Shear-Jashub is a significant yet often overlooked figure in the Old Testament, specifically within the prophetic ministry of Isaiah. His name, which means "A Remnant Shall Return," serves as both a prophetic symbol and a message of hope for the people of Israel during a tumultuous period in their history.

Biblical Context and Significance

Shear-Jashub is mentioned in the Book of Isaiah, where he is identified as one of the sons of the prophet Isaiah. His presence is noted in Isaiah 7:3: "Then the LORD said to Isaiah, 'Go out with your son Shear-Jashub to meet Ahaz at the end of the aqueduct that feeds the upper pool, on the road to the Launderer’s Field.'" . This encounter occurs during the reign of King Ahaz of Judah, a time when the kingdom faced the threat of invasion from the combined forces of Syria and Israel.

The name Shear-Jashub itself is deeply symbolic. It encapsulates a central theme of Isaiah's prophetic message: the promise that despite impending judgment and exile, a faithful remnant of Israel will return to the land. This theme of a remnant is recurrent throughout the prophetic literature and is pivotal in understanding God's covenantal faithfulness and redemptive plan for His people.

Theological Implications

The presence of Shear-Jashub alongside Isaiah during the meeting with King Ahaz underscores the prophetic assurance of God's sovereignty and the certainty of His promises. The name "A Remnant Shall Return" serves as a tangible reminder to Ahaz and the people of Judah that God's purposes will prevail despite the immediate threats and challenges they face.

In the broader theological narrative, Shear-Jashub's name foreshadows the eventual return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, as well as the ultimate restoration and redemption found in the coming of the Messiah. The concept of a remnant is also echoed in the New Testament, where the Apostle Paul references it in Romans 9:27, affirming the continuity of God's salvific plan through history.

Historical and Prophetic Role

While Shear-Jashub himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative beyond his symbolic presence, his inclusion in the text highlights the importance of prophetic signs and names in conveying God's messages. Isaiah's use of his son's name as a living prophecy illustrates the intimate connection between the prophet's personal life and his divine calling.

In the historical context, the prophecy associated with Shear-Jashub would have provided a measure of hope and reassurance to the faithful in Judah. It affirmed that despite the nation's unfaithfulness and the resulting judgment, God's covenant with His people remained unbroken, and His promises would ultimately be fulfilled.

Conclusion

Shear-Jashub, though briefly mentioned, embodies a profound theological truth central to the message of Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. His name serves as a testament to God's enduring faithfulness and the hope of restoration for His people. Through Shear-Jashub, the promise of a remnant returning becomes a beacon of hope, pointing to the ultimate redemption and fulfillment of God's promises in Christ.Isaiah 7:3
Then said the LORD to Isaiah, Go forth now to meet Ahaz, you, and Shearjashub your son, at the end of the conduit of the upper pool in the highway of the fuller's field;
Nave's Topical Index

7610. Shear Yashub -- "a remnant shall return," son of Isaiah
... Word Origin from shear and shub Definition "a remnant shall return," son
of Isaiah NASB Word Usage Shear-jashub (1). Shear-jashub. ...
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