This verse from Nehemiah 6:19 is part of a broader narrative about attempts to intimidate and distract Nehemiah from rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. Let's break down what each part of the verse means:
"Also they spoke of his good deeds before me...": This refers to some of the people in Jerusalem (likely Jewish nobles who were friendly with Tobiah) praising Tobiah to Nehemiah. The purpose was likely to soften Nehemiah's stance towards Tobiah and make him more trusting or lenient. They were trying to paint Tobiah in a positive light, perhaps to foster a sense of camaraderie or obligation.
"...and reported my words to him.": These same people were acting as spies, reporting back everything Nehemiah said to Tobiah. This gave Tobiah valuable information about Nehemiah's plans, strategies, and vulnerabilities. It allowed Tobiah to anticipate Nehemiah's actions and better plan his opposition.
"Tobiah sent letters to put me in fear.": Tobiah was actively using this information to intimidate Nehemiah. The letters likely contained threats, false rumors, or manipulative language designed to demoralize Nehemiah and make him abandon the rebuilding project. Tobiah wanted to create a climate of fear and uncertainty so Nehemiah would be too afraid to continue.
In essence, the verse reveals a coordinated strategy to undermine Nehemiah:
1. Flattery and Deception: Some Jewish nobles attempted to influence Nehemiah positively towards Tobiah by highlighting his "good deeds."
2. Espionage: These individuals were also spies, relaying Nehemiah's conversations and plans to Tobiah.
3. Intimidation: Tobiah used the information he received to send threatening letters designed to instill fear in Nehemiah and derail the rebuilding efforts.
This verse highlights the challenges Nehemiah faced, not just from external enemies, but also from internal dissent and betrayal. It shows the subtle and insidious tactics used to try and break his resolve and stop the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.
This verse from Nehemiah 6:19 is part of a broader narrative about attempts to intimidate and distract Nehemiah from rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. Let's break down what each part of the verse means:
"Also they spoke of his good deeds before me...": This refers to some of the people in Jerusalem (likely Jewish nobles who were friendly with Tobiah) praising Tobiah to Nehemiah. The purpose was likely to soften Nehemiah's stance towards Tobiah and make him more trusting or lenient. They were trying to paint Tobiah in a positive light, perhaps to foster a sense of camaraderie or obligation.
"...and reported my words to him.": These same people were acting as spies, reporting back everything Nehemiah said to Tobiah. This gave Tobiah valuable information about Nehemiah's plans, strategies, and vulnerabilities. It allowed Tobiah to anticipate Nehemiah's actions and better plan his opposition.
"Tobiah sent letters to put me in fear.": Tobiah was actively using this information to intimidate Nehemiah. The letters likely contained threats, false rumors, or manipulative language designed to demoralize Nehemiah and make him abandon the rebuilding project. Tobiah wanted to create a climate of fear and uncertainty so Nehemiah would be too afraid to continue.
In essence, the verse reveals a coordinated strategy to undermine Nehemiah:
1. Flattery and Deception: Some Jewish nobles attempted to influence Nehemiah positively towards Tobiah by highlighting his "good deeds."
2. Espionage: These individuals were also spies, relaying Nehemiah's conversations and plans to Tobiah.
3. Intimidation: Tobiah used the information he received to send threatening letters designed to instill fear in Nehemiah and derail the rebuilding efforts.
This verse highlights the challenges Nehemiah faced, not just from external enemies, but also from internal dissent and betrayal. It shows the subtle and insidious tactics used to try and break his resolve and stop the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls.