Topical Encyclopedia Tobi'jah is a name found within the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history, specifically during the time of Nehemiah. The name Tobi'jah, or Tobiah, is of Hebrew origin, meaning "Yahweh is good." This name is associated with a prominent adversary of Nehemiah, who played a significant role in the opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.Biblical References: 1. Tobiah the Ammonite: Tobiah is most notably mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah as an Ammonite official who opposed Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Alongside Sanballat the Horonite and Geshem the Arab, Tobiah sought to thwart the restoration efforts through mockery, conspiracy, and intimidation. Nehemiah 2:10 states, "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." 2. Opposition to Nehemiah: Tobiah's opposition is further detailed in Nehemiah 4:3 , where he mocks the Jews' efforts, saying, "Even if a fox were to climb up on it, he would break down their wall of stones!" His disdain for the rebuilding project is evident, and he actively collaborates with other adversaries to halt the progress. 3. Intrigue and Conspiracy: Tobiah's antagonism extends beyond mere mockery. Nehemiah 6:17-19 reveals that Tobiah maintained correspondence with some of the nobles of Judah, leveraging familial ties and alliances to undermine Nehemiah's leadership. "Moreover, in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters to Tobiah, and Tobiah's letters came back to them. For many in Judah were bound by oath to him, since he was the son-in-law of Shecaniah son of Arah, and his son Jehohanan had married the daughter of Meshullam son of Berechiah." 4. Tobiah's Influence in Jerusalem: Despite his opposition, Tobiah managed to secure a foothold within Jerusalem. Nehemiah 13:4-5 recounts how Eliashib the priest, who was related to Tobiah, provided him with a room in the courts of the house of God. This act of compromise was later rectified by Nehemiah, who expelled Tobiah's belongings from the temple precincts. Historical and Theological Significance: Tobiah's role in the narrative of Nehemiah highlights the persistent challenges faced by the Jewish community during the restoration period. His actions exemplify the external and internal threats to the covenant community's faithfulness and mission. Theologically, Tobiah's opposition serves as a reminder of the spiritual warfare that accompanies the work of God's people, emphasizing the need for vigilance, prayer, and steadfastness in the face of adversity. Cultural and Social Context: As an Ammonite, Tobiah's involvement in the affairs of Jerusalem underscores the complex socio-political dynamics of the region during the Persian period. The intermarriage between Jewish leaders and foreign officials, as seen in Tobiah's familial connections, reflects the broader issues of assimilation and identity that the Jewish community grappled with during this era. In summary, Tobi'jah, or Tobiah, stands as a significant figure in the narrative of Nehemiah, representing the opposition to God's work and the challenges of maintaining covenantal purity amidst external pressures. His account is a testament to the resilience and faithfulness required to fulfill God's purposes in the face of opposition. Concordance Tobi'jah (3 Occurrences)2 Chronicles 17:8 Zechariah 6:10 Zechariah 6:14 Thesaurus Tobi'jah (3 Occurrences)Tobi'jah. Tobijah, Tobi'jah. Tobijath . Multi-Version Concordance Tobi'jah (3 Occurrences). 2 Chronicles 17:8 and with them the ... /t/tobi'jah.htm - 7k Tobijah (17 Occurrences) Tobijath (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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