Shimshai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Ezra, specifically in the context of the opposition faced by the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. He is identified as a scribe, a role that involved duties such as writing, recording, and possibly advising in administrative matters. His actions are recorded during the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia, a period marked by significant challenges for the Jewish community attempting to restore their religious and cultural center.

Biblical References:

Shimshai is prominently mentioned in Ezra 4, where he is depicted as an adversary to the rebuilding efforts of the Jewish exiles. The text states:

"At the beginning of the reign of Xerxes, an accusation was lodged against the people of Judah and Jerusalem. And in the days of Artaxerxes, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes. The letter was written in Aramaic and then translated. Rehum the commander and Shimshai the scribe wrote the letter against Jerusalem to King Artaxerxes as follows:" (Ezra 4:6-8).

Shimshai, along with Rehum, played a significant role in drafting and sending a letter to King Artaxerxes, which was intended to halt the reconstruction of Jerusalem. The letter accused the Jews of planning to rebel against the king, suggesting that the completion of the city and its walls would lead to a loss of revenue and control for the Persian Empire. The letter reads:

"The king should know that the Jews who came up to us from you have gone to Jerusalem and are rebuilding that rebellious and wicked city. They are restoring the walls and repairing the foundations." (Ezra 4:12).

The efforts of Shimshai and his associates were successful in temporarily stopping the construction, as King Artaxerxes ordered the cessation of the work until further notice. This opposition highlights the political and social challenges faced by the Jewish community during this period of restoration.

Role and Significance:

As a scribe, Shimshai's role was crucial in the administration and communication of official matters. Scribes were often well-educated and held positions of influence, serving as intermediaries between local authorities and the central government. Shimshai's involvement in the opposition against the Jews underscores the broader geopolitical tensions of the time, as various groups sought to maintain their power and influence in the region.

Shimshai's actions are indicative of the broader resistance faced by the Jewish exiles, who were not only rebuilding a physical structure but also re-establishing their identity and religious practices. The opposition from figures like Shimshai serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges encountered by the people of God throughout biblical history.

Historical and Theological Context:

The account of Shimshai and the opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem is set against the backdrop of the Persian Empire's policy of allowing exiled peoples to return to their homelands. This policy, initiated by Cyrus the Great, was part of a broader strategy to stabilize the empire by promoting local governance and religious practices. However, the return of the Jewish exiles and their efforts to rebuild the temple were met with suspicion and hostility by neighboring peoples, who feared the resurgence of a strong Jewish presence in the region.

From a theological perspective, the opposition led by Shimshai can be seen as part of the ongoing spiritual battle faced by the people of God. Despite the temporary setbacks, the biblical narrative emphasizes God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. The eventual completion of the temple and the restoration of worship in Jerusalem serve as a testament to God's providential care and the perseverance of His people in the face of adversity.Ezra 4:8,9,17,23
Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe wrote a letter against Jerusalem to Artaxerxes the king in this sort:
Nave's Topical Index

8124. Shimshay -- a scribe who opposed Isr.
... Shimshai. Word Origin (Aramaic) from shemash Definition a scribe who opposed
Isr. NASB Word Usage Shimshai (4). Shimshai. (Aramaic ...
/hebrew/8124.htm - 6k

Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses.
... or to confiscation of goods, or to imprisonment.' This is the conclusion of a letter
that king Artaxerxes gave to Ezra the priest and scribe, when he granted ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/of antichrist and his ruin .htm

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