Sherezer is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Zechariah. His name appears in the context of a delegation sent to seek guidance from the prophets regarding religious observance. The name "Sherezer" is of Assyrian origin, meaning "Protect the King," which reflects the cultural and historical influences present during the period of the Babylonian exile and subsequent return.

Biblical Reference:

Sherezer is mentioned in Zechariah 7:2, which states: "Now the people of Bethel had sent Sharezer and Regem-Melech, along with their men, to plead for the LORD’s favor" . This verse situates Sherezer within a narrative where the people of Bethel are seeking divine guidance on whether to continue fasting and mourning as they had done during the years of exile.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The mention of Sherezer occurs during the post-exilic period, a time when the Jewish people were returning from Babylonian captivity and rebuilding their society and religious practices. The delegation, including Sherezer, was sent to inquire about the observance of fasts that commemorated the destruction of the temple and other calamities. This reflects the broader theme of re-establishing religious identity and practice in the context of restoration and renewal.

Theological Significance:

The inquiry made by Sherezer and his companions highlights a significant theological question regarding the nature of religious observance and the heart of worship. The response from Zechariah emphasizes that true worship is not merely about ritualistic practices but involves justice, mercy, and obedience to God's commands. Zechariah 7:9-10 states: "Thus says the LORD of Hosts: 'Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil in your hearts against one another.'"

Role in the Narrative:

Sherezer's role in the narrative serves as a catalyst for a prophetic message that calls the people to examine their motives and the authenticity of their worship. The delegation's question provides an opportunity for the prophet Zechariah to address the community's spiritual condition and to redirect their focus from mere ritual to genuine devotion and ethical living.

Linguistic Notes:

The name Sherezer, as mentioned earlier, is of Assyrian origin, which is indicative of the diverse cultural influences present during the time of the exile. This reflects the historical reality of the Jewish people living under foreign rule and the integration of different cultural elements into their society.

In summary, Sherezer is a figure whose mention in the Book of Zechariah serves as a focal point for discussing the nature of true worship and the importance of aligning religious practices with the ethical and moral demands of the covenant relationship with God. His presence in the text underscores the ongoing process of spiritual renewal and the re-establishment of a faithful community in the post-exilic period.Sherezer

(prince of fire), one of the people's messengers mentioned in (Zechariah 7:2)

One of the messengers whom the children of the Captivity sent to Jerusalem "to pray for them before the Lord" (Zechariah 7:2). SHEREZER

she-re'-zer (Zechariah 7:2 the King James Version).

See SHAREZER.

Sherezer (1 Occurrence)
... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SHEREZER. she-re'-zer (Zechariah 7:2 the King James
Version). See SHAREZER. Multi-Version Concordance Sherezer (1 Occurrence). ...
/s/sherezer.htm - 7k

Sherghat

/s/sherghat.htm - 12k

Regemmelech (1 Occurrence)
... Regemmelech (1 Occurrence). Zechariah 7:2 When they had sent unto the house of God
Sherezer and Regemmelech, and their men, to pray before the LORD, (KJV NAS). ...
/r/regemmelech.htm - 7k

Reg'em-mel'ech (1 Occurrence)
... Reg'em-mel'ech (1 Occurrence). Zechariah 7:2 And Beth-El sendeth Sherezer and
Regem-Melech, and its men, to appease the face of Jehovah, (See RSV). ...
/r/reg'em-mel'ech.htm - 6k

Appease (11 Occurrences)
... (See NAS). Zechariah 7:2 And Beth-El sendeth Sherezer and Regem-Melech, and
its men, to appease the face of Jehovah, (YLT). Zechariah ...
/a/appease.htm - 10k

Sheresh (1 Occurrence)

/s/sheresh.htm - 7k

Supplicate (8 Occurrences)
... souls. (DBY). Zechariah 7:2 when Bethel had sent Sherezer and Regem-melech,
and his men, to supplicate Jehovah, (DBY). Zechariah 8 ...
/s/supplicate.htm - 9k

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