Shimeath is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the assassination of King Joash of Judah. Her account is found in the historical narratives of the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Shimeath is noted as the mother of one of the conspirators who assassinated King Joash, a significant event in the history of the southern kingdom of Judah.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 12:20-21 : "His servants conspired against him and killed Joash at the house of Millo, on the road that goes down to Silla. His servants Jozabad son of Shimeath and Jehozabad son of Shomer struck him down, and he died. And they buried him with his fathers in the City of David, and his son Amaziah reigned in his place."

2. 2 Chronicles 24:25-26 : "When the Arameans withdrew, they left Joash severely wounded. His servants conspired against him because of the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest, and they killed him on his bed. So he died and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings. Those who conspired against Joash were Zabad son of Shimeath the Ammonitess and Jehozabad son of Shimrith the Moabitess."

Historical Context:

Shimeath is identified as an Ammonitess, indicating her non-Israelite origin. The Ammonites were a neighboring people often in conflict with Israel and Judah. Her son, Zabad (also called Jozabad in 2 Kings), played a crucial role in the conspiracy against King Joash. The assassination of Joash was a result of political and religious tensions, as Joash had turned away from the reforms of Jehoiada the priest and had allowed idolatry to flourish in Judah.

Theological Significance:

The involvement of Shimeath's son in the assassination of Joash highlights the complex interplay of foreign influence and internal strife within the kingdom of Judah. The narrative underscores the consequences of turning away from covenant faithfulness and the divine judgment that follows. Joash's failure to maintain the reforms initiated by Jehoiada and his subsequent assassination serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of steadfastness in faith and leadership.

Cultural and Social Insights:

Shimeath's designation as an Ammonitess provides insight into the diverse ethnic and cultural landscape of the ancient Near East. Her presence in the biblical narrative reflects the interactions and intermarriages between Israelites and surrounding nations, which often led to religious syncretism and political alliances that were contrary to the covenantal laws given to Israel.

Legacy:

While Shimeath herself is not a central figure in the biblical text, her mention as the mother of an assassin places her within the broader narrative of Judah's monarchy and its challenges. Her account serves as a reminder of the far-reaching impact of familial and cultural influences on the course of Israelite history.2 Kings 12:21
For Jozachar the son of Shimeath, and Jehozabad the son of Shomer, his servants, smote him, and he died; and they buried him with his fathers in the city of David: and Amaziah his son reigned in his stead.
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2 Chronicles 24:26
And these are they that conspired against him; Zabad the son of Shimeath an Ammonitess, and Jehozabad the son of Shimrith a Moabitess.
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