Shimrith, also referred to as Shomer, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament. She is noted in the context of the narrative surrounding the assassination of King Joash of Judah. The account of Shimrith is found in 2 Chronicles 24:26, where she is identified as the mother of one of the conspirators involved in the king's assassination.

Biblical Reference:

In 2 Chronicles 24:26 , the scripture states: "Those who conspired against him were Zabad son of Shimeath the Ammonitess and Jehozabad son of Shimrith the Moabitess." Here, Shimrith is described as a Moabitess, indicating her ethnic background and possibly her foreign origin, which is significant in the context of Israelite history and culture.

Context and Significance:

The assassination of King Joash is a pivotal event in the history of Judah. Joash, who initially did what was right in the eyes of the Lord under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, later turned away from God after Jehoiada's death. This apostasy led to his downfall and eventual assassination by his own servants. Shimrith's son, Jehozabad, played a crucial role in this conspiracy, highlighting the involvement of individuals from diverse backgrounds in the political and religious upheavals of the time.

Shimrith's designation as a Moabitess is noteworthy, as the Moabites were often seen as outsiders and sometimes adversaries to Israel. This detail may suggest the complex social and political interactions between Israel and neighboring nations. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over all nations and peoples, as well as the recurring motif of foreign influence within the Israelite monarchy.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Shimrith and her son in the narrative underscores the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. The involvement of foreign individuals in the internal affairs of Judah serves as a reminder of the potential for external influences to impact the spiritual and political integrity of God's chosen people. It also illustrates the biblical principle that God uses various means, including individuals from outside the covenant community, to accomplish His purposes and bring about His divine justice.

Shimrith's account, though brief, is a part of the larger narrative of God's dealings with His people, highlighting themes of faithfulness, judgment, and the intricate tapestry of human relationships within the biblical history of Israel and Judah.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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