1 Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and [that] there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;)
2 That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in [some one of] the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief.
3 And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I [am] doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?
4 Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner.
5 Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand;
6 Wherein [was] written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith [it, that] thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words.
7 And thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, [There is] a king in Judah: and now shall it be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together.
8 Then I sent unto him, saying, There are no such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart.
9 For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, [O God], strengthen my hands.
10 Afterward I came unto 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 thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay thee.
11 And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who [is there], that, [being] as I [am], would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in.
12 And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him.
13 Therefore [was] he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin, and [that] they might have [matter] for an evil report, that they might reproach me.
14 My God, think thou upon Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and on the prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have put me in fear.
15 So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth [day] of [the month] Elul, in fifty and two days.
16 And it came to pass, that when all our enemies heard [thereof], and all the heathen that [were] about us saw [these things], they were much cast down in their own eyes: for they perceived that this work was wrought of our God.
17 Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters unto Tobiah, and [the letters] of Tobiah came unto them.
18 For [there were] many in Judah sworn unto him, because he [was] the son in law of Shechaniah the son of Arah; and his son Johanan had taken the daughter of Meshullam the son of Berechiah.
19 Also they reported his good deeds before me, and uttered my words to him. [And] Tobiah sent letters to put me in fear.
Summary of Nehemiah Chapter 6
Nehemiah Chapter 6 recounts the challenges faced by Nehemiah as he continues to lead the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls amidst opposition and conspiracy. This chapter highlights the themes of perseverance, integrity, and the importance of faith in the face of adversity.
Key Events
- Opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah: The chapter opens with Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab attempting to undermine Nehemiah’s efforts by inviting him to meet with them in the plain of Ono. Nehemiah perceives their intentions as a plot to harm him.
- Nehemiah’s Response: Nehemiah firmly declines their invitation, stating that he is engaged in a great work and cannot be distracted. He responds to their repeated requests with the same refusal, demonstrating his commitment to the task at hand.
- False Prophecy: The chapter continues with an attempt by Shemaiah, a false prophet, to intimidate Nehemiah into hiding in the temple. Nehemiah discerns the deception and refuses to act against God’s law, showcasing his discernment and integrity.
- Completion of the Wall: Despite the opposition, the wall is completed in just 52 days. This accomplishment serves as a testament to Nehemiah’s leadership and the support of the people.
- Recognition of God’s Hand: The completion of the wall leads to recognition among the surrounding nations that God was with Nehemiah and the Israelites, instilling fear in their hearts.
Thematic Analysis
- Perseverance in Leadership: Nehemiah’s refusal to be distracted by the threats and invitations from his enemies illustrates the importance of focus and determination in leadership. His commitment to the task despite external pressures serves as a model for effective leadership.
- Discernment and Integrity: Nehemiah’s ability to recognize false prophecies and avoid manipulation highlights the necessity of discernment in spiritual and leadership contexts. His integrity in adhering to God’s laws reinforces the idea that true leadership is grounded in moral principles.
- Divine Assistance: The successful completion of the wall in a remarkably short time frame emphasizes the belief that God supports and empowers those who are faithful to His calling. This serves as an encouragement to believers facing their own challenges.
- Community Involvement: The collective effort of the Israelites in rebuilding the wall illustrates the strength of community and collaboration in achieving a common goal. Nehemiah’s leadership fosters unity among the people.
Character Analysis
- Nehemiah: A dedicated and resilient leader who prioritizes his mission over personal safety. His unwavering faith and commitment to God’s work exemplify strong leadership qualities.
- Sanballat and Tobiah: Representing opposition and hostility, they embody the challenges that leaders often face. Their attempts to undermine Nehemiah reflect the broader theme of spiritual warfare.
- Shemaiah: A false prophet whose actions illustrate the dangers of deception and the importance of discernment in spiritual matters. His attempt to lead Nehemiah astray serves as a warning against false counsel.
Conclusion
Nehemiah Chapter 6 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, integrity, and faith in the face of adversity. Nehemiah’s leadership not only leads to the physical restoration of Jerusalem’s walls but also strengthens the spiritual resolve of the people. This chapter encourages readers to remain steadfast in their commitments and to trust in God’s guidance amidst challenges.
