Background and Context:
The opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah is a significant episode in the biblical narrative of Nehemiah, which is set during the period of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile. Nehemiah, a Jewish cupbearer to the Persian king Artaxerxes, is granted permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city's walls, which had been destroyed. This reconstruction effort is met with hostility from local leaders, notably Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official.

Sanballat the Horonite:
Sanballat is identified as a Horonite, likely indicating his origin from Horonaim in Moab or Beth-Horon in Samaria. He is described as a governor of Samaria and is a prominent figure in opposing Nehemiah's efforts. Sanballat's opposition is rooted in political and social concerns, as the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls threatened the balance of power and influence in the region.

Tobiah the Ammonite:
Tobiah is an Ammonite official who also opposes Nehemiah. His connections to the Jewish community are evident, as he has familial ties through marriage (Nehemiah 6:18). Tobiah's opposition is both personal and political, as he seeks to undermine Nehemiah's authority and the Jewish community's efforts to reestablish themselves in Jerusalem.

Nature of the Opposition:
The opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah is multifaceted, involving mockery, intimidation, and conspiracy. Initially, they ridicule the Jews' efforts, questioning their ability to rebuild the walls (Nehemiah 4:1-3). Sanballat and Tobiah's scorn is intended to demoralize the workers and halt the construction.

As the work progresses, their tactics escalate to threats of violence. They conspire with other regional leaders to attack Jerusalem and create confusion (Nehemiah 4:7-8). Nehemiah responds by organizing the workers with weapons and encouraging them to trust in God for protection (Nehemiah 4:14).

Spiritual and Moral Implications:
The opposition faced by Nehemiah and the Jewish community is emblematic of the broader spiritual warfare encountered by God's people. Sanballat and Tobiah's actions reflect the persistent resistance against God's plans and purposes. Nehemiah's leadership, characterized by prayer, vigilance, and reliance on God, serves as a model for overcoming adversity.

Resolution and Continued Challenges:
Despite the opposition, Nehemiah successfully completes the wall in fifty-two days, a testament to divine assistance and communal perseverance (Nehemiah 6:15-16). However, the challenges do not cease with the completion of the wall. Tobiah continues to exert influence within Jerusalem, exploiting his connections to undermine Nehemiah's reforms (Nehemiah 13:4-8).

Legacy and Lessons:
The account of Sanballat and Tobiah's opposition highlights the importance of steadfast faith and leadership in the face of external threats. It underscores the necessity of discernment and prayer in confronting challenges to God's work. Nehemiah's account encourages believers to remain committed to their divine calling, trusting in God's provision and protection amidst adversity.