Topical Encyclopedia Shelemiah, the son of Abdeel, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Jeremiah. He is noted for his role in the events surrounding the prophet Jeremiah during the reign of King Jehoiakim of Judah. Shelemiah's involvement is specifically highlighted in the context of the king's reaction to the prophetic messages delivered by Jeremiah.Biblical Context The account of Shelemiah is found in Jeremiah 36, a chapter that details a significant episode in the ministry of Jeremiah. During this time, Jeremiah was instructed by God 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. This was done in the hope that the people of Judah might hear of the impending disaster and turn from their wicked ways. Baruch, the scribe, wrote down Jeremiah's words on a scroll and read them in the temple. The scroll eventually reached the ears of King Jehoiakim, who, upon hearing its contents, reacted with hostility. Instead of heeding the warning, the king cut the scroll with a knife and threw it into the fire, showing blatant disregard for the divine message. Role of Shelemiah In response to the king's command, Shelemiah, along with two other officials, was tasked with apprehending Jeremiah and Baruch. Jeremiah 36:26 states: "Then the king commanded Jerahmeel the king’s son, Seraiah son of Azriel, and Shelemiah son of Abdeel to seize Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet. But the LORD had hidden them." Shelemiah's role as one of the officials ordered to seize the prophet and his scribe underscores the tension between the prophetic message and the royal authority. His involvement illustrates the broader theme of resistance to God's word by the political powers of the time. Despite the king's command, Jeremiah and Baruch were protected by divine intervention, as the Lord had hidden them, allowing them to continue their prophetic mission. Historical and Theological Significance Shelemiah's actions are emblematic of the opposition faced by prophets who spoke truth to power. His participation in the attempt to capture Jeremiah highlights the challenges encountered by those who were called to deliver God's messages in a time of widespread apostasy and moral decline. From a theological perspective, the narrative involving Shelemiah serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and protection over His messengers. Despite human efforts to suppress the divine word, God's purposes prevail, and His servants are safeguarded to fulfill their calling. Conclusion The account of Shelemiah, son of Abdeel, is a poignant example of the conflict between divine authority and human resistance. His role in the attempted seizure of Jeremiah and Baruch reflects the broader struggle between faithfulness to God's word and the opposition of earthly powers. Through this narrative, the enduring themes of divine protection and the perseverance of God's messengers are vividly illustrated. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 36:26But the king commanded Jerahmeel the son of Hammelech, and Seraiah the son of Azriel, and Shelemiah the son of Abdeel, to take Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet: but the LORD hid them. Nave's Topical Index Library The Writing of an Ancient Book Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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