Sheshbazzar is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. His name appears in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, and he is often associated with Zerubbabel, another prominent leader of the Jewish returnees. The relationship between Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel has been a subject of scholarly debate, with some suggesting that Sheshbazzar is another name for Zerubbabel.

Biblical References

Sheshbazzar is first introduced in the book of Ezra. In Ezra 1:8, it is recorded: "Cyrus king of Persia brought these out by the hand of Mithredath the treasurer, who counted them out to Sheshbazzar the prince of Judah." This passage indicates that Sheshbazzar was entrusted by King Cyrus with the sacred vessels of the temple, which had been taken by Nebuchadnezzar during the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem.

Further, Ezra 5:14-16 recounts: "And the gold and silver articles of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple in Jerusalem and had carried to Babylon, King Cyrus brought out of Babylon and gave to a man named Sheshbazzar, whom he appointed governor. And he told him, 'Take these articles and go, deposit them in the temple in Jerusalem, and rebuild the house of God on its site.' So this Sheshbazzar came and laid the foundations of the house of God in Jerusalem." This passage highlights Sheshbazzar's role in the initial efforts to rebuild the temple, emphasizing his leadership and authority as governor.

Identity and Role

The identity of Sheshbazzar has been a topic of discussion among biblical scholars and theologians. Some propose that Sheshbazzar and Zerubbabel are the same person, with Sheshbazzar being a Babylonian or Persian name given to Zerubbabel. This theory is supported by the fact that both figures are described as leaders of the Jewish returnees and are associated with the rebuilding of the temple.

Zerubbabel, a descendant of King David, is more prominently featured in the biblical narrative. He is mentioned in the genealogies of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:12-13; Luke 3:27) and is recognized for his significant role in the restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. Haggai 1:1 refers to Zerubbabel as the governor of Judah, a title also attributed to Sheshbazzar in Ezra 5:14.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the figure of Sheshbazzar, whether distinct from or identical to Zerubbabel, represents the fulfillment of God's promise to restore His people to their land after the Babylonian exile. The return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple were pivotal events in Jewish history, symbolizing God's faithfulness and the renewal of the covenant relationship with His people.

The role of Sheshbazzar in this restoration process underscores the divine orchestration of historical events, as prophesied by Jeremiah and Isaiah. The decree of Cyrus, which facilitated the return, is seen as a fulfillment of God's word, demonstrating His sovereignty over nations and rulers.

In summary, Sheshbazzar is a key figure in the post-exilic period, associated with the initial efforts to restore the temple in Jerusalem. Whether he is a separate individual or another name for Zerubbabel, his contribution to the Jewish return and rebuilding efforts is an integral part of the biblical narrative of restoration and hope.Ezra 1:8,11
Even those did Cyrus king of Persia bring forth by the hand of Mithredath the treasurer, and numbered them to Sheshbazzar, the prince of Judah.
Nave's Topical Index

Ezra 5:14,16
And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered to one, whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor;
Nave's Topical Index

The Historical Books.
... The Greek name Paraleipomena, things omitted, has its ... order of succession, as given
by profane ... example, Daniel and Belteshazzar, Zerubbabel and Sheshbazzar. ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xx the historical books.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... The only certain thing we know concerning him is his name; all the rest is ... The Iranians
themselves averred that he had given the world twenty-one volumes"the ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

Old Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org

Who was Ezra in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Sheshbazzar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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