The story of Nehemiah and the opposition he faced from Sanballat and Tobiah is a compelling narrative that speaks to the broader themes of faith, perseverance, and divine protection. To understand why Sanballat and Tobiah opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, we must delve into the historical, political, and spiritual context of the time.
In the book of Nehemiah, we learn that Nehemiah, a Jewish cupbearer to the Persian King Artaxerxes, felt a divine calling to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The city had been in ruins since the Babylonian conquest, and its walls were a symbol of its vulnerability and disgrace. Nehemiah's mission was not merely a construction project; it was a spiritual renewal and a reclaiming of the Jewish identity and faith.
Sanballat and Tobiah were regional governors who held significant power and influence in the area surrounding Jerusalem. Sanballat was the governor of Samaria, and Tobiah was an Ammonite official. Their opposition to Nehemiah's efforts can be understood through several lenses:
Political Threat
The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls represented a significant shift in the balance of power in the region. Sanballat and Tobiah, as local leaders, had vested interests in maintaining their control and influence. A fortified Jerusalem could become a political and military threat to their authority. The walls would provide the city with protection and autonomy, potentially challenging the dominance of neighboring regions.
In Nehemiah 2:10, we read, "When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard about this, they were very much disturbed that someone had come to promote the welfare of the Israelites." Their disturbance was not merely about the physical act of rebuilding but about the implications it had for their political power.
Economic Interests
Jerusalem's restoration could also disrupt the economic status quo. A thriving Jerusalem would attract trade, commerce, and resources that might otherwise flow to the regions controlled by Sanballat and Tobiah. The economic revitalization of Jerusalem threatened to diminish their economic influence and prosperity.
Religious and Ethnic Tensions
Sanballat and Tobiah's opposition also had religious and ethnic dimensions. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was a statement of Jewish identity and faith. It was a declaration that the God of Israel was still with His people and that they were reclaiming their covenantal promises.
In Nehemiah 4:1-3, we see Sanballat mocking the Jews, saying, "What are those 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?" Tobiah adds, "What they are building—even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!"
Their mockery reveals a deep-seated disdain for the Jewish people and their faith. It was not just a physical wall they opposed but the spiritual and cultural renewal it represented.
Fear of Losing Control
Sanballat and Tobiah's opposition was also rooted in fear. The success of Nehemiah's mission would inspire the Jewish people and strengthen their resolve. It would demonstrate that God's favor was upon them, and this divine endorsement could lead to a shift in loyalty and allegiance among the people in the region.
Nehemiah 6:6-7 reveals the extent of their fear when Sanballat sends an open letter accusing Nehemiah of plotting rebellion and intending to become king. "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 building the wall. Moreover, 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!’" This accusation was an attempt to undermine Nehemiah's credibility and sow discord.
Spiritual Warfare
Beyond the political, economic, and social factors, Sanballat and Tobiah's opposition can also be seen as part of a larger spiritual battle. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was not just a physical act but a spiritual endeavor. It was about reestablishing God's presence and protection over His people.
In Ephesians 6:12, the Apostle Paul reminds us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Sanballat and Tobiah's resistance can be seen as part of this spiritual struggle, opposing God's work and His people.
Nehemiah's Response
Nehemiah's response to the opposition is a powerful testament to faith and leadership. He did not succumb to fear or intimidation. Instead, he turned to prayer and sought God's guidance and strength. In Nehemiah 4:4-5, he prays, "Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of the builders."
Nehemiah also took practical steps to protect the workers and ensure the project's completion. He stationed guards, armed the workers, and encouraged them to trust in God while being vigilant. Nehemiah 4:14 captures his inspiring words: "After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, 'Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.'"
Legacy and Lessons
The story of Nehemiah and the opposition he faced from Sanballat and Tobiah offers timeless lessons for believers today. It reminds us that God's work will often face resistance, but with faith, prayer, and perseverance, we can overcome obstacles. It teaches us the importance of godly leadership, the power of community, and the need to be vigilant in the face of spiritual warfare.
Nehemiah's unwavering commitment to his mission and his reliance on God serve as an inspiration for all who seek to do God's work in the world. As we reflect on this narrative, we are encouraged to stand firm in our faith, trust in God's protection, and continue the work He has called us to do, regardless of the opposition we may face.
