Throughout biblical history, the Jewish people have faced numerous adversaries, both individual and national, who have opposed them and sought their harm. These enemies often serve as instruments of divine judgment or as foils to highlight God's protection and faithfulness to His covenant people. The following is an overview of some of the key enemies of the Jews as depicted in the Bible.

Egyptians
The Egyptians, under Pharaoh's rule, were among the first major oppressors of the Israelites. The Book of Exodus recounts the enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt and their subsequent liberation through God's intervention. Pharaoh's refusal to release the Israelites led to the ten plagues, culminating in the Exodus. "But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let the Israelites go out of his land" (Exodus 11:10).

Canaanites
The Canaanites, inhabitants of the Promised Land, were adversaries during the Israelite conquest under Joshua. God commanded the Israelites to drive out the Canaanites due to their idolatry and moral corruption. "You must drive out all the inhabitants of the land before you. Destroy all their carved images and cast idols, and demolish all their high places" (Numbers 33:52).

Philistines
The Philistines were a persistent threat during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. Known for their military prowess and conflicts with Israel, they are most famously associated with the account of David and Goliath. "The Philistines assembled their forces for war... A champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out of the Philistine camp" (1 Samuel 17:1, 4).

Assyrians
The Assyrian Empire was a formidable enemy that conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 BC. The Assyrians were known for their brutal military campaigns and deportations. "In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria and deported the Israelites to Assyria" (2 Kings 17:6).

Babylonians
The Babylonians, under King Nebuchadnezzar, destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple in 586 BC, leading to the Babylonian Exile. This event was a significant moment of judgment and transformation for the Jewish people. "He burned down the house of the LORD, the royal palace, and all the houses of Jerusalem" (2 Kings 25:9).

Persians
While the Persians, under King Cyrus, allowed the Jews to return to their homeland and rebuild the Temple, adversaries like Haman sought their destruction. The Book of Esther details Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews and its providential thwarting. "Haman sought to destroy all the Jews, the people of Mordecai, throughout the kingdom of Xerxes" (Esther 3:6).

Greeks
During the Hellenistic period, the Seleucid Empire, particularly under Antiochus IV Epiphanes, persecuted the Jews and desecrated the Second Temple. This led to the Maccabean Revolt, a significant struggle for religious freedom and identity.

Romans
The Roman Empire, which occupied Judea during the time of Jesus, was responsible for the destruction of the Second Temple in AD 70. Roman oppression and taxation were significant issues during the New Testament period. "When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, you will know that her desolation is near" (Luke 21:20).

Throughout these adversities, the Jewish people have maintained their identity and faith, often seeing their struggles as part of a divine plan. The Bible portrays these enemies not only as historical figures but also as part of a larger spiritual narrative, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of His purposes.