In the biblical narrative of Nehemiah, the account of renewed opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem is a significant episode that highlights the challenges faced by the Israelites during the reconstruction of Jerusalem's walls. This opposition is recorded in the Book of Nehemiah, primarily in chapters 4 and 6, and serves as a testament to the perseverance and faith of Nehemiah and the Jewish people in the face of external threats and internal discouragement.

Historical Context

The events take place during the Persian period, after the Babylonian exile, when the Jewish people were allowed to return to Jerusalem to rebuild their city and temple. Nehemiah, serving as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I of Persia, was granted permission to lead the effort to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, which had been in ruins since the Babylonian conquest.

Key Figures

· Sanballat the Horonite: Likely a governor of Samaria, Sanballat was a prominent adversary of Nehemiah. His opposition was rooted in political and regional interests, as the rebuilding of Jerusalem threatened the balance of power in the region.

· Tobiah the Ammonite: An official of Ammonite descent, Tobiah was closely allied with Sanballat. His opposition was both political and personal, as he had familial ties within Jerusalem that he sought to leverage against Nehemiah.

· Geshem the Arab: A leader of a confederation of Arab tribes, Geshem's involvement in the opposition was likely motivated by economic interests and the desire to maintain influence over trade routes in the region.

The Nature of the Opposition

The opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem was multifaceted, involving psychological warfare, political maneuvering, and attempts to incite fear among the Jewish people. Their tactics included:

1. Mockery and Ridicule: Initially, the adversaries sought to demoralize the builders through scorn and derision. Nehemiah 4:1-3 records Sanballat's mockery: "What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore the wall for themselves? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring these burnt stones back to life from the mounds of rubble?"

2. Conspiracy and Threats: As the work progressed, the opposition escalated to threats of violence. Nehemiah 4:8 states, "And all of them conspired to come and fight against Jerusalem and create a hindrance."

3. Deception and Intimidation: In Nehemiah 6, the adversaries attempted to lure Nehemiah into a trap by inviting him to a meeting in the plain of Ono. Nehemiah 6:2 recounts, "Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: 'Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.' But they were planning to harm me."

4. False Accusations: They also sought to discredit Nehemiah by spreading rumors of rebellion against the Persian king, as seen in Nehemiah 6:6-7 , where they falsely accused him of plotting to become king.

Nehemiah's Response

Nehemiah's response to the opposition was marked by prayer, vigilance, and strategic planning. He encouraged the people to trust in God and to continue the work with determination. Nehemiah 4:14 records his exhortation: "Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and daughters, your wives and your homes."

Nehemiah also implemented practical measures to protect the workers, such as stationing guards and arming the builders. His leadership and reliance on God were instrumental in overcoming the adversaries' schemes.

Significance

The renewed opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem serves as a powerful example of the spiritual and physical battles faced by God's people. It underscores the importance of faith, prayer, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The successful completion of the wall, despite the opposition, is a testament to God's providence and the steadfastness of those who trust in Him.