סַנְבַלַּט (san.val.lat)
san.val.lat
Sanballat
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 8 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Sanballat appears eight times in the Old Testament, primarily within the book of Nehemiah. It identifies a specific historical figure: a Moabite governor from Horonaim who stood as a primary adversary to the Jewish community during the restoration of Jerusalem’s walls after the exile.
Lexical sources note that the name likely means “strength” or “power.” This meaning creates an ironic contrast with his role in the narrative, where he is depicted as powerless against the divine purpose unfolding through Nehemiah. His opposition serves to highlight the resilience of the rebuilt community rather than his own political might.
Sanballat’s presence marks a critical period in post-exilic history. He represents the external pressure faced by those returning to their ancestral land, illustrating the tensions between local powers and the re-established religious center. His repeated mention underscores the significance of this era in biblical historiography.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Sanballat appears in the Old Testament as a powerful governor who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. His name suggests strength, yet his efforts to stop God’s work ultimately failed. This story reminds us that human opposition cannot thwart divine purposes. When we face resistance or discouragement, we can trust that God is at work even when circumstances seem difficult.
The narrative shows Sanballat using ridicule, threats, and political pressure to hinder the community. Yet Nehemiah remained focused on his calling, relying on prayer rather than fear. This example encourages believers to stand firm in their faith when facing external challenges. It is not about our own power but about God’s faithfulness to complete what He begins.
Today, we may encounter similar pressures that try to distract us from our spiritual goals. Sanballat’s story invites us to persevere with courage and humility. We are reminded that God sees our efforts and will bring about His good purposes in due time. May we find strength in knowing that no opposition can stand against the plans of God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 8 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Sanballat4×
- of/ Sanballat1×
- by/ Sanballat1×
- and/ to/ Sanballat1×
- and/ Sanballat1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לְ/סַנְבַלַּ֣ט2×
- סַנְבַלַּ֨ט1×
- סַנְבַלַּ֤ט1×
- סַנְבַלַּ֣ט1×
- סַנְבַלַּ֜ט1×
- וּ/לְ/סַנְבַלַּ֖ט1×
- וְ/סַנְבַלַּ֖ט1×
Key Verses
-
Nehemiah 2:19
But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite servant, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they ridiculed us and despised us, and said, “What is this thing that you are doing? Will you rebel against the king?”
This verse highlights how Sanballat and his allies used ridicule and political accusations to discourage the rebuilding effort, showing the social pressure faced by believers.
-
Nehemiah 6:2
Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come! Let’s meet together in the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they intended to harm me.
Here Sanballat attempts to lure Nehemiah into a trap under the guise of a meeting, revealing the deceptive tactics used against those serving God.
-
Nehemiah 13:28
One of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son-in-law to Sanballat the Horonite; therefore I chased him from me.
This passage shows the lasting influence of Sanballat’s lineage, as his son-in-law violated religious boundaries, illustrating how external pressures can lead to internal compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Sanballat in the Bible?
How did Sanballat oppose Nehemiah?
What does Sanballat’s story teach us today?
Every Occurrence (8 verses across 1 books)
Nehemiah 8 verses
When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant heard of it, it grieved them exceedingly, because a man had…
Nehemiah 2:19But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite servant, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they ridiculed us and…
Nehemiah 6:1Now when it was reported to Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arabian, and to the rest of our enemies that I had built the…
Nehemiah 6:2Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come! Let’s meet together in the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they…
Nehemiah 6:5Then Sanballat sent his servant to me the same way the fifth time with an open letter in his hand,
Nehemiah 6:12I discerned, and behold, God had not sent him, but he pronounced this prophecy against me. Tobiah and Sanballat had…
Nehemiah 6:14“Remember, my God, Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and also the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of…
Nehemiah 13:28One of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son-in-law to Sanballat the Horonite; therefore I…