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Book of Nehemiah - Chapter 4 - Verse 3

4:3
Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Nehemiah in the Bible refers to a moment when Tobiah the Ammonite was speaking to Nehemiah regarding the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem. Tobiah was expressing doubt about the strength and durability of the wall that was being reconstructed. He used the analogy of a fox climbing on the wall, suggesting that even a small animal could cause damage to the structure. This remark was meant to undermine the efforts of Nehemiah and the people rebuilding the wall, highlighting Tobiah's skepticism and lack of faith in their work.

Despite Tobiah's negative comments, Nehemiah and his followers continued their work with determination and faith. They faced numerous challenges and opposition from those who sought to disrupt their progress, but they remained steadfast in their mission to rebuild the wall. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of doubt and criticism. It emphasizes the resilience of the Israelites and their unwavering commitment to restoring their city and community.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Nehemiah, we see Tobiah the Ammonite expressing doubt about the strength and durability of the wall the people of Jerusalem were rebuilding. His statement implies that even if a fox were to climb on it, the wall would crumble. This interpretation reveals Tobiah's cynicism and skepticism towards the work being done by the Israelites. The theological implications of Tobiah's words could suggest a lack of faith in God's protection and provision for His people. Additionally, the mention of a fox could symbolize deceit and cunning, hinting at Tobiah's own deceitful nature as an enemy of the Israelites. This verse serves as a reminder of the challenges and opposition faced by those seeking to follow God's will, highlighting the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of adversity.

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