Sanballat and Geshem are notable figures in the biblical narrative of Nehemiah, primarily known for their opposition to the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Their actions and interactions with Nehemiah are recorded in the Book of Nehemiah, providing insight into the challenges faced by the Jewish community during the post-exilic period.

Sanballat

Sanballat is identified as a Horonite, which suggests he was from Beth-Horon, a town in the region of Samaria. He is often referred to as a Samaritan leader, and his opposition to Nehemiah is emblematic of the broader tensions between the returning Jewish exiles and the inhabitants of the land. Sanballat's primary role in the narrative is as an antagonist who seeks to thwart Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

In Nehemiah 2:10, Sanballat is first introduced alongside Tobiah the Ammonite: "When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard about this, they were very displeased that someone had come to seek the well-being of the Israelites." This initial displeasure quickly escalates into active opposition. Sanballat's tactics include mockery, intimidation, and attempts to lure Nehemiah into a trap. Nehemiah 4:1-2 records Sanballat's derision: "Now when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews before his associates and the army of Samaria, saying, '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 opposition is persistent, as seen in Nehemiah 6, where he, along with others, attempts to lure Nehemiah away from his work under the pretense of a meeting. Nehemiah 6:2-4 states, "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. So I sent messengers to them, saying, 'I am doing a great work and cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it to go down to you?' Four times they sent me the same message, and each time I gave them the same reply."

Geshem

Geshem, also known as Gashmu, is identified as an Arab leader. His involvement with Sanballat and Tobiah highlights the regional opposition to the Jewish efforts in Jerusalem. Geshem's role, while less prominent than Sanballat's, is significant in the coalition against Nehemiah.

In Nehemiah 2:19, Geshem is mentioned as part of the trio opposing Nehemiah: "But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about it, they mocked and despised us, saying, 'What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?'" This accusation of rebellion against the Persian king was a serious charge, intended to undermine Nehemiah's authority and halt the construction.

Geshem's participation in the plot to harm Nehemiah is also noted in Nehemiah 6:6-7, where a false letter is sent to Nehemiah, accusing him of planning to become king: "In it was written: 'It is reported among the nations—and Geshem says it is true—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and therefore you are rebuilding the wall. According to these reports, you are about to become their king and have even appointed prophets to make this proclamation about you in Jerusalem: "There is a king in Judah!" Now this report will get back to the king. So come, let us confer together.'"

Historical and Theological Context

The opposition of Sanballat and Geshem is set against the backdrop of the Persian Empire's control over the region. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was not merely a construction project but a significant act of restoring the identity and security of the Jewish people. Sanballat and Geshem's resistance can be seen as an attempt to maintain the status quo and prevent the re-establishment of a strong Jewish presence in Jerusalem.

From a theological perspective, the narrative of Sanballat and Geshem underscores the theme of divine providence and protection. Despite the external threats and internal challenges, Nehemiah's leadership and reliance on God lead to the successful completion of the wall. Nehemiah 6:15-16 records the triumph: "So the wall was completed on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days. When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God."

Sanballat and Geshem serve as reminders of the persistent opposition faced by God's people throughout history, yet their efforts ultimately fail in the face of divine intervention and faithful leadership.