Nehemiah's return

Nehemiah's return (Nehemiah 1–2)

David A. Dorsey, The Literary Structure of the Old Testament

1. a
   Nehemiah hears report of the problem1:1–3topics: trouble (ra'â), disgrace (ḥerpâ), gates burned with fire, walls broken down
2. b
   Nehemiah sits down and mourns some days1:4–11
3. c
   Nehemiah's request to king to let him go to Jerusalem2:1–5
4. d
   TURNING POINT: request granted!2:6
5. c′
   Nehemiah's request to king to give him letters for governors2:7–10
6. b′
   Nehemiah arises, goes to Jerusalem, and remains there three days2:11–16
7. a′
   Nehemiah gives own report of the problem; responses from Jews and enemies2:17–20topics: trouble (ra'â), disgrace (ḥerpâ), gates burned with fire, walls broken down