Nehemiah 4:11

KJV

And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come in the midst among them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease.

KJV (with Strong's)

And our adversaries {H6862} said {H559}, They shall not know {H3045}, neither see {H7200}, till we come {H935} in the midst {H8432} among {H8432} them, and slay {H2026} them, and cause the work {H4399} to cease {H7673}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Our enemies were saying, "They won't know or see anything, until we have already infiltrated them and begun killing them and stopping the work."

Berean Standard Bible

And our enemies said, “Before they know or see a thing, we will come into their midst, kill them, and put an end to the work.”

American Standard Version

And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come into the midst of them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nehemiah 4:11 marks a sinister escalation in the opposition faced by the Jewish exiles rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. What began as scoffing and ridicule has now hardened into a direct, murderous plot: the adversaries, led by Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, conspire to launch a surprise attack from within the city, aiming to assassinate the workers and thereby completely halt the sacred work of reconstruction. This verse vividly exposes the deep-seated malice of the opposition, whose ultimate goal was not merely to harass but to utterly destroy both the people and their God-ordained mission of restoration.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nehemiah 4:11 is strategically placed within the narrative of escalating opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. The preceding verses establish the initial phase of this resistance, beginning with the scorn and mockery of Sanballat and Tobiah in [Nehemiah 4:1-3](/nehemiah/4-1-3 "Nehemiah 4:1-3 - Sanballat and Tobiah's Mockery"). However, as the work progressed and the breaches in the wall began to close, the adversaries' anger intensified, moving beyond verbal taunts. [Nehemiah 4:7-8](/nehemiah/4-7-8 "Nehemiah 4:7-8 - Conspiracy Against Jerusalem") describes how Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, Ammonites, and Ashdodites united in a conspiracy to fight against Jerusalem and create confusion. Verse 11 specifically articulates the chilling details of their secret, violent plan: a surprise infiltration to "slay them, and cause the work to cease." This declaration signifies a dangerous shift from psychological warfare to a direct, physical threat, compelling Nehemiah and the people to adopt a strategy of prayer combined with armed vigilance, as meticulously detailed in the subsequent verses of [Nehemiah 4](/nehemiah/4 "Nehemiah 4 - Rebuilding Under Threat").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Nehemiah unfold in the post-exilic period, specifically in the mid-5th century BC, following the return of Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity. Jerusalem lay in ruins, its walls broken down, leaving its inhabitants vulnerable to attack and without a clear sense of national or religious identity. Rebuilding the walls was far more than a mere construction project; it was a profound act of national restoration, a tangible symbol of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, and a necessary step for establishing security and a degree of self-governance under Persian suzerainty. The surrounding peoples—Sanballat (governor of Samaria), Tobiah (an Ammonite official), and Geshem (an Arabian leader)—viewed the resurgence of Jerusalem as a direct threat to their regional power, influence, and economic interests. Their opposition was rooted in political jealousy, territorial ambition, and likely a deep-seated antagonism toward the Jewish people and their monotheistic God. An unwalled city was a sign of weakness and defeat; a rebuilt wall signified strength, independence, and divine favor, which these adversaries sought to prevent at all costs.
* **Key Themes:** Nehemiah 4:11 powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent throughout the book and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Escalating Opposition** that frequently accompanies God's work. What begins as derision and scorn, as seen in [Nehemiah 4:1](/nehemiah/4-1 "Nehemiah 4:1 - Sanballat's Scorn"), quickly escalates to a violent conspiracy, underscoring the relentless and often intensifying nature of spiritual and physical resistance against divine purposes. Secondly, the verse starkly reveals the **Adversarial Intent** to not only harm God's people ("slay them") but also to frustrate God's plan ("cause the work to cease"). This dual objective exposes a profound hatred for both the agents and the object of God's redemptive activity. Thirdly, it speaks to the reality of **Spiritual Warfare**, where physical threats are often manifestations of deeper spiritual antagonism. The rebuilding of the wall was a spiritual endeavor, symbolizing the restoration of God's people and their covenant relationship, making the opposition a direct challenge to God's sovereignty and faithfulness, a theme echoed in passages like [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare Against Principalities and Powers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Adversaries (Hebrew, _tsar'_):** The Hebrew word צָר (_tsar_), derived from a root meaning "to crowd" or "to bind," signifies someone who is "narrow" or "tight," metaphorically representing a tight place, trouble, or an opponent who crowds or distresses. In this context, it powerfully describes the enemies of Judah as those who cause distress, who press in, and who seek to constrict or trouble God's people. This term encapsulates their hostile intent and the oppressive nature of their opposition, highlighting their role as sources of anguish and tribulation for the returning exiles.
* **Slay (Hebrew, _hārāg'_):** The Hebrew verb הָרַג (_hārāg_) is a primitive root meaning "to smite with deadly intent," "to kill," or "to murder." Its use here reveals the ultimate, brutal objective of the adversaries: to physically eliminate the workers. This was not merely about stopping the work through intimidation or sabotage; it was about removing the very people performing the work, demonstrating the depth of their malice and the extreme, violent measures they were willing to take to achieve their goal. It underscores the severity of the threat Nehemiah and the people faced.
* **Cease (Hebrew, _shâbath'_):** The Hebrew verb שָׁבַת (_shâbath_) is a primitive root meaning "to repose," "to desist from exertion," or "to stop completely." It is the root from which the word "Sabbath" is derived, implying a complete cessation or termination. Here, it signifies the adversaries' desire for a permanent and absolute halt to the rebuilding efforts. They did not wish for a temporary pause or a slowdown, but for the entire project to be brought to an irreversible standstill, thereby crushing the hopes, security, and future of the Jewish community in Jerusalem.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And our adversaries said,"**: This opening phrase immediately identifies the source of the grave threat, emphasizing that the plot was not merely a rumor but a declared intention among the enemies of Judah. This declaration, likely overheard or revealed by spies, sets a tone of direct confrontation and reveals the adversaries' collective resolve and malevolent purpose.
* **"They shall not know, neither see,"**: This clause highlights the crucial element of surprise central to the adversaries' strategy. Their plan was to strike without warning, before the workers could become aware of their presence or discern their murderous intentions. This covert approach aimed to maximize their destructive impact, ensuring the builders were caught off guard and unable to defend themselves effectively, thus increasing the likelihood of success for their violent scheme.
* **"till we come in the midst among them,"**: This specifies the tactical approach: an infiltration into the very heart of the construction site or the city itself. The phrase "in the midst among them" suggests a close-quarters, personal attack, implying a desire for direct engagement and the elimination of targets at close range, preventing any escape or organized resistance. It speaks to the intimate and brutal nature of the intended assault.
* **"and slay them,"**: This is the brutal core of their intention, the primary means to their ultimate end. As analyzed above, it signifies their murderous objective: to kill the builders. This was the most direct and violent method they conceived to achieve their goal, demonstrating their willingness to resort to extreme violence to achieve their ends.
* **"and cause the work to cease."**: This final clause articulates the ultimate strategic objective of the entire plot. The assassination of the workers was not an end in itself but a means to a greater end: the complete and permanent cessation of the wall-building project. It underscores that the adversaries' primary aim was to frustrate God's purposes for Jerusalem and prevent the spiritual and physical restoration of the Jewish people.

#### Literary Devices
Nehemiah 4:11 employs several **Literary Devices** to heighten the dramatic tension and convey the gravity of the threat. **Foreshadowing** is powerfully evident as the adversaries' explicit declaration of their murderous intent prepares the reader for the subsequent measures Nehemiah takes to arm and protect the builders, creating a sense of impending crisis. The verse also utilizes **Dramatic Irony**, as the reader is privy to the enemies' secret plot ("They shall not know, neither see"), while the builders themselves are initially unaware, thereby generating a palpable sense of vulnerability and danger. Furthermore, there is a stark **Contrast** drawn between the diligent, prayerful work of the Jewish people and the sinister, destructive machinations of their enemies, emphasizing the spiritual battle at play. The direct, unvarnished declaration of their intent ("slay them, and cause the work to cease") serves as a form of **Direct Statement** that leaves no ambiguity about the adversaries' malice and their ultimate, destructive goal.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The declaration in Nehemiah 4:11 that adversaries seek to "slay them, and cause the work to cease" resonates deeply with a consistent biblical theme: that divine endeavors and God's people will inevitably face formidable opposition. This resistance is often characterized by deception, violence, and a clear intent to thwart God's redemptive plans. The spiritual dimension of this conflict is paramount, as the physical threats against the builders of Jerusalem's wall mirror the unseen battles against "principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" ([Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - The Armor of God and Spiritual Warfare")). Just as Nehemiah's enemies sought to dismantle the physical restoration of God's city, so too do forces of darkness seek to undermine the spiritual building of God's kingdom and the flourishing of His people. This verse serves as a timeless reminder that perseverance in faith requires vigilance, prayer, and a firm trust in God's ultimate sovereignty over all opposing forces, for the enemy's aim is always to discourage, divide, and ultimately destroy the work of God.

* [Psalm 2:1-4](/psalms/2-1-4 "Psalm 2:1-4 - The Futility of Opposing God")
* [Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hell Shall Not Prevail")
* [1 Peter 5:8](/1_peter/5-8 "1 Peter 5:8 - Be Sober, Be Vigilant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nehemiah 4:11 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers navigating opposition in their own lives and ministries. The adversaries' strategy—to act secretly, violently, and with the aim of completely stopping the work—is a timeless tactic of spiritual enemies. For us, "the work" might be personal spiritual growth, family discipleship, church ministry, a specific calling from God, or any endeavor aligned with God's kingdom. Opposition may manifest not only as overt hostility but also as subtle discouragement, internal division, external pressures, or even self-doubt that seeks to "slay" our resolve and "cause the work to cease." This verse calls us to profound vigilance: to discern the true nature and intent of the opposition, to recognize that the enemy aims to demoralize, incapacitate, and ultimately halt God's purposes through us. It reminds us that our spiritual battles are real, and while the threat may feel overwhelming, our response must be rooted in both prayerful dependence on God and practical, wise action, just as Nehemiah famously combined prayer with setting a watch ([Nehemiah 4:9](/nehemiah/4-9 "Nehemiah 4:9 - Nehemiah's Prayer and Vigilance")). Perseverance in the face of such determined opposition is not merely an act of stubbornness but a profound testament to faith and a necessary characteristic of those committed to God's kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do you recognize the "adversaries" in your own life or ministry, and what tactics do they typically employ to "cause the work to cease"?**
* **In what ways might the enemy seek to "slay" your spiritual resolve, personal commitment, or joy in God's calling?**
* **What is your immediate, gut reaction when faced with escalating opposition to something you believe God has called you to do?**
* **How can you cultivate a balanced approach of prayerful dependence and practical vigilance in the face of spiritual attacks, similar to Nehemiah's example?**

### FAQ

**Who were the main adversaries mentioned in Nehemiah 4?**

Answer: The primary adversaries mentioned in Nehemiah 4 were Sanballat the Horonite (governor of Samaria), Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arabian. These individuals, along with their respective peoples (Samaritans, Ammonites, Arabs, and Ashdodites), viewed the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls as a direct political and economic threat to their regional power and influence. Their opposition escalated from mockery and scorn in [Nehemiah 4:1-3](/nehemiah/4-1-3 "Nehemiah 4:1-3 - Sanballat and Tobiah's Scorn") to a full-blown conspiracy to attack and kill the Jewish workers, as articulated in [Nehemiah 4:11](/nehemiah/4-11 "Nehemiah 4:11 - The Adversaries' Plot").

**What was the significance of the wall rebuilding project?**

Answer: The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was profoundly significant on multiple levels for the returned exiles. Historically and culturally, it was essential for the physical security of the city and its inhabitants, providing protection against raids and invasions that had plagued them since the destruction of Jerusalem. Spiritually and symbolically, it represented the restoration of the Jewish people's identity, dignity, and covenant relationship with God after their return from Babylonian exile. A walled city was a sign of strength, independence, and divine favor, signifying the re-establishment of Jerusalem as the spiritual and political center for the returned exiles and a place where they could worship God securely. It was seen as a divine mandate, a work of God that would solidify their place in the land and enable them to live out their faith more securely, as detailed throughout [the book of Nehemiah](/nehemiah/1 "The Book of Nehemiah - Rebuilding Jerusalem").

**How did Nehemiah respond to this threat?**

Answer: Nehemiah's response to the adversaries' murderous plot was a masterful blend of spiritual reliance and practical wisdom, a model for leadership in crisis. Upon hearing of the conspiracy, he first turned to God in prayer, as seen in [Nehemiah 4:9](/nehemiah/4-9 "Nehemiah 4:9 - Nehemiah's Prayer and Vigilance"), stating, "Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them." He then implemented immediate and decisive practical measures: he armed the people, organized them into shifts, and ensured that those working on the wall were also prepared to fight. Many workers carried their tools in one hand and a weapon in the other, and Nehemiah himself remained vigilant, never taking off his clothes, as described in [Nehemiah 4:13-23](/nehemiah/4-13-23 "Nehemiah 4:13-23 - Armed Builders and Constant Vigilance"). This dual approach of prayerful dependence and strategic vigilance allowed the work to continue despite the intense opposition, demonstrating that faith does not negate the need for prudent action.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nehemiah 4:11, with its depiction of adversaries seeking to "slay them, and cause the work to cease," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the ongoing work of His church. Just as the enemies of Nehemiah sought to halt the building of a physical wall, so too did the forces of darkness and human opposition conspire to "slay" Jesus, the ultimate builder of God's spiritual temple and kingdom. From the moment of His birth, Herod sought to kill Him ([Matthew 2:13](/matthew/2-13 "Matthew 2:13 - Herod's Attempt to Kill Jesus")), and throughout His ministry, religious and political leaders plotted His demise ([John 7:1](/john/7-1 "John 7:1 - Jesus Avoids Judea")). Their ultimate aim was to "cause the work to cease"—to prevent the establishment of His kingdom, the redemption of humanity, and the triumph over sin and death. However, in His crucifixion, what appeared to be the ultimate victory of the adversaries was, in fact, God's perfect plan unfolding. Through His death, Christ disarmed principalities and powers, triumphing over them by the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). His resurrection decisively proved that no adversary, not even death itself, could "cause the work to cease." Now, as the head of His Church, Christ continues to build His kingdom, declaring that "the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hell Shall Not Prevail")). Believers, as living stones in this spiritual temple ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")), continue to face opposition, but we do so with the assurance that Christ has already overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Christ's Victory Over the World")) and will bring His redemptive work to its glorious completion, demonstrating His unwavering sovereignty.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 47:11

Therefore shall evil come upon thee; thou shalt not know from whence it riseth: and mischief shall fall upon thee; thou shalt not be able to put it off: and desolation shall come upon thee suddenly, [which] thou shalt not know.

Psalms 56:6

They gather themselves together, they hide themselves, they mark my steps, when they wait for my soul.

Acts 23:21

But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.

1 Thessalonians 5:2

For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

2 Samuel 17:2

And I will come upon him while he [is] weary and weak handed, and will make him afraid: and all the people that [are] with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only:

Judges 20:29

And Israel set liers in wait round about Gibeah.

Judges 20:48

And the men of Israel turned again upon the children of Benjamin, and smote them with the edge of the sword, as well the men of [every] city, as the beast, and all that came to hand: also they set on fire all the cities that they came to.