Gesham, also known as Gashmu, is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Nehemiah. He is identified as an Arabian leader who opposed the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem during the time of Nehemiah. Gesham is often associated with other adversaries of Nehemiah, such as Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official.

Biblical References:

1. Nehemiah 2:19 : "But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about this, they mocked and despised us, saying, 'What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?'"

In this passage, Gesham is introduced as one of the key figures opposing Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. His mockery and accusations suggest a political motive, as he questions the legitimacy of Nehemiah's actions, implying rebellion against the Persian king.

2. Nehemiah 6:1-2 : "When Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall and that no gap was left in it (though to that time I had not yet installed the doors in the gates), 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."

Here, Gesham is part of a plot to lure Nehemiah away from his work under the pretense of a meeting. The intent was to harm Nehemiah, indicating the lengths to which Gesham and his allies were willing to go to stop the reconstruction efforts.

3. Nehemiah 6:6 : "It is reported among the nations—and Geshem agrees—that you and the Jews are plotting to revolt, and that is why you are rebuilding the wall. According to these reports, you are to become their king."

This verse highlights Gesham's role in spreading rumors and false reports about Nehemiah's intentions. By suggesting that Nehemiah was planning to declare himself king, Gesham sought to undermine Nehemiah's authority and create political tension.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Gesham's identity as an Arab leader suggests he was part of the Arabian tribes that inhabited the region south and east of Judah. During the Persian period, these tribes had significant influence and often interacted with the Jewish community. Gesham's opposition to Nehemiah can be understood within the broader context of regional politics, where local leaders were wary of any shifts in power dynamics that might threaten their own positions.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Gesham's opposition to Nehemiah represents the broader theme of resistance faced by God's people when undertaking His work. Despite the external threats and internal challenges, Nehemiah's reliance on prayer and steadfast faith in God enabled him to overcome these adversities. Gesham's actions serve as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that often accompanies the fulfillment of divine purposes.

Lessons for Believers:

Gesham's account, as part of the narrative in Nehemiah, offers several lessons for believers:

· Perseverance in the Face of Opposition: Nehemiah's response to Gesham's threats and schemes exemplifies the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of adversity.
· Discernment and Wisdom: Nehemiah's ability to discern the true intentions behind Gesham's invitation to meet demonstrates the need for wisdom and discernment in dealing with opposition.
· Reliance on God: Throughout the challenges posed by Gesham and others, Nehemiah consistently turned to prayer, highlighting the necessity of relying on God for strength and guidance.

Gesham's role in the biblical narrative underscores the reality of opposition to God's work but also affirms the ultimate triumph of His purposes through faithful and obedient servants.Gesham

(filthy) (sometimes written GESHAN), one of the sons of Judah, in the genealogy of Judah and family of Caleb. (1 Chronicles 2:47)

Gesham (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Gesham (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 2:47 And the sons
of Jahdai; Regem, and Jotham, and Gesham, and Pelet, and Ephah, and Shaaph. ...
/g/gesham.htm - 6k

Geshan (1 Occurrence)
... 47). The King James Version has "Gesham," but not in the original 1611
edition. Multi-Version Concordance Geshan (1 Occurrence). ...
/g/geshan.htm - 7k

Gerzites (1 Occurrence)

/g/gerzites.htm - 7k

Jotham (26 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Chronicles 2:47 And the sons of
Jahdai; Regem, and Jotham, and Gesham, and Pelet, and Ephah, and Shaaph. ...
/j/jotham.htm - 25k

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