Shemaiah is a biblical figure recognized as a descendant of King David, the illustrious monarch of Israel. His mention in the Scriptures, though brief, places him within the significant lineage of David, which holds profound theological and historical importance in the biblical narrative.

Genealogical Context

Shemaiah is identified in the genealogical records found in the First Book of Chronicles. In 1 Chronicles 3:22, the text states: "The descendants of Shecaniah: Shemaiah and his sons: Hattush, Igal, Bariah, Neariah, and Shaphat—six in all." This passage situates Shemaiah within the broader context of the post-exilic community, as the genealogies in Chronicles often serve to connect the returning exiles to their ancestral roots, emphasizing continuity and divine promise.

Role and Significance

While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Shemaiah's life or deeds, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the biblical worldview. The Chronicler's emphasis on genealogies serves to affirm the faithfulness of God in preserving the Davidic line, which is central to the messianic hope found throughout the Scriptures.

The mention of Shemaiah and his sons also highlights the restoration and rebuilding efforts of the Jewish community after the Babylonian exile. By listing the descendants of David, the Chronicler reinforces the legitimacy and divine sanction of the Davidic line, which is crucial for understanding the theological underpinnings of the messianic expectations that culminate in the New Testament.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Shemaiah's place in the Davidic genealogy is a testament to God's covenantal promises. The Davidic Covenant, as articulated in passages such as 2 Samuel 7:12-16, assures the perpetuity of David's lineage and the eventual coming of a messianic king. Shemaiah, as a descendant of David, is part of this unfolding divine plan, which finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who is recognized in the New Testament as the Son of David and the promised Messiah.

Conclusion

In summary, Shemaiah's mention in the biblical genealogies serves as a reminder of the enduring faithfulness of God to His promises and the centrality of the Davidic line in the redemptive history of Israel. His inclusion in the sacred text, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history and theology, pointing forward to the hope and fulfillment found in the coming of the Messiah.1 Chronicles 3:22
And the sons of Shechaniah; Shemaiah: and the sons of Shemaiah; Hattush, and Igeal, and Bariah, and Neariah, and Shaphat, six.
Nave's Topical Index

Books of the Hebrew Canon.
... is ascribed in the one "to Shemaiah, at Shechem ... pronounces this 'autograph' (idiographos
work of David to be ... was 'fifth from Abraham,' and a descendant of Esau. ...
/.../chapter ii books of the.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... BC The Philistine arms are described at length in the duel between David and Goliath ...
The presence of a descendant of Moses as a priest in this local sanctuary ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8. <. ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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