נחמיה, פרק ג׳, פסוק י״ד

The restoration of Jerusalem’s defenses required careful attention to a highly complex and significant topographical area. A crucial section of the wall formed a continuous link from the Valley Gate straight to the Dung Gate, and then onward toward the Fountain Gate. This specific region held great strategic importance because it enclosed the waters of Siloam, also known as the King's Pool, alongside the King's Gardens. While the City of David sat to the west of the Valley of Hinnom, the pool and gardens were securely positioned inside the city walls. To navigate this challenging terrain, a special bridge was constructed to connect the two walls, allowing people to pass between them using a designated set of stairs [מלבי״ם].

The responsibility for repairing the Dung Gate in this vital sector fell to Malchijah son of Rechab. He served as the district ruler of Beth-haccerem, which functioned as a distinct and recognized city [רלב״ג]. Taking full charge of the project, he reinforced the gate's structure, rebuilt it entirely, and securely installed its doors, locks, and bars [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. While historical accounts occasionally use forward-looking language to describe such building efforts, the actual physical labor and construction of this gate were successfully completed in the past [מצודת דוד].