## may letters be given to me ##

This passive phrase expresses a servant speaking to a king. These letters would show that Nehemiah had the permission of the king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

## governors ##

These were Persian government administrators. Persia controlled all the territory from Persia to Egypt, including Judah.

## beyond the River ##

"beyond the Euphrates River" This was a largest river in the Near East.

## the fortress next to the temple ##

"the fortress belonging to the temple"

## the good hand of God was on me ##

This phrase conveys God's guidance and favor. AT: "God's favor was upon me." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])