Topical Encyclopedia Sanballat is a prominent figure in the biblical narrative of Nehemiah, known for his opposition to the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. His actions and attitude exemplify contempt towards the Jewish people and their efforts to restore their city and worship.Background and Identity Sanballat is identified as a Horonite, which suggests he was from Horonaim, a city in Moab, or possibly from Beth-Horon in Samaria. He is often associated with the Samaritans, a group that had a complex and often adversarial relationship with the Jews returning from Babylonian exile. Sanballat held a position of influence and authority, likely as a governor under the Persian Empire, which controlled the region during this period. Contemptuous Actions Sanballat's contempt for the Jews is evident in several key episodes in the Book of Nehemiah. His disdain is not merely personal but is rooted in a broader political and social opposition to the re-establishment of Jerusalem as a fortified city. 1. Mockery and Ridicule: Sanballat's initial reaction to Nehemiah's efforts is one of mockery. In Nehemiah 4:1-2 , it is recorded, "Now when Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews before his associates and the army of Samaria, saying, 'What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble—burned as they are?'" 2. Conspiracy and Intimidation: Sanballat's contempt escalates from ridicule to active conspiracy. He, along with Tobiah the Ammonite and others, plots to attack Jerusalem and create confusion among the builders (Nehemiah 4:7-8). This demonstrates a strategic contempt, aiming to undermine the morale and resolve of the Jewish people through fear and intimidation. 3. False Accusations and Deception: In Nehemiah 6, Sanballat attempts to deceive Nehemiah by inviting him to a meeting in the plain of Ono, intending to harm him. When this fails, Sanballat resorts to sending an open letter accusing Nehemiah of rebellion against the Persian king, a serious charge that could have led to severe consequences (Nehemiah 6:5-7). Spiritual and Theological Implications Sanballat's contempt is not merely a political maneuver but also a spiritual affront. His opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls is symbolic of a broader resistance to God's covenantal promises to Israel. The walls of Jerusalem represent not only physical security but also the restoration of the Jewish community's identity and religious life centered around the temple. From a theological perspective, Sanballat's actions can be seen as part of the ongoing spiritual battle between the forces of God and those opposed to His purposes. His contempt is a manifestation of the enmity that exists between the people of God and those who resist His will. Legacy and Lessons Sanballat's legacy is one of opposition and contempt, serving as a cautionary example of the futility of resisting God's plans. His account highlights the challenges faced by the faithful in the pursuit of God's work and the importance of perseverance and reliance on divine strength in the face of contempt and opposition. Torrey's Topical Textbook Nehemiah 2:19But 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 you do? will you rebel against the king? Torrey's Topical Textbook Nehemiah 4:2,3 Library The Builders on the Wall Reformation In Jud??a and through Samaria - a Sketch of Samaritan History and ... Additional Evidences of Christianity, and Reflections on the Whole ... Two Essential Things Preached Before the Governor, and Council, and the House of ... Jesus Sets Out from Jud??a for Galilee. Fire! Fire! Fire! Hindrances to Revivals. Resources What do Jews believe about the afterlife? | GotQuestions.orgDo Jews believe in hell? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus warn against saying the word 'raca' in Matthew 5:22? | GotQuestions.org Contempt: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Contempt of Ministers, is a Despising of God Contempt: A Characteristic of the Wicked Contempt: Causes Saints to Cry to God Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Believing Masters Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Christ's Little Ones Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Parents Contempt: Forbidden Towards: The Poor Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Weak Brethren Contempt: Forbidden Towards: Young Ministers Contempt: Ministers should Give No Occasion For Contempt: Pride and Prosperity Prompt To Contempt: Saints Sometimes Guilty of Contempt: Self-Righteous Prompts To Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Authorities Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Christ Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Parents Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: Saints Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: The Afflicted Contempt: The Wicked Exhibit Towards: The Poor Contempt: Towards the Church: Often Punished Contempt: Towards the Church: Often Turned Into Respect Related Terms |
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