Geshem, also known as Gashmu, is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Nehemiah. He is identified as an Arab leader who opposed the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem during the time of Nehemiah, the Jewish governor appointed by the Persian king Artaxerxes I. Geshem's opposition is significant in understanding the external challenges faced by the Jewish community during the post-exilic period.

Biblical References:

Geshem is primarily mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah. In Nehemiah 2:19 , it is recorded: "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?'" This verse highlights Geshem's role as a key adversary, alongside Sanballat and Tobiah, in ridiculing and questioning the intentions of Nehemiah and the Jewish people.

Further opposition is noted in 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." This passage illustrates the persistent efforts of Geshem and his allies to thwart Nehemiah's mission, even resorting to deceitful tactics.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Geshem's identity as an Arab leader suggests he was part of the broader coalition of regional powers that felt threatened by the re-establishment of Jerusalem's fortifications. The Arabs, along with the Samaritans, Ammonites, and others, had vested interests in maintaining the status quo, which allowed them to exert influence over the region. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls symbolized a resurgence of Jewish autonomy and religious identity, which was perceived as a direct challenge to their authority.

The name "Geshem" is of Arabic origin, and his designation as "the Arab" indicates his ethnic and political affiliations. The presence of Arab tribes in the region during this period is well-documented, and they often played significant roles in the geopolitical dynamics of the Near East.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Geshem's opposition to Nehemiah can be seen as part of the broader narrative of resistance against God's people and their divinely ordained mission. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was not merely a physical reconstruction but also a spiritual renewal for the Jewish community. Geshem's antagonism serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges faced by God's people throughout history, as they seek to fulfill their covenantal obligations.

Nehemiah's response to Geshem and his cohorts is characterized by prayer, discernment, and steadfastness. Despite the external threats and internal discouragement, Nehemiah remains committed to the task, relying on God's guidance and protection. This narrative underscores the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of opposition, themes that resonate throughout the biblical text.

In summary, Geshem (Gashmu) is a notable adversary in the Book of Nehemiah, representing the external opposition to the Jewish community's efforts to restore Jerusalem. His actions and the subsequent response by Nehemiah provide valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and theological dimensions of this pivotal period in Israel's history.Geshem or Gashmu

An Arabian, who opposed the work of the Lord in the time of Nehemiah, by ridicule and plots, Nehemiah 2:19; 6:1-9; about 445 B. C.

1654. Geshem -- an opponent of Nehemiah
Geshem or Gashmu. 1653, 1654. Geshem or Gashmu. 1655 . an opponent of
Nehemiah. Transliteration: Geshem or Gashmu Phonetic Spelling ...
/hebrew/1654.htm - 6k

1656. goshem -- rained upon
... Word Origin another reading for gasham, qv Gashmu Definition see NH1654. rained
upon From gasham; equivalent to geshem -- rained upon. see HEBREW gasham. ...
/hebrew/1656.htm - 6k

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