Introduction:
Tobi'ah, also spelled Tobiah, is a biblical figure prominently mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah. He is known for his opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls during the post-exilic period. Tobi'ah's actions and character are often examined within the context of the challenges faced by the Jewish community in re-establishing their identity and religious practices after the Babylonian exile.

Historical Context:
Tobi'ah was an Ammonite official, and his presence in the narrative of Nehemiah highlights the political and social tensions between the returning Jewish exiles and the surrounding peoples. The Ammonites, along with other neighboring groups, had vested interests in the region and were often at odds with the Jewish efforts to restore Jerusalem.

Biblical References:
Tobi'ah is first introduced in Nehemiah 2:10, where his displeasure at Nehemiah's mission to rebuild Jerusalem is noted: "When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard about this, they were very displeased that someone had come to seek the well-being of the Israelites." (Nehemiah 2:10). This sets the stage for his continued opposition throughout the narrative.

In Nehemiah 4:3, Tobi'ah mocks the efforts of the builders, saying, "Even if a fox were to climb up on it, he would break down their wall of stones!" (Nehemiah 4:3). His derision underscores the contempt and ridicule faced by the Jewish community from their adversaries.

Tobi'ah's opposition is not merely verbal. In Nehemiah 6, he is involved in a conspiracy to intimidate Nehemiah and halt the construction. Nehemiah 6:12-14 reveals that Tobi'ah, along with Sanballat, hired false prophets to frighten Nehemiah into sinning, thereby discrediting him. Nehemiah's prayer in response to this plot is recorded: "Remember Tobiah and Sanballat, O my God, according to these their works, and the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the prophets who were trying to intimidate me." (Nehemiah 6:14).

Character and Influence:
Tobi'ah's character is portrayed as antagonistic and deceitful. His actions are driven by a desire to maintain influence and control over the region, which was threatened by the resurgence of a strong Jewish presence in Jerusalem. His alliances with other adversaries of Nehemiah, such as Sanballat, illustrate the concerted efforts to undermine the Jewish restoration.

Despite his opposition, Tobi'ah had significant influence within Jerusalem. Nehemiah 13:4-5 recounts how Eliashib the priest, who was related to Tobi'ah, provided him with a room in the temple courts, a clear violation of the sanctity of the temple. Nehemiah's response was swift and decisive, as he threw out Tobi'ah's household goods and purified the chambers (Nehemiah 13:8-9).

Theological Implications:
Tobi'ah's opposition to Nehemiah and the rebuilding efforts can be seen as a broader representation of the spiritual and physical challenges faced by God's people. His actions serve as a reminder of the persistent external threats to the covenant community and the need for vigilance and faithfulness in the face of adversity.

The narrative of Tobi'ah also highlights the importance of leadership and discernment. Nehemiah's steadfastness and reliance on God in dealing with Tobi'ah's schemes exemplify the qualities necessary for overcoming opposition and fulfilling God's purposes.

Conclusion:
While Tobi'ah is a figure of opposition in the biblical narrative, his presence underscores the resilience and determination of the Jewish community in re-establishing their identity and faith. His account serves as a testament to the enduring struggle between the forces of opposition and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.Tobi'ah (15 Occurrences)

Ezra 2:60
the children of Delaiah, the children of Tobiah, the children of Nekoda, six hundred fifty and two.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 2:10
And when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, heard of it, it grieved them exceedingly, for that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 2:19
But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said: 'What is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the king?'
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 4:3
Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said: 'Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall break down their stone wall.'
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 4:7
But it came to pass that, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the repairing of the walls of Jerusalem went forward, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very wroth;
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 6:1
Now it came to pass, when it was reported to Sanballat and Tobiah, and to Geshem the Arabian, and unto the rest of our enemies, that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein--though even unto that time I had not set up the doors in the gates--
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 6:12
And I discerned, and, lo, God had not sent him; for he pronounced this prophecy against me, whereas Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 6:14
Remember, O my God, Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and also the prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have me put in fear.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 6:17
Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters unto Tobiah, and the letters of Tobiah came unto them.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 6:19
Also they spoke of his good deeds before me, and reported my words to him. And Tobiah sent letters to put me in fear.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 7:62
the children of Delaiah, the children of Tobiah, the children of Nekoda, six hundred forty and two.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 13:4
Now before this, Eliashib the priest, who was appointed over the chambers of the house of our God, being allied unto Tobiah,
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 13:5
had prepared for him a great chamber, where before they laid the meal offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the grain, the new wine, and the oil, which were given by commandment to the Levites, and the singers, and the porters; and the wave offerings for the priests.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 13:7
and I came to Jerusalem, and understood the evil that Eliashib had done for Tobiah, in preparing him a chamber in the courts of the house of God.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 13:8
And it grieved me sore; therefore I cast forth all the household stuff of Tobiah out of the chamber.
(See RSV)

Tobi'ah (15 Occurrences)
Tobi'ah. Tobiah, Tobi'ah. Tobiah's . Multi-Version Concordance
Tobi'ah (15 Occurrences). Ezra 2:60 the children of Delaiah, the ...
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Tobi'ah's (1 Occurrence)
Tobi'ah's. Tobiah's, Tobi'ah's. Tobias . Multi-Version Concordance
Tobi'ah's (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 6:17 Moreover in those days ...
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Tobiah (14 Occurrences)

/t/tobiah.htm - 13k

Tobias

/t/tobias.htm - 6k

Tobiah's (2 Occurrences)

/t/tobiah's.htm - 6k

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