Topical Encyclopedia Sanballat the Horonite is a significant figure mentioned in the Old Testament, primarily in the Book of Nehemiah. He is recognized as one of the principal adversaries of Nehemiah during the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. The term "Horonite" likely indicates that Sanballat hailed from Horonaim, a city in Moab, although some scholars suggest a connection to Beth-Horon in Samaria.Biblical References: Sanballat first appears 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." Throughout the narrative, Sanballat is depicted as a persistent opponent of Nehemiah's efforts. In Nehemiah 2:19, he, along with Tobiah and Geshem the Arab, mocks and ridicules the Jews, questioning their intentions and accusing them of rebelling against the king: "But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard about it, they mocked and despised us, saying, 'What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?'" Sanballat's opposition intensifies in Nehemiah 4, where he becomes angry and greatly incensed at the progress of the wall's reconstruction. He conspires with others to fight against Jerusalem and create confusion among the builders. Nehemiah 4:1-3 records Sanballat's derision: "Now when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and mocked the Jews. Before his associates and the army of Samaria, he said, 'What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore the wall for themselves? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring these burnt stones back to life from the mounds of rubble?'" Despite Sanballat's efforts, Nehemiah remains steadfast, encouraging the people to trust in God and continue their work. Sanballat's schemes, including attempts to lure Nehemiah into a trap (Nehemiah 6:1-9), ultimately fail due to Nehemiah's discernment and reliance on divine protection. Historical and Cultural Context: Sanballat's role as a governor or leader in the region of Samaria is inferred from his interactions with Nehemiah and his apparent influence over other regional leaders. His opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls can be understood within the broader context of political and territorial tensions between the returning Jewish exiles and the established populations in the surrounding areas. The animosity between the Jews and the Samaritans, which is evident in the narrative of Nehemiah, reflects longstanding historical and religious conflicts. Sanballat's actions are emblematic of the resistance faced by the Jewish community as they sought to reestablish their identity and religious practices in their ancestral homeland. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, Sanballat's opposition serves as a backdrop to highlight themes of faithfulness, perseverance, and divine providence. Nehemiah's leadership and reliance on God in the face of adversity exemplify the biblical principle that God's purposes will prevail despite human opposition. Sanballat's role as an antagonist underscores the challenges faced by God's people throughout history and the necessity of steadfast faith and obedience to God's commands. Nave's Topical Index 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. Nave's Topical Index Library The Builders on the Wall The Prophet Nehemiah Nehemiah's Answer to a Call for Help The Two Guards, Praying and Watching Fire! Fire! Fire! The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources Who were Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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