Topical Encyclopedia Sanballat is a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the Book of Nehemiah, where he is depicted as an adversary to the rebuilding efforts of Jerusalem's walls. His actions and intentions are often characterized by malice, as he sought to undermine and thwart the work led by Nehemiah.Historical Context Sanballat was a Samaritan leader during the time of Nehemiah, around the mid-5th century BC. He is often identified as the governor of Samaria, a region north of Judah. The Samaritans were a mixed population, partly descended from Israelites who had not been exiled and partly from foreign peoples settled in the land by the Assyrians. This mixed heritage often led to tensions with the returning Jewish exiles who sought to reestablish their identity and religious practices centered in Jerusalem. Biblical Account Sanballat first appears in Nehemiah 2:10, where his displeasure is noted: "When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard about this, they were deeply disturbed that someone had come to seek the well-being of the Israelites." . His opposition is rooted in political and social concerns, as the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls threatened the balance of power and influence in the region. Throughout the narrative, Sanballat's malice is evident in various forms: 1. Mockery and Ridicule: In Nehemiah 4:1-3, Sanballat, along with Tobiah, mocks the Jews' efforts, questioning their ability to rebuild the walls and suggesting that even a fox could break down their stone wall. This ridicule was intended to demoralize the workers and halt their progress. 2. Conspiracy and Intimidation: Sanballat's opposition escalates to conspiracy. Nehemiah 4:7-8 records that Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites plotted together to fight against Jerusalem and create confusion. This coalition of adversaries highlights the extent of Sanballat's malice and his determination to stop the rebuilding. 3. Deception and Manipulation: In Nehemiah 6, Sanballat attempts to lure Nehemiah into a trap by inviting him to a meeting in the plain of Ono, intending to harm him. Nehemiah 6:2 states, "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." . Nehemiah's discernment and refusal to be distracted or deceived thwarted Sanballat's plans. 4. False Prophecy and Fearmongering: Sanballat also resorted to employing false prophets to intimidate Nehemiah. In Nehemiah 6:10-14, a false prophecy is delivered to Nehemiah, urging him to hide in the temple to save his life. Nehemiah recognizes this as a ploy to discredit him and instill fear. Theological Implications Sanballat's actions serve as a representation of the opposition faced by God's people throughout history. His malice is not merely personal but is emblematic of the spiritual warfare against God's purposes. The narrative of Nehemiah underscores the importance of faithfulness, discernment, and perseverance in the face of such opposition. Sanballat's malice is ultimately futile, as Nehemiah's reliance on God and steadfast commitment to the task result in the successful completion of the wall. Nehemiah 6:15-16 records the triumph: "So the wall was completed in fifty-two days, on the twenty-fifth of Elul. When all our enemies heard about this, all the surrounding nations were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God." . Conclusion Sanballat's role in the biblical narrative is a cautionary tale of malice and opposition to God's work. His actions, driven by political and personal motives, ultimately serve to highlight the resilience and faith of those committed to God's purposes. The account of Sanballat in Nehemiah remains a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by God's people and the divine assistance available to overcome them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Nehemiah 2:10When Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, heard of it, it grieved them exceedingly that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Heathen Plots Discouragements and Courage The Two Guards, Praying and Watching Discussion of the Subject of Permission Resources What does the Bible say about bitterness? | GotQuestions.orgWhen is it necessary to rebuke another believer? | GotQuestions.org How can I know if the desires of my heart are from God? | GotQuestions.org Malice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Malfeasance in office: The Leasees of the Vineyard, in One of the Parables of Jesus Malfeasance in office: The Steward Mentioned in One of the Parables of Jesus Malice: A Hindrance to Growth in Grace Malice: Ahithophel Toward David Malice: Ammonites Toward the Israelites Malice: Brings Its own Punishment Malice: Christian Liberty not to be a Cloak For Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Malice: Herod Antipas Toward Jesus Malice: Incompatible With the Worship of God Malice: James and John Toward the Samaritans Malice: Joseph's Brothers Toward Joseph Malice: Masters of the Sorcerous Damsel Toward Paul Malice: Nebuchadrezzar Toward Zedekiah Malice: Philistines Toward Isaac Malice: Potiphar's Wife Toward Joseph Malice: Pray for Those Who Injure You Through Malice: Samaritans Toward the Jews Malice: Springs from an Evil Heart Malice: The Jewish Leaders Toward Jesus Malice: The Wicked: Filled With Malice: The Wicked: Speak With Malice: The Wicked: Visit Saints With Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) |
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