Topical Encyclopedia Selemia is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. The name "Selemia" is a variant of "Shelemiah," which appears in several passages throughout the Scriptures. The name is of Hebrew origin, meaning "God has repaid" or "God is peace."Biblical References: 1. Genealogical Context: Selemia is primarily recognized in the context of genealogies, which are significant in the Bible for tracing the lineage of tribes, families, and individuals. These records often highlight the fulfillment of God's promises through specific family lines. 2. Priestly Lineage: In the context of the priestly lineage, Shelemiah is mentioned as one of the priests who returned from the Babylonian exile with Zerubbabel. This return was a pivotal moment in Jewish history, marking the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple worship. The priests played a crucial role in re-establishing the religious practices and maintaining the spiritual integrity of the community. 3. Role in the Temple: The descendants of Shelemiah were involved in various temple duties. The temple was the center of worship and religious life in Israel, and those who served there were tasked with maintaining the sanctity and order of worship. The responsibilities included offering sacrifices, teaching the Law, and ensuring the proper conduct of religious ceremonies. 4. Mention in Nehemiah: In the book of Nehemiah, Shelemiah is noted among those who helped rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah 3:30 states, "After him, Hananiah son of Shelemiah and Hanun, the sixth son of Zalaph, repaired another section." This highlights the collaborative effort of the Israelites in restoring their city and fortifying it against external threats. 5. Guardianship of the Gates: The descendants of Shelemiah were also appointed as gatekeepers. The role of a gatekeeper was vital for the security and order of the temple and the city. They controlled access, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter the sacred spaces. Theological Significance: The mention of Selemia, or Shelemiah, in the Bible underscores the importance of faithfulness and service in the fulfillment of God's plans. The genealogies and records of service highlight how God uses individuals and families to accomplish His purposes throughout history. The role of Selemia's descendants in the temple and the rebuilding of Jerusalem serves as a testament to the enduring faith and dedication required to uphold God's covenant with His people. Historical Context: The period following the Babylonian exile was one of rebuilding and renewal for the Jewish people. The returnees faced numerous challenges, including opposition from surrounding nations and the need to re-establish their identity and religious practices. Figures like Selemia and his descendants were instrumental in this process, contributing to the physical and spiritual restoration of the nation. Conclusion: While Selemia may not be a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical and historical records reflects the broader theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Through the service and dedication of individuals like Selemia, the continuity of worship and the preservation of the faith community were ensured, paving the way for the coming of the Messiah. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SELEMIAsel-e-mi'-a: One of the swift scribes whose services Ezra was commanded to secure (2 Esdras 14:24). The name is probably identical with SELEMIAS of 1 Esdras 9:34 (which see). Thesaurus Selemia... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia SELEMIA. sel-e-mi'-a: One of the swift scribes whose services Ezra was commanded to secure (2 Esdras 14:24). ... /s/selemia.htm - 6k Selemias Seled (1 Occurrence) Shelemiah (10 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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