Mehetabeel is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls under Nehemiah's leadership. He is noted primarily for his familial connection to an individual who played a role in the opposition against Nehemiah's efforts. The name Mehetabeel means "God does good" or "God benefits," reflecting a theophoric element common in Hebrew names, which often express a relationship or attribute of God.

Biblical Reference:

Mehetabeel is mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah, specifically in Nehemiah 6:10-14. The passage describes an incident where Nehemiah is confronted by Shemaiah, the son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabeel. Shemaiah attempts to intimidate Nehemiah by suggesting that he should hide in the temple to save his life from an alleged assassination plot. This counsel, however, is revealed to be a deceitful ploy orchestrated by Nehemiah's enemies, Sanballat and Tobiah, to discredit and frighten him.

Nehemiah 6:10-14 :

"Later, I went to the house of Shemaiah son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabel, who was confined to his home. He said: 'Let us meet at the house of God inside the temple. Let us shut the temple doors, for they are coming to kill you—by night they are coming to kill you!' But I replied, 'Should a man like me run away? How can someone like me enter the temple and live? I will not go!' I realized that God had not sent him, but that he had uttered this prophecy against me because Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. He had been hired to intimidate me so that I would commit a sin by doing this, and then they would give me a bad name to discredit me. Remember, O my God, Tobiah and Sanballat, according to these their works, and also the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the prophets who have been trying to intimidate me."

Historical and Theological Context:

The account of Mehetabeel's grandson, Shemaiah, highlights the persistent opposition Nehemiah faced from various quarters as he sought to fulfill God's mandate to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. This opposition was not only external but also internal, as some within the community were swayed by the influence and bribery of adversaries. The narrative underscores the theme of discernment and reliance on God in the face of deceit and intimidation.

From a theological perspective, the account of Mehetabeel's lineage serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that accompanies the work of God's people. It illustrates the necessity of vigilance and prayerful dependence on God to discern truth from falsehood. Nehemiah's response to Shemaiah's intimidation reflects his unwavering faith and commitment to God's mission, as well as his understanding of the sanctity of the temple, which was not to be used for personal refuge in a manner contrary to God's law.

Genealogical Note:

While Mehetabeel himself is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his mention provides a genealogical link that situates Shemaiah within the broader context of the community in Jerusalem. The inclusion of such genealogical details in Scripture often serves to authenticate the historical narrative and to provide insight into the familial and social networks of the time.

In summary, Mehetabeel's significance in the Bible arises from his connection to Shemaiah, whose actions against Nehemiah highlight the challenges faced by the Jewish community during the post-exilic period. The account serves as a testament to the resilience and faithfulness required to overcome opposition in the pursuit of God's purposes.Nehemiah 6:10
Afterward I came to the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabeel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay you; yes, in the night will they come to slay you.
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