehemiah 2:17

Nehemiah's appeal. It is implied that Nehemiah having satisfied himself as to the practicability of his plan called an assembly of those mentioned in the previous verse. How soon after his nocturnal ride is not stated.

the distress R.V. the evil case, the same word as in Nehemiah 1:1

Jerusalemlieth waste, &c. Cf. Nehemiah 2:3.

that we be no more a reproach See Nehemiah 1:3, where the words -affliction" and -reproach" are the same as the -distress" or -evil case," and -reproach" in this verse.

a reproach i.e. an object of reproach by reason of our inability to defend ourselves, cf. Psalms 22:6, -a reproach of men, and despised of the people;" Joel 2:19, -I will no more make you a reproach among the nations." Ezekiel 22:4.