Nehemiah

The Hebrew and Greek that is transliterated as “Nehemiah” in English means “YHWH comforts,” “YHWH has consoled.” (Source: Cornwall / Smith 1997 )

It is translated in Spanish Sign Language with the sign for “builder” referring to Nehemiah leading the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. (Source: Steve Parkhurst)


“Nehemiah” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

In Hungarian Sign Language it is translated with a sign that refers to his personality: to encourage, strengthen, and build. As governor, Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity; he encouraged the people, strengthened their faith and defenses, and restored the dignity of the community. Through his actions, he fulfilled the will of God. (Source: Jenjelvi Biblia and HSL Bible Translation Group)


“Nehemiah” in Hungarian Sign Language — note that only the first part refers to “Haggai,” the second part refers to “book” (source )

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

More information on Nehemiah .

complete verse (Nehemiah 10:1)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of Nehemiah 10:1:

  • Kupsabiny: “The first person to sign the agreement was Nehemiah son of Hacaliah who was governor of the community.
    Then these people followed to sign: Zedekiah,” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “The first-one who signed was Governor Nehemias the child of Hacalia, and Zedekia.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “This is a list/These are the names of those who signed the agreement:
    I, Nehemiah, the governor; and also Zedekiah.” (Source: Translation for Translators)