Sanballat, a prominent figure in the Book of Nehemiah, is often remembered for his opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. As a Samaritan leader, Sanballat's actions and diplomatic maneuvers are significant in understanding the challenges faced by Nehemiah and the returning exiles during the post-exilic period.

Historical Context

Sanballat was the governor of Samaria during the time of Nehemiah, around the mid-5th century BC. The Samaritans, a mixed population with both Jewish and non-Jewish ancestry, had longstanding tensions with the Jewish people. This animosity was exacerbated by the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and their efforts to restore Jerusalem, which was seen as a threat to the political and religious influence of the Samaritans.

Opposition to Nehemiah

Sanballat's opposition to Nehemiah is documented in several passages in the Book of Nehemiah. His initial reaction to the rebuilding efforts was one of mockery and scorn. Nehemiah 4:1-2 states, "Now when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews, and before his associates and the army of Samaria, he said, 'What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble—burned as they are?'"

Sanballat's strategy was not limited to verbal ridicule. He engaged in diplomatic efforts to undermine Nehemiah's work. Along with Tobiah the Ammonite and Geshem the Arab, Sanballat attempted to intimidate and discourage the builders through threats and conspiracies. Nehemiah 4:7-8 records, "But when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the people of Ashdod heard that the repairs to Jerusalem’s walls had gone ahead and that the gaps were being closed, they were very angry. They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it."

Diplomatic Intrigues

Sanballat's diplomatic tactics included attempts to lure Nehemiah into a trap. In Nehemiah 6:2 , Sanballat and Geshem sent a message to Nehemiah, saying, "Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono." However, Nehemiah perceived this as a scheme to harm him and refused to meet. Sanballat's persistence is evident as he sent the same message multiple times, each time receiving the same response from Nehemiah.

In a further attempt to discredit Nehemiah, Sanballat resorted to spreading false rumors. Nehemiah 6:6-7 describes an open letter sent by Sanballat, accusing Nehemiah of plotting rebellion and intending to become king. This tactic aimed to create distrust between Nehemiah and the Persian king, Artaxerxes, under whose authority Nehemiah was serving.

Religious and Political Implications

Sanballat's opposition to Nehemiah was not merely a personal vendetta but had broader religious and political implications. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls symbolized the restoration of Jewish identity and religious practices, which threatened the influence of surrounding regions, including Samaria. Sanballat's actions can be seen as an attempt to maintain the status quo and prevent the resurgence of a strong, independent Jewish community centered in Jerusalem.

Legacy

Sanballat's legacy is one of opposition to God's work through Nehemiah. Despite his efforts, the walls of Jerusalem were completed, demonstrating the triumph of divine purpose over human schemes. Sanballat's account serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by God's people and the importance of steadfast faith and discernment in the face of opposition.Nehemiah 6:1
Now it came to pass when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had built the wall, and that there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the doors on the gates;)
Nave's Topical Index

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