Topical Encyclopedia Overview:Sheal is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical records of the post-exilic community. His name appears in the context of the return from the Babylonian exile, a significant period in Israel's history when the Jewish people were allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple under the decree of Cyrus, the Persian king. Biblical References: Sheal is mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah, which details the efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls and restore the community's spiritual and social life. The specific reference to Sheal can be found in Nehemiah 3:25, where he is listed among those who participated in the reconstruction efforts. Nehemiah 3:25 : "Palal son of Uzai worked opposite the Angle and the tower that juts out from the upper palace by the courtyard of the guard. Next to him, Pedaiah son of Parosh, and the temple servants living on the hill of Ophel made repairs up to a point opposite the Water Gate toward the east and the projecting tower." Historical and Cultural Context: The mention of Sheal occurs during the time when Nehemiah, serving as the governor of Judah, led the third return of exiles from Babylon. This period is marked by a strong emphasis on community restoration, both physically and spiritually. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls was not only a practical necessity for protection but also a symbolic act of re-establishing the identity and faith of the Jewish people. Role and Significance: While the biblical text does not provide extensive details about Sheal's personal life or specific contributions, his inclusion in the list of builders highlights the collective effort and unity among the Israelites during this pivotal time. Each individual, regardless of their background or status, played a crucial role in the communal task of rebuilding and fortifying the city. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the account of Sheal and others involved in the reconstruction underscores themes of faithfulness, obedience, and communal responsibility. The rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls serves as a metaphor for spiritual renewal and the importance of adhering to God's covenant. It reflects the belief that God works through His people to accomplish His purposes, often using ordinary individuals to fulfill His divine plan. Conclusion: Sheal's mention in the Book of Nehemiah, though brief, is part of a larger narrative that emphasizes the restoration of God's people and their dedication to His commands. His participation in the rebuilding efforts is a testament to the collective commitment of the Israelites to restore their homeland and their faith. Smith's Bible Dictionary Sheal(asking), one of the sons of Bani who had married a foreign wife. (Ezra 10:29) (B.C. 452.) Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Same as Sheeling.2. (v. t.) To put under a sheal or shelter. 3. (v. t.) To take the husks or pods off from; to shell; to empty of its contents, as a husk or a pod. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia SHEALshe'-al (she'al, "request"): One of the Israelites of the sons of Bani who had taken foreign wives (Ezra 10:29, Septuagint: Salouia; Septuagint, Lucian, Assael; 1Es 9:30, "Jasaelus"). Strong's Hebrew 7594. Sheal -- an Israelite with a foreign wife... 7593, 7594. Sheal. 7595 . an Israelite with a foreign wife. Transliteration: Sheal Phonetic Spelling: (sheh-awl') Short Definition: Sheal. ... /hebrew/7594.htm - 6k Thesaurus Sheal (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) Same as Sheeling. 2. (vt) To put under a sheal or shelter. ... 4. (n.) A shell or pod. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SHEAL. ... /s/sheal.htm - 7k Sheal'tiel (1 Occurrence) She'al (1 Occurrence) She-al'ti-el (10 Occurrences) Shealtiel (12 Occurrences) Sheaf (11 Occurrences) Jasael Jasaelus Jer'emoth (8 Occurrences) Jashub (5 Occurrences) Resources Sheal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sheal (1 Occurrence)Ezra 10:29 Subtopics Sheal: A Descendant of Bani, Who Put Away (Divorced) his Gentile Wife Related Terms |