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.
Many people in Judah had sworn loyalty to him because he was married to the daughter of Shechaniah (Arah's son), and his son Johanan had married the daughter of Meshullam (Berechiah's son).
This verse explains that Tobiah had influential allies in Judah through his family marriages, which gave him political power and support.
📚 Historical Context
Tobiah was an Ammonite official who opposed Nehemiah's rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. In ancient times, marriage alliances were commonly used to create political bonds and gain influence. These family connections meant that Tobiah had supporters among the Jewish nobles who felt obligated to protect him, making Nehemiah's work more difficult.
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