Gemariah, the son of Shaphan, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Jeremiah. He is noted for his association with the prophet Jeremiah and his involvement in the events surrounding the reading of Jeremiah's scroll during the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah.

Family Background and Position

Gemariah was the son of Shaphan, a scribe who served under King Josiah of Judah. Shaphan played a significant role in the religious reforms of Josiah, particularly in the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple (2 Kings 22:3-13). This connection suggests that Gemariah came from a family with a strong commitment to the worship of Yahweh and the preservation of the Law.

Role in the Book of Jeremiah

Gemariah is mentioned in Jeremiah 36, a chapter that details a critical moment in the ministry of the prophet Jeremiah. In the fourth year of King Jehoiakim's reign, Jeremiah was instructed by the LORD to write down all the words He had spoken to him concerning Israel, Judah, and all the nations, from the time of Josiah until that day (Jeremiah 36:1-2). Baruch, Jeremiah's scribe, wrote these words on a scroll.

Due to Jeremiah's restricted movement, Baruch was tasked with reading the scroll in the temple on a day of fasting. The reading took place in the chamber of Gemariah, son of Shaphan, in the upper courtyard at the entrance of the New Gate of the LORD's house (Jeremiah 36:10). This location indicates that Gemariah held a position of influence and authority, as his chamber was used for such a significant public reading.

Reaction to the Scroll

When Micaiah, the son of Gemariah, heard the words of the scroll, he reported them to the officials in the king's palace. The officials, including Gemariah, were alarmed by the contents and decided to inform the king. They advised Baruch and Jeremiah to hide, recognizing the potential danger posed by the king's reaction (Jeremiah 36:11-19).

As the scroll was read to King Jehoiakim, he displayed contempt for the prophetic message by cutting the scroll with a knife and throwing it into the fire, despite the protests of several officials, including Gemariah, Elnathan, and Delaiah, who urged the king not to burn the scroll (Jeremiah 36:23-25). This act of defiance against God's word highlighted the king's hardened heart and disregard for divine warning.

Legacy and Significance

Gemariah's involvement in this episode underscores the tension between the prophetic message and the political powers of the time. His attempt to prevent the destruction of the scroll reflects a respect for the word of God and a desire to heed the warnings delivered through Jeremiah. Although the king ultimately rejected the message, the LORD commanded Jeremiah to rewrite the scroll, ensuring that His words would endure despite human opposition (Jeremiah 36:27-28).

Gemariah's presence in this narrative serves as a reminder of the faithful remnant within Judah who sought to uphold God's word amidst widespread apostasy and rebellion. His actions, along with those of his family, illustrate the ongoing struggle between faithfulness to God and the pressures of political authority.