Sanballat and Tobiah are prominent figures in the biblical narrative of the Book of Nehemiah, known for their opposition to the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Their actions and motivations provide insight into the challenges faced by the Jewish community during the post-exilic period.

Sanballat

Sanballat is identified as a Horonite, which likely indicates his origin from Beth-Horon, a town in the region of Samaria. He is often referred to as a governor or leader of Samaria, a position that would have given him significant influence and authority in the region. Sanballat's opposition to Nehemiah and the Jewish people is evident from the outset of Nehemiah's mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

In Nehemiah 2:10 , it is recorded, "When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard about this, they were deeply disturbed that someone had come to seek the well-being of the Israelites." This initial reaction sets the stage for their continued antagonism. Sanballat's hostility is further demonstrated in Nehemiah 4:1-2 , where he mocks the Jews, questioning their ability to rebuild the wall: "When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and mocked the Jews. Before his colleagues and the army of Samaria, he said, '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?'"

Sanballat's opposition is not merely verbal; he actively conspires to thwart the rebuilding efforts. Nehemiah 4:7-8 notes, "When Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the people of Ashdod heard that the repair to the walls of Jerusalem was progressing and that the gaps were being closed, they were furious, and all of them conspired to come and fight against Jerusalem and create a hindrance."

Tobiah

Tobiah, identified as an Ammonite official, is a close associate of Sanballat and shares in his opposition to Nehemiah's work. The Ammonites, historically, had been adversaries of Israel, and Tobiah's actions are consistent with this enmity. In Nehemiah 2:19 , Tobiah, along with Sanballat and Geshem the Arab, ridicules Nehemiah's efforts: "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?'"

Tobiah's influence extends into the Jewish community, as he has familial ties with some of the Jewish nobles, which he exploits to undermine Nehemiah's leadership. Nehemiah 6:17-19 reveals, "Also in those days, the nobles of Judah sent many letters to Tobiah, and Tobiah’s letters came back to them. For many in Judah were bound by oath to him, since he was a son-in-law of Shecaniah son of Arah, and his son Jehohanan had married the daughter of Meshullam son of Berechiah. Moreover, they kept reporting to me Tobiah’s good deeds, and they relayed my words to him. And Tobiah sent letters to intimidate me."

Opposition and Persistence

The opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah is a significant theme in the Book of Nehemiah, highlighting the external and internal challenges faced by the Jewish community. Despite their efforts to intimidate and discourage the builders, Nehemiah remains steadfast, relying on prayer and strategic planning to overcome these obstacles. Nehemiah 4:9 states, "So we prayed to our God and posted a guard against them day and night."

Sanballat and Tobiah's actions serve as a reminder of the persistent opposition that God's people may face when undertaking His work. Their account underscores the importance of faith, perseverance, and reliance on God in the face of adversity.