Topical Encyclopedia Sharezer is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Assyrian Empire and its interactions with the Kingdom of Judah. He is identified as one of the sons of Sennacherib, the powerful Assyrian king known for his military campaigns and his role in the history of Israel and Judah.Biblical References: Sharezer is primarily mentioned in the Book of 2 Kings and the Book of Isaiah, which recount the events surrounding the assassination of his father, Sennacherib. The relevant passages are found in 2 Kings 19:37 and Isaiah 37:38. Both passages describe the same historical event: 2 Kings 19:37 : "One day, while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer struck him down with the sword and escaped to the land of Ararat. And his son Esarhaddon reigned in his place." Isaiah 37:38 : "And as he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer struck him down with the sword and escaped to the land of Ararat. And his son Esarhaddon reigned in his place." Historical Context: Sennacherib reigned as king of Assyria from 705 to 681 BC. His reign is noted for the expansion of the Assyrian Empire and his military campaigns against Babylon and the Kingdom of Judah. The biblical narrative highlights Sennacherib's siege of Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah, an event that ended with the miraculous deliverance of the city as described in 2 Kings 19 and Isaiah 37. The assassination of Sennacherib by his sons, including Sharezer, is a significant event that marked the end of his reign. The motive behind the assassination is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, but it is understood within the broader context of political intrigue and power struggles common in ancient Near Eastern monarchies. Cultural and Theological Significance: The account of Sharezer and the assassination of Sennacherib serves as a testament to the fulfillment of prophetic words spoken against the Assyrian king. Earlier in 2 Kings 19:7, the prophet Isaiah, speaking on behalf of the LORD, foretold the downfall of Sennacherib: "Behold, I will put a spirit in him so that he will hear a rumor and return to his own land, where I will cause him to fall by the sword." This prophecy underscores the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations and rulers, demonstrating that even the mightiest of kings are subject to divine judgment and intervention. The narrative also highlights the theme of divine justice, as Sennacherib, who had defied the God of Israel, ultimately met his end in a manner consistent with the prophetic word. Legacy: Sharezer's role in the biblical narrative is brief but significant. His actions, along with those of his brother Adrammelech, led to a change in the Assyrian leadership, with Esarhaddon ascending to the throne. This transition of power had implications for the region, as Esarhaddon continued to engage with the kingdoms of the Near East, including Judah. In summary, Sharezer is remembered as a key figure in the dramatic conclusion of Sennacherib's reign, illustrating the interplay of divine prophecy and historical events in the biblical account. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 19:37And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword: and they escaped into the land of Armenia. And Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 37:38 Library Babylonia and Assyria Appendices 'He Uttered his Voice, the Earth Melted' The Triumph of Faith The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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