Nehemiah 13:28

Even one of the sons of Jehoiada son of Eliashib the high priest had become a son-in-law to Sanballat the Horonite. Therefore I drove him away from me.

Study Bible

Even one of the sons of Joiada
This phrase introduces a significant breach in the religious and social order of Israel. Joiada, being the son of Eliashib the high priest, held a position of considerable influence and responsibility. The Hebrew root for "son" (בֵּן, ben) often implies not just a biological relationship but also a continuation of legacy and duty. In this context, it underscores the gravity of the situation, as the priestly line was expected to uphold the sanctity and purity of worship and community life.

son of Eliashib the high priest
Eliashib, as the high priest, was the spiritual leader of the Jewish people, responsible for maintaining the holiness of the temple and the community. The high priesthood was a hereditary position, and Eliashib's lineage was expected to exemplify adherence to God's laws. The mention of Eliashib here highlights the failure of the priestly family to maintain the separation from foreign influences, which was crucial for preserving the identity and faith of Israel.

was a son-in-law to Sanballat the Horonite
Sanballat the Horonite was a known adversary of Nehemiah and the Jewish people, as seen earlier in the book of Nehemiah. The term "son-in-law" (חָתָן, chathan) indicates a familial alliance through marriage, which was strictly prohibited with foreign nations due to the potential for idolatry and cultural assimilation. Sanballat's designation as a "Horonite" suggests his origin from Horonaim, a city in Moab, further emphasizing the foreign and potentially hostile nature of this alliance. This marriage represents a direct violation of the covenantal laws that were meant to keep Israel distinct and devoted to God.

So I drove him away from me
Nehemiah's response is decisive and uncompromising. The Hebrew verb used here for "drove away" (גָּרַשׁ, garash) conveys a forceful expulsion, reflecting Nehemiah's commitment to purifying the community and upholding the covenant. This action underscores the importance of leadership in maintaining the spiritual integrity of the people. Nehemiah's leadership is characterized by a zealous dedication to God's commands, serving as an example of righteous governance that prioritizes faithfulness over familial or political alliances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The governor of Jerusalem who led the rebuilding of the city's walls and instituted religious reforms.

2. Joiada
The son of Eliashib, who was the high priest during Nehemiah's time.

3. Eliashib
The high priest who had familial ties with Tobiah, an adversary of Nehemiah.

4. Sanballat the Horonite
A persistent opponent of Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild Jerusalem and restore its religious practices.

5. Jerusalem
The city where Nehemiah's reforms and rebuilding efforts took place.

Teaching Points

Guarding Against Compromise
Nehemiah's actions remind us of the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity and not compromising with those who oppose God's work.

Leadership and Accountability
Nehemiah demonstrates strong leadership by holding even the high priest's family accountable, showing that no one is above God's law.

The Danger of Unequal Yoking
The marriage alliance with Sanballat highlights the dangers of forming close relationships with those who do not share the same faith and values.

The Importance of Purity in Worship
Nehemiah's reforms emphasize the need for purity in worship and adherence to God's commands, which can be compromised by alliances with those outside the faith.

Resolute Action in the Face of Opposition
Nehemiah's decisive action in driving away the son-in-law of Sanballat serves as an example of taking firm steps to protect the community's spiritual health.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's response to the intermarriage issue reflect his commitment to God's law, and what can we learn from his example about handling compromise in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the relationship between Joiada's son and Sanballat illustrate the potential consequences of forming alliances with those who oppose God's work?

3. How can we apply Nehemiah's leadership principles in our own roles within the church or community, especially when faced with opposition?

4. What other biblical examples can you find where leaders took a stand for purity and obedience to God's commands, and how do these examples inspire us today?

5. How does the theme of purity in worship, as seen in Nehemiah's reforms, challenge us to evaluate our own worship practices and relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 10
This chapter discusses the issue of intermarriage with foreign nations, which was a significant concern for both Ezra and Nehemiah as it threatened the purity of Israel's worship and obedience to God's laws.

Nehemiah 6
Sanballat's opposition to Nehemiah's work is detailed, showing his consistent role as an adversary.

Malachi 2
Addresses the issue of faithfulness in marriage, which can be related to the problem of intermarriage with foreign nations that Nehemiah confronted.