Sanballat
The Mocking Opponent of Jerusalem’s Restoration
Name Information
- Meaning: "Sin (moon god) gives life"
- Language of Origin: Akkadian
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Sanballat was the governor of Samaria who fiercely opposed Nehemiah’s rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. He used ridicule, intimidation, and political pressure to try to stop the work, but his schemes ultimately failed.
⏰ Post-Exilic Period
Roles
- Governor of Samaria
- Opponent of the Jews
Relationships
- Enemy: Nehemiah
- Friend: Tobiah
Story
Became angry when Nehemiah began rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls.
Mocked the Jews publicly, questioning their ability to succeed.
Planned attacks and spread rumors to frighten the workers.
Invited Nehemiah to meet in Ono, intending to harm him, but Nehemiah refused.
Failed to stop the work, which was completed in 52 days.
Spiritual Significance
- Led opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls.
- Mocked and ridiculed the workers to discourage them.
- Plotted violence and sent false accusations to the Persian king.
- Tried to lure Nehemiah into a trap to harm him.
What We Can Learn
- God’s work will always face mockery and resistance.
- Discernment protects leaders from enemy traps.
- Perseverance in God’s mission leads to victory.
Memory Verses
They all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and stir up trouble against it.
— Nehemiah 4:8
Key Passages
- Nehemiah 2:10–6:14
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