A Builder and Reformer in the Restoration of Jerusalem
The books of Ezra and Nehemiah chronicle one of the most vital periods in Israel’s history: the return from Babylonian captivity and the subsequent effort to rebuild the Temple, the city walls, and the spiritual foundation of the nation. The name Binnui appears several times in these records, pointing to at least one, and possibly multiple, faithful individuals involved in the great work of restoration.
The Meaning and Context of the Name
The Hebrew name Binnui ($\text{×‘Ö´ÖĽ× ÖĽ×•ÖĽ×™}$, BinnĂ»y) means “built up,” “a building,” or “rebuilt.” This name is remarkably fitting for a man who lived during the era of physical and spiritual reconstruction in Jerusalem.
In the King James Version, the name is associated with several key roles during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah:
1. The Builder of the Wall
One prominent Binnui is singled out for his direct, hands-on contribution to the physical safety of Jerusalem:
“After him repaired Binnui the son of Henadad another portion, from the house of Azariah unto the turning of the wall, even unto the corner.” (Nehemiah 3:24, KJV)
In a time when enemies constantly mocked and threatened the returning people, the work of rebuilding the walls under Nehemiah was a critical act of faith and defense. Binnui’s specific section of repair confirms his commitment and industry in securing the holy city, a necessary precursor to spiritual revival.
2. The Covenant Sealer and Levite
Another Binnui (likely the same Levite of Henadad’s line) is listed among the religious leaders who publicly committed to re-establish obedience to the Mosaic Law. This spiritual work was just as crucial as the physical building:
“The Levites: namely, Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui of the sons of Henadad, Kadmiel;” (Nehemiah 10:9, KJV)
By sealing the solemn covenant, Binnui demonstrated a leadership role in calling the community back to holiness and adherence to the Truth of God’s Word.
3. The Repenter and Reformer
The name Binnui also appears in the record of those who had intermarried with foreign women, an issue Ezra identified as a serious violation of the covenant and a threat to Israel’s purity:
“And of the sons of Pahathmoab; Adna, and Chelal, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattaniah, Bezaleel, and Binnui, and Manasseh.” (Ezra 10:30, KJV)
Another individual or family line named Binnui is also listed for the same offense (Ezra 10:38). These references are not marks of eternal shame, but rather historical evidence of genuine repentance. To be publicly named in this list and agree to the difficult action of putting away foreign wives was a painful, yet necessary, step toward restoration and sanctification.
Binnui and the Defence of the Truth
Binnui’s multi-faceted role—as a builder, a Levite, and a reformer—makes him a powerful symbol for the contemporary mission of Defence of the Truth.
His life teaches that the work of God requires both physical effort (building the wall against worldly pressures) and spiritual discipline (sealing the covenant against spiritual compromise). The commitment to rebuilding the foundations of faith—literally, “Binnui”—is paramount.
In an age of compromise, Binnui represents the individual who contributes both to the visible defense (like the walls) and the invisible purity (like the covenant) of the community of faith, ensuring a holy people are prepared for the Lord’s Return.